It’s been a busy fall season for all five clubs in Area 42.

There has been a focus on building memberships and creating a sense of comradery. Get this – U of W Toastmasters has a returning member from 10 years ago. How’s that for loyalty? It’s all about being an active member, as well as visiting your neighbouring clubs.

The word is out – Area 42 Toastmasters can attend up to four meetings a week at the noon hour. Our clubs are all within walking distance of the downtown core. All five clubs take a different spin on a meeting focus, so meetings are always exciting. With the completion of manuals on the minds of Area 42 Toastmasters, this is a great way to accomplish this goal.

Some recent initiatives within the clubs is also sparking a renewed vigour and interest in the Toastmasters program. First, in response to an increase in formal speeches, Licensed To Speak is introducing the “Speech Blitz” which aims to showcase speeches only. With this new initiative, they hope to broaden the opportunities for their membership to advance through their development manuals at a pace that matches the demand. The Forks Toastmasters welcomes an ‘International’ speaker to every other meeting. They also hold a roundtable evaluation ensures everyone gets a chance to speak.

Next up – moving beyond comradery and into rivalry (what’s wrong with a little competition?)

–
Paul Graveline
Area 42 Director