District WhatsApp Group Rules

The District 71 team supports a set of WhatsApp groups designed to foster connection, collaboration and mutual support as we work together to empower our clubs and members.

All members of District 71 are welcome to join this community. Some groups within the community are open to all, and others are by invitation-only as they are for people with specific roles and responsibilities.

Participants in all District 71 discussion groups are required to follow these Community Rules & Guidelines:

1. Guided by Our Core Values

All communication in this group should reflect Toastmasters International’s four core values:

• Integrity – Be honest, transparent, and ethical in all discussions.
• Respect – Appreciate differing views and be courteous at all times.
• Service – Offer assistance, advice, and support where possible.
• Excellence – Communicate purposefully and aim for quality in every message.

2. Purpose of This Group

These groups are for:

• Sharing ideas, resources, and best practices between members, club officers and District leaders
• Asking for advice or support related to your membership or role as a club officer or District leader
• Updates and announcements from District 71 leadership

Please avoid:

• Off-topic messages, memes, or jokes
• Forwarded chain messages
• Unsolicited promotions
• Personal or sensitive club matters (best addressed privately)
• Posting about meetings and events, other than educational events sponsored by the District
  • There is a specific group called “D71 You’re Invited” where clubs, Areas and Divisions can share information about upcoming special events that are likely to be of interest to a large number of Toastmasters in the District

3. Be Courteous and Professional

• Use a friendly, professional tone in all messages
• Be inclusive and constructive—even in disagreement
• Assume positive intent and avoid public criticism

4. Keep Messages Clear and Focused

• If possible, post during reasonable hours (8am–9pm)
  • For reference: guide on how to limit notifications on iPhone
  • For reference: guide on how to limit notifications on Android
• Group messages should be purposeful and relevant to all
• For individual matters, please message the relevant person privately

5. Moderation Policy

Each group is administrated by a set of moderators, including members of the District Executive Committee.

To maintain a positive and inclusive space, we ask that all members observe these guidelines. Moderators may:

• Issue a gentle reminder for inappropriate or off-topic content
• Delete messages that do not comply with these guidelines
• Mute or remove participants if guidelines are repeatedly breached

All moderation will be conducted in line with Toastmasters International values and District 71’s commitment to fairness and respect.

Thank you for being an active and supportive leader in District 71!

Together, we continue to build stronger clubs, confident leaders, and exceptional member experiences.