From the Apopka Toastmasters
The Apopka Foliage Toastmasters will mark its 50th anniversary with a special club meeting on April 2nd at the Museum of the Apopkans. Public members are invited to attend the event by emailing Robert Jankun at rejankun@aol.com or calling 407-765-2629.
Since 1975, the club has been dedicated to helping people become better communicators and leaders.
“Apopka Foliage Toastmasters provides a supportive environment where members can overcome their fear of public speaking and sharpen presentation skills,” says Samuel James, Club President. “Other benefits include the opportunity to increase one’s confidence, build critical thinking skills, and become an effective listener,” adds Mr. Jankun, who will be hosting the meeting.
Jankun knows what he says--he’s been a club member for over 15 years. At the upcoming celebration, he’ll be the Toastmaster leading the events. “We’ll be relaying the club's history, providing some speaking opportunities, and showing how the club works. We’ve invited some past members -- and all of Apopka--to drop in and say hello,” says Jankun, now the Club Secretary after having served every club role.
As one of the oldest Toastmasters clubs in the U.S., Apopka Foliage Toastmasters has changed. The club believes its founders were likely all Caucasian men. Also, women were only allowed for two years before 1973. “We are now of mixed genders and very diverse races and nationalities, says President James. “And I mean worldwide since our mission includes livestreaming all our Apopka in-person meetings. Last week, we had a visitor from Australia,” notes James, a two-year club member.
Regarding the club name, it is believed the founders chose it to reflect Apopka being the indoor foliage capital of the world. “We continue to be grateful to Apopka and its heritage, and we’re inspired to offer a safe place for personal growth as well,” says Jeffrey Casey, Vice President of Public Relations
Apopka Foliage Toastmasters (#840) is located in District 84. The club meets each Wednesday at 7:00 PM at the Museum of the Apopkans on 120 E. 5th Street in Apopka. For more information, please visit apopkatoastmasters.com.
About Toastmasters International
Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that builds confidence and teaches public speaking skills through a worldwide network of clubs that meet online and in person. In a supportive community or corporate environment, members prepare and deliver speeches, respond to impromptu questions, and give and receive constructive feedback. This regular practice empowers members to meet personal and professional communication goals. Founded in 1924, the organization is headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, and has over 270,000 members in more than 14,000 clubs in 150 countries. For information about local Toastmasters clubs, please visit www.toastmasters.org.
