Next - AES

Whew, finally most of my big volunteer projects are done... for now. The Fall Conference for Toastmasters is over. The parade is over. Next up is the American Enterprise Speech Contest (AES).

AES is put on by the National Management Association (NMA). NMA is comprised of various chapters throughout the United States. The chapter in my area is working with local Toastmasters groups to sponsor high school students.

The primary purpose of the contest is to promote a better understanding of the American Enterprise System among high school students. Involving youth in researching, writing, and delivering a speech on American's economic system will increase their awareness of economics and serve as a reminder to the audience of the important role that a competitive economy plays in our ability to compete worldwide.

This contest also provides an incentive for the development of communication skills that are so vital to those entering the workforce.

My job is contact local high schools and educate and inform them of this opportunity for their students. There are four competitive levels and prizes of the contest:

1. Chapter - Competition between high school students sponsored by an individual NMA Chapter (in my case local Toastmaster clubs). Prize money is determined by the Chapter but not to exceed $500 for 1st place.
2. Council - Competition of Chapter winners. Prize money to be determined by the Council but not to exceed $750 for 1st place.
3. Area - Competition among Council and Chapter winners. Prizes (Savings Bonds): 1st place = $2,000; 2nd place = $1,500; 3rd place = $1,000.
   
4. National - Competition among the six area winners. Prize (Savings Bonds): 1st place = $10,000; 2nd place = $5,000; 3rd place = $3,000. $500 cash will be given to the 4th through 6th place winners.

This all started in 1988 (and I was a high school student at the time) but had never heard of it till now. It's doubtful that even if I had known of this when I was eligible that I would have entered. But all the same, I'm excited to be a part of it now. I think it's a fabulous opportunity for America's youth. I can't wait to see how this unfolds.

The Toastmaters club that I belong to already has a young member who is interested in participating in AES. I'm sure I'll get to work close with her to assist, guide and mentor in anyway I can. But I also want to be sure that other young adults in the area are able to be a part of this too.

What a chance for me to be more involved in my community! I'm sure I'll make a lot of great contacts along the way, maybe even some new friends.