Toastmasters is regarded as the leading organization dedicated to communication and leadership skill development, boasting more than 332,000 members in 135 countries. The new Cause Driven Toastmasters Club in Urbana, a chapter of Toastmasters International, is just one of the more than 16,000 clubs located around the world and is looking for members.
Toastmasters encourages growth, personally and professionally. It is a group of lifelong learners who believe in learning by doing. Whether an executive or a stay-at-home parent, a college student or a retiree, improve life and build skills to express yourself in a variety of situations. Give better work presentations; lead meetings – and participate in them – more confidently; speak more smoothly off the cuff; handle one-on-one interactions with family, friends and colleagues more positively.
Zac Fiely, Financial Advisor for Edward Jones and one of the charter members of the Urbana club, said, “The environment in our Toastmasters club is very friendly, fun and supportive. We strive to make everyone feel welcome and valued – from complete beginners to advanced speakers.”
In a club meeting, when you’re ready, you practice giving prepared speeches as well as brief impromptu presentations, known as Table Topics. There is no rush and no pressure: The Toastmasters program allows you to progress at your own pace.
Constructive evaluation is central to the Toastmasters philosophy. Each time you give a prepared speech, an evaluator will highlight strengths as well as make suggestions; encouragement and improvement go hand-in-hand.
Want to be better at negotiating your salary with your boss? Networking at business or social functions? Motivating co-workers – or your kids? Attend a meeting to see what Toastmasters is all about. Meetings are held in the Champaign Family YMCA Leadership Room at 191 Community Drive, Urbana, every Friday (excluding holidays) from noon to 1 p.m.
For more info on the Cause Driven Toastmasters Club, contact Greg Hower at the Champaign Family YMCA at 937-653-9622
