Whether it’s to entertain, inform, inspire, prepare for an interview, give a toast, or just be good at thinking on your feet, the ability to speak well is important.

Toastmasters International, which has 15 clubs on the Central Coast, offers a safe environment to learn, practice, and receive constructive feedback on your communication skills, said Eve Giroux, the new division director.

“I’m pleased to announce that the local community has 15 Toastmasters clubs covering the Carpinteria, Santa Barbara and Goleta area.” said Giroux.

“Each club chooses its own day, time, and frequency to meet; anyone looking for a supportive and positive learning environment has multiple options to choose from,” she said.

“In 1929, Santa Barbara welcomed the fifth club established by Toastmasters International, aptly named Santa Barbara Toastmasters,” said Anna Romero. “Over the years, more clubs with unique personalities and stories emerged, dedicated to meeting the needs of locals eager to enhance their communication and leadership skills.

“Among our diverse clubs is our latest addition Ontraport Toastmasters, exclusively catering to the employees of Ontraport.”

“For me, Toastmasters is a place to be creative, and grow in unexpected ways,” said member Katy Porter. “I started on the East Coast, and have been in clubs for most of my adult life.

“Each time I moved, the first thing I did was find a local club. Friendly faces and the opportunity to be expressive made the transitions much easier.”

To find a local club and get more information, visit toastmasters.org/find-a-club or www.toastmasters.org, or email Giroux at division-e@d33tm.org.

Toastmasters International is a worldwide nonprofit educational organization that empowers individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, the organization’s membership exceeds 280,000 in more than 14,700 clubs in 144 countries.