Toastmasters District 26 is celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2018, having provided quality communication and leadership development to thousands of members from all walks of life in communities and corporations within Colorado, Wyoming and the western part of Nebraska.
On September 19, 1948, District 26 was formed with 16 clubs scattered throughout the District to include the District’s oldest club, Pioneer Toastmasters, Club #97 of Casper, Wyoming, which is one of three historic clubs that were formed before the District was chartered and remain active to this day. Oldest Clubs chart – District 26
“It is such an honor to be a part of this significant milestone and monumental event. The success of this incredible district and the lives touched by Toastmasters over seven decades are countless,” says District 26 Director Marcia Wood.
70 years of District service to three states are the result of intense professional activity, positive initiatives and exciting projects, all of which were accomplished together with our highly-valued former and current Toastmasters. Many former and current toastmasters who started their journey in the organization have credited District 26’s role in their past and current success in their careers and personal lives as leaders of local, national and international private companies, non-profits, civic groups, and public institutions.
Without a doubt, the experience gained by being affiliated with District 26 has enabled them to achieve great success in their professional and personal lives.
Today, District 26 continues to expand and has grown significantly with nearly 200 clubs, 43 Areas, 8 Divisions, and a membership of nearly 4,000 developing toastmasters having a positive impact in their careers, communities, schools, special events and anywhere else that calls for great leadership and communication skills.
“So many of our members have gained the ability to influence, inspire and change lives with the leadership and communication skills acquired through their toastmasters experience. The supportive learning environment we provide enables anyone to unlock their true potential within and find their voice. Our commitment to the success of everyone who joins the organization is just as it was when the District was formed,” Wood said.
District 26 is a part of the Toastmasters International organization which has more than 357,000 members belonging to 16,600 clubs in 143 countries.
Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper and Denver Mayor Michael Hancock recognized the remarkable milestone with formal proclamations, congratulating District 26 for its achievements and impact in Colorado and abroad.
Happy 70th anniversary, District 26! We raise our glasses high to all members, past and present, who have been instrumental in the district’s success. Here’s to many more years!
Darryle Brown, MBA, DTM, PDD
