Ralph C. Smedley Memorial Fund
Donate as an Organization
Nearly a century ago, Dr. Ralph Smedley had a vision of how he could help you and millions more learn communication and leadership skills in a positive and supportive environment. In 1965, the Ralph C. Smedley Memorial Fund® ("Smedley Fund") was established to honor and uphold that legacy, and to open doors for the many millions of potential Toastmasters yet to come.
Fifty years later, the educational needs of individuals have evolved and multiplied. Though the historic fund had humble beginnings with a local impact, the reinvigorated Smedley Fund retains its same purpose—the advancement of communication and leadership education through the research, development, and distribution of educational programs and materials.
Highlights of use
A Speech Evaluation Research Grant was established.
The development of a new leadership manual, at a cost of $15,000, was completed in 1992.
A pilot to develop a new youth program (Interpersonal Communication Manuals), not to exceed $150,000, was introduced.
View Smedley Report
How you can request funds
Programs such as the Youth Leadership Program help build the confidence of tomorrow's leaders. Your club or district can request funds to host a program in your local community.
Disasters may strike without warning and can massively impact the lives and livelihoods of those affected. Clubs or districts that have lost Toastmasters-related materials as a result of a disaster may request to be sent replacements at no charge.
Request Relief
"People every place need to grow—as speakers, as leaders, as men and women of influence, and the Fund is a way to funnel monetary resources where our organization really needs them."
Michael Notaro, DTM,
2011-2012 International President
Endless ways to give
Honorary or memorial gifts
Honor an individual or occasion by donating on another's behalf.
Set up a convenient monthly, quarterly, semiannual or annual gift.
Planned estate gifts
Plan a future contribution through your estate plans, such as making a bequest by including language in your will or living trust.
Ask your employer if they have a matching gift program to double your contribution.
Help make a difference today!
Contributor recognition
Individual contributors
All individual contributors will receive a contributor ribbon. Those giving $1,000 USD or more in cumulative lifetime gifts (accruing from January 1, 2016) will receive a contributor lapel pin.
Club contributors
All club contributors will receive a 24-inch banner ribbon. Those giving $1,000 USD or more in cumulative lifetime gifts (accruing from January 1, 2016) will receive an engraved trophy.
All contributing companies, foundations and organizations will receive an engraved plaque, with those giving $1,000 USD or more in cumulative lifetime gifts (accruing from January 1, 2016) will receive an engraved crystal.
View Past Contributors
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