Bend Toastmasters

Our Story

What is Toastmasters?

No, we don't make toasters!

Toastmasters International was founded in 1924. It has grown to become a world leader in helping people become more competent and comfortable in front of an audience. The nonprofit organization now has nearly 260,000 members in over 12,500 clubs in 113 countries, offering a proven – and enjoyable! – way to practice and hone communication, public speaking and leadership skills.

Our local Bend Chamber Toastmasters group is composed of approximately 20 people who meet weekly for an hour. Participants practice and learn skills by giving prepared speeches, performing impromptu speeches (during “Table Topics”) and filling a meeting role, such as timer, evaluator or grammarian.

There is no instructor; instead, speeches are critiqued by fellow members in a positive manner, focusing on what was done right and what could be improved.

Whether you are a competent speaker or someone who is terrified of being in front of an audience, Bend Chamber Toastmasters offers a safe, supportive and FUN environment to gain valuable skills, such as confidence, leadership, and the ability to communicate effectively.

Good communicators tend to be good leaders. Some well-known Toastmasters alumni include: Peter Coors-of Coors Brewing Company, Debbi Fields Rose- founder of Mrs. Fields Cookies, Leonard Nimoy- played “Spock” on Star Trek, James Lovell- former astronaut on Apollo 13 Mission, K.C. Jones- former coach of the Boston Celtics

What would you do if you were more proficient at public speaking?

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