At the dawn of the new millennium Herb Masters, a veteran of the Skeptics' Toolbox, issued a challenge to fellow skeptics. The challenge was simple: bring a friend to the Toolbox, or sponsor a student to attend. Help raise awareness of skepticism by introducing new people to the benefits of critical thinking towards paranormal and pseudoscientific claims.

In his own words, Herb Masters, explains:

"If you have a problem to fix or adjust you can take only the tool you think you will need. I have found that a problem is seldom so simple. A burned out light bulb is not a problem. Finding out why one circuit breaker keeps tripping may be a problem. In this world of incredible claims, and resulting poor decisions, I need lots of mental tools.

One place I go to get these tools is the Skeptic's Toolbox in Eugene, Oregon. If you have been there you probably know how invigorating and, dare I say, "enlightening" it can be.

I think we need to promote critical thinking. We need to get more people really thinking and analyzing claims of the paranormal and other misinformed ideas. One of my favorite ways is to bring new participants to the Skeptic's Toolbox.

I challenge all of you to introduce one of your friends to us. If you can't do this consider sponsoring someone to attend this workshop. If you are unable to find a worthy candidate yourself, contact CSICOP and they will work with you to make sure your generosity helps advance our goals."

Since issuing the Masters Challenge in 2001, The Skeptic's Toolbox has welcomed many new participants. Several attendees have been provided scholarships through CSI, local community groups, and many generous individuals. Newcomers have been sponsored through complimentary tuition or help with traveling expenses and accommodations. Most notably, people attending through the Masters Challenge have returned year after year.