Ralph C. Smedley Memorial Fund

Smedley Fund

You Can Make a Difference

About the Fund

Nearly a century ago, Dr. Ralph Smedley had a vision of helping people 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

August 2-3, 1971

A Speech Evaluation Research Grant was established.

1971

August 12-13, 1991

The development of a new leadership manual, at a cost of 15,000, was completed in 1992.

1991

August 21-23, 2006

A pilot to develop a new youth program (Interpersonal Communication Manuals), not to exceed 150,000, was introduced.

2006

View Smedley report

How You Can Request Funds

Youth Outreach

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.

Request support

Open Hand on an Envelope with a Globe in the Background

Emergency Relief

Disasters often 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.

Recurring Gifts

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.

Corporate Matching Gifts

Ask your employer if they have a matching gift program to double your contribution.

Help make a difference today!

Donate as an individual

Donate as an organization

Contributor Recognition

Smedley Fund Contributor Pins, Notebook and a Pen

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.

Smedley Fund Contributor Ribbon, Notebook, Documents and a Pen

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.

Smedley Fund Contributor Engraved Trophy, Notebook and a Pen

Corporate Contributors

All contributing companies, foundations and organizations will receive an engraved plaque. Those giving $1,000 USD or more in cumulative lifetime gifts (accruing from January 1, 2016) will receive an engraved crystal.

View past contributors