1 RUN A SUCCESSFUL SPEECH CONTEST SUMMARY: Participation in The NMA Leadership Speech Contest provides a unique opportunity for a chapter to support its community and members. The best and brightest of their high school age students can be observed in colorful competitions that will improve their oratory skills and enhance their knowledge of the various aspects of leadership. Successful chapter contestants qualify for further competitions at the Council, Leadership Development Conference (LDC) and National Levels. The 1 st Place winner at the final competition receives a $4,000 cash prize. Moreover, participation is easy if a chapter follows the steps in this QuickTool. The contest is open to high school students in grades 9-12, including home-schooled students. Chapters are encouraged to contact local home schooled students because more of them are participating in the Speech Contest. FUNDING: While many small chapters may feel that such participation is beyond their financial means, there are numerous methods a chapter can pursue to raise the funds needed to support their competition and awards, such as: 1. The sale of Entertainment Books available from or call (888) These books provide valuable discounts for local dining, entertainment and other services, and will earn a chapter $6-8 for every book sold. 2. The sale of customized bears available from Plushland, Inc. at or by calling (888) These bears can be bought for $5 each in quantities of 72 with free shipping, will earn a chapter $2.50 for every bear sold and will go fast. 3. The sale of used books (typically 0.50 for paperbacks and $1 for hardbacks) and videos (typically $2) contributed by their members, and displayed in a local cafeteria using a collection jar and honor system for payment. Other fundraisers could include discounted jewelry and book sales where local vendors come in to showcase their wares, with a percentage of sales going to the sponsoring chapter. REQUIREMENTS: Resource requirements for the chapter speech contest include coverage of the winners travel to council and LDC Level competitions, and the cost of the contestant awards. The number of awards are selected by the chapter (but typically are 3 or fewer), and the chapter awards can range from certificates to small gifts or cash. However, the value of a chapter 1 st Place award should not exceed $300. Chapter volunteer hours to manage and conduct the speech contest competition typically range from hours total. PROCESS: Chapter Level contests are typically conducted in late January – mid March to allow the winners to compete in subsequent Council and LDC Level competitions. The NMA Leadership Speech Contest Planning Guide contains valuable information on conducting the contest including downloadable forms, sample letters, a sample script, and detailed checklists. Early appointment of a Speech Contest Chair and Director, along with several volunteers to work with the contestants and judges, is a key step here. Rev QuickTool 1