Bryan Stalder
Contributor

After years of connecting virtually, Kansas City’s Bootstraps Toastmasters is taking a bold step forward—returning to in-person meetings starting Wednesday, October 22, at the Northeast Kansas City Chamber of Commerce (2657 Independence Avenue).

Founded under the umbrella of Toastmasters International, Bootstraps Toastmasters has long been a vital space for community members to develop public speaking, leadership, and communication skills in a supportive, judgment-free environment. The club, like many others around the world, shifted to online-only meetings at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020. Since then, Bootstraps has continued to meet consistently via Zoom, offering an accessible space for growth and connection—even from a distance.

Now, more than five years later, the club is embracing a new hybrid future, starting with their October 22 meeting at 12:05 p.m., which marks a symbolic return to face-to-face connection. The club plans to continue offering virtual meetings for those who prefer to attend online, and will keep members informed as they transition to a permanent in-person schedule.

“Our community has a voice—but so many don’t know how to use their voice,” says longtime member and community advocate Bobbi Baker. “This is an opportunity to start learning.”

Bootstraps Toastmasters meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month from 12:05 to 1:00 p.m., providing a midday space for professionals, job seekers, students, and aspiring leaders to practice their speaking and leadership skills.

In the meantime, the club is also hosting its popular Bootstraps Café, an informal pre- and post-meeting gathering space on Zoom where members can grab coffee and casually connect, helping build relationships outside of the formal meeting structure.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your interviewing skills, become a better presenter, or grow as a leader, Toastmasters offers a proven, structured program to help you meet your goals. And with Bootstraps, you’ll find a warm, inclusive community ready to support your journey.

Upcoming Events:

October 22, 2025 – In-person & virtual meeting, 12:05 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Northeast Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, 2657 Independence Ave
Zoom Link: Join Here | Passcode: 950610

November 11, 2025 – Toastmasters Urban Hike, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Meet at the Southeast corner of Independence Avenue and Chestnut Ave.