Dearborn Dynamic Toastmasters

Comments from our members about their experiences in Toastmasters

• “I joined Toastmasters about three years ago. I couldn’t have made a better move. It has been fun, rewarding, and challenging. I was already a pretty good speaker when I joined, but I am much better now. I belong to two clubs and have competed in many speaking contests. I would recommend Toastmasters to anyone. Who can benefit from Toastmasters? Everyone.” – Cliff Suttle”
• Fifteen years ago, after graduating from college, I quit my job in anticipation of finding another rather quickly. Little did I know that I would be unemployed for the next eight months. As time passed without a new job, my self-confidence waned. I had to take action. My husband had joined Toastmasters at his bosses’ suggestion to improve his communication and leadership skills. It seemed to be working for him. I have to admit I went to my first meeting out of both curiosity and desperation. I have never regretted it. “I immediately began to regain my self-confidence and within two months after joining I had a new job at nearly twice my former salary. I have progressed through both the communication and leadership parts of the Toastmasters program several times and I still learn from my fellow members at every meeting I attend. A Toastmaster meeting is a workshop where members improve their impromptu speaking skills, refine their speaking skills, develop the ability to prepare a variety of speeches and have the opportunity to take part in the organization’s leadership. I have used my skills both inside and outside the organization and I cannot imagine what my life would have been like without Toastmasters. I will remain a member for many years to come. – Marilyn Albee
• “I have been a member of Toastmasters for about a year and a half. Like most folks when they join Toastmasters , they are not comfortable getting up and speaking in front of people. On my first speech, I had a large number of ahs, uhms, and ands. Since then, I am much more comfortable getting up in front of the club. With the guidance and direction from my mentor and other club members, I have become much more aware of what I say, and how I say it. My last few speeches have been given “off the cuff” with just an idea in my head. You might say, it came from the heart. I have received 6 blue ribbons for best speaker out of the 10 speeches I have given. It really has given me a great feeling of accomplishment. With my having given 10 speeches, I have earned the designation of Competent Toastmaster (CTM). I am also able to give an invocation & closing prayer off the cuff; I couldn’t do this before getting into Toastmasters. Even my boss has noticed the difference in me since joining. To quote the saying, “I’ve come a long way baby!” – Gretchen Vroman