Wetaskiwin is currently in danger of losing a valuable resource, says Wetaskiwin Toastmasters vice president of membership Joan Petruk.
Chartered six years ago, the Wetaskiwin Toastmasters club has thrived, drawing members from all around Central Alberta, however, as with any other educational program, people join for their own reasons and leave when they achieve their goals, Petruk explained.
The Wetaskiwin club currently has seven members, however, at least eight are required, and closer to 20 members is ideal.
"We have six months to get back in good standing so we don't lose our charter," said Petruk, adding Oct. 1 was the deadline, so they now have until the end of March to get their numbers up.
If the charter is lost, a club requires 20 members to obtain a new charter again.
Of the current members, only one resides in Wetaskiwin, with some of the members travelling up to an hour to attend sessions.
Should the club lose its charter, members may have to drive even farther to find a club, such as to Camrose, Leduc or Beaumont.
Toastmasters is one of the most recognized public speaking and leadership training programs in the world with clubs in 145 countries.
The non-profit, volunteer-led organization teaches public speaking skills in a self-paced program that can be started at any time of year.
"It's a tremendous benefit ... it's one of the best things you can do for your future," said Petruk.
Toastmasters professes to help its members to present well, mentor others and advance their careers as members realize newfound confidence and communication excellence.
Members can practice their skills and receive feedback from peers in-person or online and can choose from six different pathways.
Members can even become accredited speakers.
In fact, one of Wetaskiwin Toastmasters' members will be the keynote speaker at a Remembrance Day service on Nov. 11.
Anyone interested in developing strong speaking skills is invited to join the Wetaskiwin Toastmasters for a free, no obligation session to watch and see how the program works, said Petruk.
"You will never be pressured to join but will be made welcome."
The Wetaskiwin Toastmasters meet on Monday evenings at the Manluk Theatre at 5002 53 Ave., Wetaskiwin.
For more information, visit toastmasters.org, or contact Petruk at 780-781-9927.
