If you are active in a community group (church, hobby club, charitable association, professional group, etc), you can ask to be a speaker on the group's agenda at an upcoming meeting. Using talk points provided by TLC, you can tell your story, provide Information , and answer any questions. This will educate dozens of people, who will take away a greater understanding of trich and its challenges.

1. Think about what audience you want to speak to.

Possible audiences include: A club you're active in (crafts, gardening, politics, etc.), service association you are a member of (Rotary, Lion's, Junior League, etc.), members of your religious community, coworkers.

2. Ask if the group will put you on their schedule of speakers.

Ask how much time you will be given to make your presentation, and ask to set a date on their calendar. In order to speak during All Join Hands (October 1-8, 2006), call as early as possible to arrange your speaking engagement.

3. Based on your audience, select the materials you need TLC to provide.

These materials can include: brochures for adults, brochures for kids, and brochures for clinicians treating children. You can also purchase a 12-minute DVD, "Straight from the Heart" about children with trich, or a 60-minute DVD, "Bad Hair Life," about living with trich.

4. Call TLC and we will send you appropriate materials for your audience. 

We can also provide talking points designed especially for each audience.

5. Prepare for your presentation.

Familiarize yourself with the materials you will be passing out or viewing. Make sure any audio-visual equipment that you need will be available.

6. Confirm your speaking date two weeks beforehand.

7. Make your presentation!

Pass out any educational materials and ask anyone who is interested to join the TLC mailing list on the provided sign in sheet.

8. Fill out and return the feedback form to TLC. 

Let us know what went well, what could have gone better, and how we can better support you in the future.