WINONA LAKE — Excitement is brewing for the members of Lake City Toastmasters and Warsaw Noon Toastmasters Club as they make preparations for their free Open House from 5:15 to 6:45 p.m Thursday, March 22. If you’ve ever thought about improving your public speaking and leadership skills or wondered what happens at a Toastmasters meeting, then please come join the club members at this Open House.

After a brief meet-and-greet period starting at 5:15 p.m., members and guests will enjoy keynote speaker Rob Parker of the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce, as he speaks about the benefits of connecting the community. Following his speech will be a regular Toastmasters meeting that will include a presentation by Alessa Tracy, Table Topics (impromptu speeches) led by Kent Brown and evaluations.

A networking session will follow where members will share their experience in Toastmasters and how the club is helping them achieve their personal and professional goals. They will also be available to answer questions.

Richard “Doc” Brungardt, who has been a passionate Toastmasters member since 1991, shares his experience.

“When I first joined Toastmasters, it was the supportive environment and accomplishment recognition that I really liked – and needed,” Brungardt said. “That encouraged me to stay a member, make new friends, join more clubs, and repeat all of the above many times. As my skills and confidence improved, my career as a veterinarian flourished. Now, I really like helping others find and develop their potential and achieve their goals. This Toastmasters program continues to be very rewarding to me.”

Serena Case has been a Toastmaster for two years and joined originally because she felt she lacked confidence when speaking in front of crowds and to management.

“I love the unconditional love and support that our Toastmasters club provides me and every one of our members,” Case said. “With these amazing people by my side, I feel I can do anything – face my fears, speak uncomfortable truths, learn, grow, and thrive.”

“Toastmasters is more than a social club,” says Peter Laio, President of Warsaw Noon Toastmasters and coach at Lake City Toastmasters. “I feel that, if I knew about Toastmasters a long time ago, I would have been more confident in presenting myself. What I love about our club is that we have a diverse group of novice and aspiring speakers. We have a variety of levels and we mentor each other to succeed and give feedback for improvement. Toastmasters is also a great way for networking and learning about leadership possibilities and I know it’s helped me. And it could help others too with motivation, confidence and communication skills”.

Free refreshments, guest packets and fun will be provided. Free parking is available on the premises and the location is easily accessible.

The Open House is open to the public and begins at 5:30 p.m. in room 142 of the William Male Center Building, located on Grace College campus. Guests can register on Eventbrite by visiting this link: http://bit.ly/2F6YpC3