Willow Glen Resident

Community

Loudspeakers Club helps people speak confidently

By Emilie Crofton

For some, giving one's opinion to a small group of co-workers can be just as hard as giving a seminar to 100 strangers, and picturing the audience in their underwear doesn't always work.

To improve communication and listening skills in all situations, Loudspeakers Club in downtown Willow Glen is there to help.

Loudspeakers is the Willow Glen chapter of Toastmasters International, a nonprofit organization founded in California in 1924 to establish a venue for people to learn how to speak and communicate more effectively.

"Speaking confidently and effectively opens up your world," says Justin Wang, the chapter's current president.

The chapter's key focus is on improving communication, speaking and leadership skills. The objective is to provide challenging and creative learning opportunities and mentoring for its members.

Members can manage their nervousness and fear of public speaking, learn to think on their feet, speak confidently and most importantly, practice what they learn in a supportive environment.

"Speaking and communicating effectively is an important part of everyday life, no matter what profession or activity a person is engaged in," says Cheryl Valdin, the chapter's vice president of public relations.

This year marks the chapter's 20th year. It moved into downtown Willow Glen about 1 ¹/2 years ago.

Valdin says the chapter is open to everyone and emphasizes that the term "public speaking" doesn't truly represent what the group is about.

"It's not just about standing on a stage and giving a presentation to a large audience," she says. "We're all about helping people improve their communications, to listen and speak more effectively, to think on their feet and learn how to express their ideas."

At the weekly meetings in Willow Glen, members practice what they learn in front of a supportive group using activities such as impromptu speaking, debates, workshops, table topics and storytelling.

Wang, who works in marketing, says the chapter can benefit anyone who relies on the powers of communication to steer their careers. Current Willow Glen chapter members include salespersons, Realtors, chiropractors and retirees.

"We all have a need to express ourselves in any walk of life," Valdin says. "It's all about learning new skills, feeling confident and having fun while your doing it."

Loudspeakers, the Willow Glen chapter of Toastmasters International, will host an open house on Nov. 6 from noon to 1 p.m. at 1202 Lincoln Ave. Those interested can learn about the program and see members at work.

For more information on Loudspeakers visit http://loudspeakers.freetoasthost.com/index.html.