District 19 is somewhat unique in that there are Toastmasters clubs in Department of Corrections facilities. These facilities include halfway houses up to prisons. Toastmasters is seen as a factor in reducing the recidivism rate for those that participate in a club by helping them communicate more productively while incarcerated, but also by gaining needed skills for communicating when they are released.
Here is an article on a prison club in Idaho that is similar to Iowa clubs. http://www.eastidahonews.com/2016/07/female-inmates-drastically-improve-speech-program/
Also on YouTube:
If you are interested in helping with a current District 19 Department of Corrections facility club, helping start a new one, or would just be interested in more information, please contact Don Wadleigh, District 19 Prison Club Committee Chair, at any of the following:
- P.O. Box 425, Oquawka IL 61469
- [email protected]
- 630-728-3545.