Page 27 - October 2017 Voices

SUCCESSFUL CLUB PERSPECTIVES

University of Oregon Club Toastmasters. . . Where Everybody
Knows Your Name

by Angela O’Brien, Club Treasurer
by Leanna Lindquist, DTM, IPDD

When I moved to Oregon 40 years ago better version in a few
I longed for the sight of a familiar face, for weeks. We supported our contestant with a
someone to say, “Hello Leanna.” It didn’t matter round robin evaluation. We laughed, learned,
if I was at the grocery store, the gas station, or and loved being Toastmasters.
the dry cleaners. Not one face was familiar to Supporting one another is a bonus I
me. No one knew my name. appreciate. Many of our members have been
The beauty of Toastmasters is you become touched by tragedy, job loss, and poor health.
part of a small community, then a larger one. There are wonderful stories in District 7
I recently experienced community while of members helping members outside the
attending contests. I hadn’t seen David Johnson, club setting. Food at memorial services, job
Ruth Geislinger, or Robert and Terri Brewer references, transportation, housing, and a
for months. We instantly recognized each helping hand with child care or a move are just
other and started talking. I visited Competitive some of the ways members have helped each
Speakers PDX to see Chelsea, Ryan, and Atlas other. Solid friendships and even marriages
Avery. I also saw Karen O’Keefe, Erik Crowley, have occurred because of Toastmasters.
Thomas Lundsford, and Eldred Brown whom If you have had to step away from
I hadn’t seen in months. I love to walk into a Toastmasters for a while, you most likely
room and see familiar faces. I was at a play in were welcomed back with open arms. People
Lake Oswego last week. Someone came up to remembered your name. They were happy to
me and said, “I know you, I’m from Banfield see your face. You were able to pick up right
Barkers.” What I wouldn’t have given to have where you left off. It felt good to be back in
an experience like that 40 years ago. your community.
I love the comradery Toastmasters offers. If you are of a certain age you will know
We had an outstanding meeting at Feedbackers this article was inspired by the beloved sitcom
on the 11th. I stepped out of my comfort zone. I Cheers. You might enjoy a little comparison
told a story about a scary experience. I received between the theme song and Toastmasters. I
valuable feedback that will help me deliver a see a similarity. Do you?

VOLUME 4 ISSUE 4 OCTOBER, 2017 27