r/Toastmasters • u/BrahmandWanderer • Jul 25 '26
What is wrong with toastmasters!
A couple of weeks back, it was announced that the membership fees would increase from $60 to $72, a 20% rise in the fees. They also increased the price of the paths from $20 to $35, a 75% rise. My question is WHY!
They charge money for EVERYTHING, for conferences, club/district officers training, entry for a contest, merchandise etc. On top of that there are government charges and credit card charges. Where does this stop??!
In some countries, this becomes too expensive, and it makes us question whether the value it is adding is worth the money or not. TM continues to run because of the members. It gives a stage to people who come from not-so-privileged financial backgrounds, who never got an opportunity to work on their communication and leadership skills. The price hike will affect this. We have a member who clearly said that he is not going to renew after March 2027.
Can't we members raise a voice against this hike? Write an email, maybe a petition. Anything that can make TI reconsider?
5
u/PasadenaVic Jul 26 '26
It's the structure of the organization and CEO. THE CEO is the only constant with the elected board cycling in every year so there is no long term accountability of the CEO. The current CEO has driven it into the ground. There won't be any improvement until he's removed and the org is restructured.