MEMBER TESTIMONIALS
JEANIE G. DAVIS, MS2
I joined Toastmasters on the invitation of my daughter. Walking into that first meeting, I was greeted with such warmth and friendliness that I wanted to come back. As a retiree, I feel one is never too old to learn something new. I have never had a challenge with singing in front of groups of people, but speaking was entirely different. I found this was a great group of people to be involved with, to learn, grow and make friends. I am forever thankful that I walked in to my first meeting. You should too. (Singer, Retiree)
BRYAN LUMBRA, IP2
I found my way to Toastmasters because of a dedicated focus on my own personal growth. At 40 years old and working to finish my degree, I was required to complete a class on oral communications. The coursework used a lot of Toastmasters International videos. Curious to know what Toastmasters was all about I found a local club. It took me one meeting to realize that this was a group that I wanted to be a part of. The thought of writing and delivering speeches can be terrifying to me at times, but I sincerely feel that my Toastmasters meetings are a safe place to both fail and succeed! I'm excited to get better and work my way through the Pathways learning program.
Toastmasters is helping me grow in my ability to communicate, which in turn is helping build my confidence in a healthy way. I'm amazed at the thoughtful insight and encouragement I receive from all the members of the Kennebec Valley Toastmasters Club. Everyone attending, from complete novices to paid professional speakers, is there to help one another grow and become better at the important life skill of communication. (Maine Revenue Services)
GRACE DURGIN, DTM
I have been a Toastmaster since April, 1996. I have held most offices in my club and have been Area Governor 3 times. My Toastmaster experience has made me a more confident person. I only wish I had discovered Toastmasters years earlier. Even in retirement I find many opportunities to use the skills I have gained from Toastmasters. Come visit our club so I can meet you personally. I guarantee you'll have a great experience. (Retiree)
TOM DOWD, DTM
I joined Toastmasters in 2008 because I was painfully shy and introverted. I’ve found personal and professional success with my increased confidence. Each of us may have our own reasons to join Toastmasters. Whether you’re looking to increase your communication skills, leadership presence, or confidence level, Toastmasters can help you to reach new heights. I currently belong to a community club and a corporate club and have found the diversity of thought and ideas keeps me coming back for more. After ten years, I’ve also learned about selflessly giving back to an organization that has given me so much. (Professional Development and Coaching, LLC)
DJ TURCHON, DTM²
I joined Toastmasters in 2015 to gain communication skills. I was an introvert who lacked confidence when it involved speaking to people I did not know. I realized in order to have any career advancement, I needed to be able to communicate. Toastmasters changed everything for me! I have gained communication and leadership skills, become more confident and made new friends. I currently belong to two clubs; one is a corporate club, the other a community club. I am constantly learning in Toastmasters and have the opportunity to help others find their voice. (Quality Analyst)
ZACHARY COULOMBE, MS2
We all grow up dreading the inevitable, mandatory group presentations in High school. I was the worst at them. I was a shy, awkward teenager who became a well-rounded adult, but public speaking still made me nervous. Sadly, I did not stray far from the norm, most adults were never taught how to speak to an audience. Thankfully, Toastmasters is there to train us. My first meeting at toastmasters was fantastic, everyone was so friendly and encouraging. It was so refreshing to be around so many awesome people. I have already learned so much, and I am excited to see what we accomplish in the future. -
BONNIE SAMMONS, VC1
Toastmasters meetings are fun, interesting, educational well- structured and on time. There's a sense of camaraderie. Members are supportive of each other efforts. The program provides a wonderful platform to help anyone improve their speaking skills. By participating in Toastmasters, I have gained confidence in my ability to handle public speaking situations and sometimes even enjoy them! (Science Teacher, Farmer/Gardener, SMMC)
BILL CROSBY, DTM
Toastmasters didn’t just help me be a better speaker--it changed my life! The club experience offers different things for each of its members. Some come to build confidence in speaking, listening, or presentation skills. Some work at leadership development. For others it is an outlet for writing and creative expression. It’s all there for the taking. (Salesjump New England)
VICKI FOSTER, CL
Starting a job that involved making presentations, I wanted to be more organized and confident. I didn’t realize Toastmasters would help me on a different occasion. At a memorial service, when asked if anyone else would like to speak, my arm shot up with barely any hesitation--I needed to share some things that many there wouldn’t know about my loved one. I hadn’t prepared, but I organized my thoughts and spoke without rambling. I’m so glad I shared my memories; I credit Toastmasters for giving me the confidence. (Maine General Medical Center)
CITO CRUZ, VC2
Why did I join Toast Masters? I work with college students and almost every weekend I’m speaking to group of students. I’m also heading up a non-profit that helps people in need and that means traveling in Asia to speak in community groups and schools, with sometime as many as a thousand students. I also get to speak in churches in the area. I really don’t how good or how bad I am without people honestly critiquing me. By joining toastmasters, I get to know my speaking strengths and weaknesses and get to hone my speaking abilities. I’m encouraged by the positive response of my fellow members which strengthens my strengths and at the same time improve my weakness by listening to their critique. But my main reason besides the ones I’ve mentioned is simply being with people who love the same activity I love – speaking. (Teacher, Philanthropist)
BRIAN HEATH, CC ALB
Joining Toastmasters is one of the best things I’ve ever done. I joined because I have always been fascinated by people who speak well, and I wanted to be one of them. Soon after joining, I was introduced to a Toastmasters program called Speechcraft which also provides an opportunity to teach others outside the club. So far I’ve mentored kids in Middle school, as well as inmates in our local jail. I find it interesting that both students and inmates come away feeling empowered with a skill they value highly. This opportunity has been very gratifying; I have Toastmasters to thank for that. Wherever you go, the ability to convey your thoughts calmly and clearly, is a top shelf skill. Whether you wish to improve yourself, help others do the same, or both, Toastmasters is Time Well Spent. (Insurance Sales)
