I was being asked to speak for preservation issues, since I was on the neighborhood board of a Conservation District. I was very nervous about speaking, felt I never did well, and sometimes was shaking in reaction after I spoke. I realized I had to do something!

I was worried mostly about finding the time, but I very soon discovered that it was WORTH the time; besides, since it was a dinner meeting, it really didn’t take that much time out of my usual evening. I was also just a little worried about what the meeting would be like – would it be all proper and stuffy? Would it be like a school room? Would it be impersonal and tedious?

I was amazed at how much fun the meeting was! Everyone was funny, open, and welcoming, but there was a structure which showed that learning was happening within all the fun.

In my first meeting I learned more about becoming a better speaker than I’d known in my whole life before!

A convenient time and location, plus the fun, welcoming, fascinating atmosphere, got me to join almost immediately. I didn’t even check out any other clubs.

It is SO MUCH MORE FUN! And, the learning and improvement never stops! What’s even more amazing is the mentorship and support that one finds in this organization, and the joy in seeing and helping someone to flourish!

Self-confidence and the ability to say what I want/need to say, and to encourage others.

Toastmasters will allow you to gain the skills and self confidence to do what you want to do, and you’ll have a blast while you learn! The Toastmasters program teaches you leadership and communication by practice and feedback, in a structured, supportive, and fun environment.

Big "D" TMs is a thriving, diverse, active, well-attended club with high-energy meetings. The depth of history in this club provides a solid core of strength and tradition to the meetings. You will meet an amazing group of people who will all become good friends as you and they help each other to improve your communication and leadership skills. You’ll have the opportunity to grow at your own pace, see examples of all the different levels of growth available to you in this organization, and enlarge your social circle with a bunch of positive, encouraging people!

Personal life – I am no longer hesitant to express myself, and I know that I can say what I want to say in a manner that should be engaging and informative to the listeners.

Professional life – Toastmasters gave me the confidence to become a freelancer, and later, to step back in to a full-time job as a senior and respected professional who is always willing to step up and lead or present.