Toastmasters celebrates 50 years of building effective leaders and communicators in Wright County

            In late January of 1970, the Clarion Methodist Church basement was no doubt a loud and boisterous place to be. Lots of interesting information and laughs were likely shared. It wasn’t a church meeting or gathering of one of the usual organizations, but rather a bunch of chatty men who enjoyed celebrating the art of communication and signed a charter to prove that. 50 years later, the Wright On Toastmasters gathered to celebrate the anniversary of that night and recognize a club that is still going strong in the county.

            Toastmasters in an international organization that most people probably know for its focus on public speaking. But the group does so much more than that. As the organization’s mission statement declares, “We provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth.”

            The Wright On chapter accomplishes those goals in the several ways. As former club president Emily Askvig noted, “I joined because I have a passion to become better at public speaking. But I’ve also come to value the friendships I’ve made. This is such a supportive and fantastic club.”

For the full story, see this week's Monitor