New to our club? Here’s what to expect before you walk through the door, no pressure, no surprises.
Can I visit for free?
Yes — visitors are always welcome, and there’s never a cost to visit. Come as a guest as many times as you like before deciding whether to join.
When and where do you meet?
- When – 2nd & 4th Tuesday of each month, 7:00 PM
- Where – Bowie Senior Center, 14900 Health Center Dr, Bowie, MD 20716
The Senior Center is open until 8:30 PM, so meetings wrap up with time to spare.
Do you meet in person, online, or both?
We meet in person at the Bowie Senior Center. We also offer a hybrid/Zoom option, when certain occasions occur ( e.g. Weather)
Do I need to RSVP?
You’re welcome to just walk in — no RSVP required. If you’d like to give a heads-up first, you can reach out to us on the contact page.
What happens at a typical meeting?
A typical meeting has three main parts:
Prepared speeches — members deliver short talks they’ve practiced as part of their Pathways learning journey.
Table Topics — a fun, impromptu segment where members (and willing guests) answer a surprise question in one or two minutes.
Evaluations — members give warm, constructive feedback so everyone keeps improving. The whole meeting is supportive and low-pressure.
Do I have to speak if I visit?
Not at all. As a visitor, you’ll only be asked to briefly introduce yourself.
During Table Topics — our impromptu speaking segment, we’ll always ask your permission first before inviting you to speak from the lectern. The choice is entirely yours.
What should I wear?
Come as you are! Most members dress business casual, but there’s no dress code for visitors.
Can anyone be a Member?
As long as you are at least 18 years old, you can join Toastmasters.
How much does it cost?
Membership dues are billed semi-annually (every six months):
Prefer to go all in? You can also pay for a full year up front ($174) and invest in yourself for the next 12 months.
New members pay a one-time $20 New Member Fee that covers your initial setup and your first Pathway.
It’s a solid investment in the speaker you want to become, and it pays dividends long after the dues are due.
What is Pathways?
Pathways is Toastmasters International’s learning curriculum. It’s an online program that lets you build communication and leadership skills at your own pace, choosing a “path” that matches your personal goals. Your first Pathway is included in the New Member Fee.
Is there a mentor for new Members
Yes, new members are paired with an experienced mentor who helps you get comfortable, plan your first speeches, and make the most of Pathways.
Time Commitment
Meetings are twice a month, and members typically spend a little time between meetings preparing a speech or a role. It’s designed to fit around a busy schedule — you get out of it what you put in, and there’s no penalty for attending as your time allows.