Voices

CPE Members Speak

Overcoming Fear…

I have been in situations where I had something I desperately wanted to say in a group, but just couldn’t bring myself to speak.  If there were more than a handful of people, and if I didn’t know them all really well, I couldn’t do it.  I joined Toastmasters to face, and hopefully overcome this fear and much to my surprise, I actually love the experience.  I now realize I don’t have to be perfect.  Each time I speak I am more and more relaxed, and each time I have more fun.  The confidence has translated to all aspects of my life, so I really can’t recommend TM enough. – Barb M.

 Confidence…

After a year’s involvement with Canyon Park Echoes, I feel much more confident about my speaking ability. I actually enjoying speaking in front of others now. As I change the focus of my speeches from “I am nervous” to “what can I share with this audience?”, my nervousness lessens and speaking is now a privilege, rather than a dreaded activity. Plus, the professional and friendly demeanor of the members of the Canyon Park Echoes make the weekly meetings enjoyable and encouraging.
~Barbara Swasey

Giving back…

Toastmasters impacts my life in two very important ways.  The first way is by helping me develop the self-confidence to speak in any manner of public speaking role.  Toastmasters has provided the tools and the people to help give me honest feedback for improvements and the venue to continue practicing.  The second way is by giving me an outlet to develop my need for participation in community outside of my family.  Through the local club meetings and the many opportunities for leadership throughout the entire organization, I can volunteer to help and really make a difference within the organization.  It feels really good to be able to give back to an organization and to the individuals that have so solidly supported my own development. ~Tony Morrison

I was very shy…

“I was very shy when I was young and would freeze if more than 2 of my friends were looking at me while I was talking.  I’ve said if I had to take a speaking class to graduate from high school, I wouldn’t have received my diploma until I was 35!  Coerced by a friend to join, I was a reluctant charter member of Voices of the MASes (later was renamed Canyon Park Echoes) Toastmasters Club.  Learning in the supportive environment of this club has taught me to be able to speak without panic in various circumstances, not just club meetings.  The leadership skills learned in Toastmasters have continued to help me in my job and as a volunteer outside work.  I have gone from being insecure and shy in any speaking circumstance to a self-assured and confident communicator who can handle almost any verbal situation.” – Jane D.

Toastmasters has truly changed my life…

“Toastmasters has truly changed my life – not over night – but by being an active member of the Canyon Park Echoes, I’ve gained the confidence to speak in front of others and accept more responsibility that I would have otherwise avoided out of fear of public speaking.” – Jeff M.

This club does it right…

“Toastmasters really surprised me.  I thought it was about giving speeches; turns out it is about friendship, leadership, and perhaps a little showmanship.  As an experienced speaker and corporate trainer, I thought it might not have much to offer me,   Surprise again!  And this club… does it right, makes it fun, week after week” – Randi H.