Requesting Speakers

How to Bring Speakers to Your Community

Bringing a Speaking Tour speaker to your lodge requires planning and coordination. This lesson covers the process from initial request through successful event completion.

The Request Process

1. Identify your need and audience
2. Contact your State DAP Chair
3. Discuss available speakers and dates
4. Confirm budget and logistics
5. Formally request through proper channels

Planning Considerations

Audience

• Who is the target audience?
• What size audience can you gather?
• Is this a school, community, or lodge event?
• What message resonates best with this group?

Timing

• Allow 6-12 weeks lead time minimum
• Consider school calendars and schedules
• Avoid conflicts with major events
• Think about when your audience is most available

Venue

• Can accommodate expected attendance
• Has appropriate audio/visual equipment
• Accessible location
• Appropriate for the audience (school vs. community)

Budget and Costs

Typical costs may include:

• Speaker honorarium (varies)
• Travel and lodging
• Venue rental (if not using lodge or school)
• Promotion and marketing
• Refreshments

Funding Sources

• Lodge DAP budget
• State DAP support
• Grants from ENF
• Community sponsors
• Shared costs with partner organizations

Working with Your State Chair

Your State Chair can help with:

• Connecting you with available speakers
• Coordinating with other lodges for joint events
• Accessing state-level funding
• Promoting the event statewide
• Providing guidance on logistics

School Presentations

Getting School Approval

• Work with school administration, not just teachers
• Provide information about the speaker and content
• Address any concerns about sensitive topics
• Offer to have administration preview the presentation

School Logistics

• Confirm date and time with school calendar
• Arrange for appropriate venue (gym, auditorium)
• Coordinate with school AV staff
• Plan for student supervision