I joined Toastmasters back in 2008 at the request of my husband Claude Stevens.  My husband was a member of Toastmasters for several years prior and he decided that it would be a great couple’s activity for the two of us.  He invited me to join him at an International Speech contest in Roanoke Virginia.  There, I heard many outstanding speakers, and I noticed that their speaking abilities were captivating.   I started visiting clubs and joined one that has helped me in many ways.  The club members offered a lot of support and instruction to me as a very terrified newcomer.  Their support was instrumental in me completing my Ice Breaker speech.  When I found out that I had to write a speech about myself and then read it to the group!!! I thought I was going to faint from fear, but that changed.     After completing about 7 or 8 speeches, I got more comfortable.  After a little nudging from some of the more seasoned members of the club, I started volunteering for meeting and leadership roles within the club.  As usual, the Club members supported me all the way.  The Toastmasters mission is to “empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders.”  The club its mission is “to provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth.”  I have certainly received this as a member of Toastmasters.  Along the way, I also received many trophies and awards for speech contest participation.

The next natural question is why do I stay? I stayed as a member of Toastmaster because it continues to challenge me in many ways.  First, Pathways is a computer based program that stretches me to learn about podcasts, blogging, and so much more.   I am a baby boomer.  We are not supposed to like change let alone new technology.  I learned to embrace the new Pathways materials and technology platform, and truly find it all very exciting.  There are so many opportunities for personal growth with Toastmasters. 

I also still enjoy meeting with and listening to extraordinary communicators.  Now that the COVID-19 Pandemic has opened up the opportunity for virtual meetings via Zoom, I can attend meetings and listen to speeches from anywhere in world without having to travel.  Recently I attended a meeting in Pennsylvania from my dining room table.  How great is that?  

Lastly, my communication skills are always a work in progress, and I am learning new leadership techniques (such as using the 12-week year planning tool from District Director Maggie Geoghegan).  How great is that?  I would not have this information if I were only driving to the grocery store every week or watching sitting at home watching Jeopardy with Lamar Burton.  My advice is to open your eyes to all of the great benefits that the Toastmaster product has for its members.   Where else can you develop communication and leaderships skills resulting in a better you at such an affordable price?   

Martha