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FROM THE DESK
Consider the
Area Director
Dave Bones, DTM
Club Growth Director
I wonder if you can relate to the following scenarios
with your Club, or someone you know: You have a be when your Vice President Education is unclear
brand new Vice President Education who is unclear how to fulfill duties as a Base Camp Manager (BCM)
how to keep track of member education process, in Pathways. Your AD could refer you to the District
and what it means to be a “Base Camp Manager” 7 Pathways Learning Center . There is a 14.5 minute
in Pathways. Or maybe the President is newer, and video that provides most of the information needed
has questions about how to conduct Club Executive by new BCMs. Upon request, your AD may be able
Committee Meetings. Finally, maybe you are in to conduct a general Pathways tutoring session or
a more experienced Club, but just need general bring in another presenter.
Toastmasters support. Third, the AD can provide objective feedback
The good news is that there are answers to all during their Area Director Club Visit which happens
the above and much more. This is the relationship twice a year, once between July and November and
with your District Area Director (AD). The AD is again between January and May. The AD's reports
the liaison between your Club, the District, and the recognize what your Club does well and offers
Toastmasters brand. The foundation for this begins supportive suggestions on how to enhance the
with the Area Director Club visit. In this article, Club experience. These metrics are based on key
you will learn more about the specific benefits of factors designed to increase membership, augment
Area Director visits for your Club. member satisfaction, and retention.
Here are three reasons to rely on your AD: If your AD hasn't contacted your Club yet,
First, your AD is a trusted advisor. Each AD invite them to visit. Don't know who they are? You
typically has experience as a Club officer and can find their contact information on the District
general knowledge of each role. When the AD does 7 website by clicking here. Consider your AD as a
not have the answer to a question, they can help trusted advisor to help with your Club's needs. As
you find the answers. with everything "Toastmasters," you are not alone.
Second, your AD can also be a mentor, coach or Your AD is there for you and to help your Club be
refer your question on as needed. An example could successful.
16 ONE COMMUNITY