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FROM THE DESK

Community through Contribution

Dave Bones, DTM - Club Growth Director

What are some of your favorite aspects within are the number one way to learn how to do this.

Toastmasters? Is it developing more confidence Prior to Toastmasters, many of us were familiar
and overcoming a fear of public speaking? Perhaps with a “critique.” But a Toastmasters evaluation is
your motivation is in communication, leadership, so much more than a list of things done wrong.

or other presentation skills for a promotion or Offering validation of a member’s strengths,
other career opportunity. Finally, it could be that as well as direction to positively enhance a
you joined just to meet new friends! presentation, demonstrates how we offer support
Another point to consider is what has in Toastmasters.

fundamentally enabled the longevity of this Second, having fun is critical for longer-term
international organization since 1924, and how to growth. This can be accomplished by coming
continue. Drawing from its mission statements, up with creative ideas for meeting planning or
as well as my own experience in Toastmasters, being willing to offer a good laugh while learning

I believe it is the value of community, with together.
contribution as its greatest means to accomplish Finally, Toastmasters offers a “testing ground”
this. to develop skills and take chances. It is when
A Toastmaster mentor of mine shared his we stretch that we grow. We develop further

thoughts about why someone joins and why a confidence through this process and face our
long-term member stays. He said that many join fears together.
for specific skills related to either professional Contribution is the other side of the coin to
or personal goals. As these goals are met, often building and maintaining our community. You

they continue to stay to continue practicing those might ask, how can I contribute? As a member,
skills, but also to help others on the same journey. knowing that every meeting is a team effort is so
I agree, another way of saying this is “growth helpful. When you attend meetings regularly or
is our common bond within our Toastmasters communicate if unable to attend on a given day,

community.” it makes a huge difference in your contribution
In my experience, this growth requires the to your Club.
following. If you are a Club officer, your leadership
First, a supportive environment—evaluations role is foundational to the success of your Club.

18 ONE COMMUNITY