Why PTA Memberships are Important
“I can’t join the PTA because I don’t have enough time.” “I don’t want to join the PTA because the president this year is no good.” “I don’t want to sign my husband up for PTA because he will never be able to attend meetings or go to events”. Sound Familiar? I’ve heard every reason at least 3 times. I want to tell you why PTA memberships are important in a simple, easy to understand way.
- PTA volunteers are working across the country to create a better school and home environment for every child.
- Volunteering and becoming a member of PTA do not occupy the same space.
- Every person that joins increases the strength of the local unit 10 fold – imagine a choir of voices singing. Each voice brings a different tone and sound to the chorus making it stronger and more beautiful.
- Local and state leaders consistently come to PTA leaders to hear what PTA is saying and what PTA believes – check out our help wanted section the website. There are many opportunities for volunteers to sit as a PTA representative on state education related committees to share what PTA believes. The Massachusetts Board of Education has a parent seat filled by a person recommended by the PTA.
- PTA is more than your school and fundraising. PTA is the leading voice and respected association in the country.
- PTA is traditionally in the form of parents supporting teachers and children. Teachers help the success skyrocket by joining and supporting efforts of parent volunteers.
Every school is faced with budget issues, crowded classrooms, outdated technology and under-funded programs. Every person can help these problems in a very simple way …. join PTA. And here is a sample membership form to help you get those members!
By Michelle Tremont, Massachusetts PTA Past President
When you talk about membership you are talking about building a team of PTA supporters. Whether they support the PTA financially or by lending a hand at an event, program, or with a fundraiser – your members are part of your PTA Team and each member is equally important. You will be working with people who are team players and who have great skills. At the same time, you will have many opportunities to continue developing those skills. Your investment of time, energy, money, enthusiasm, and dedication, teamed with that of millions of PTA members across the country make a vital difference in the lives and education of all children.
PTA’s strength is in your numbers. Every place you go — grocery store, baseball or soccer practice, play dates, community concerts, etc, are a great opportunity to recruit new members. Retaining your current members for the next school year is many times as easy as creating a postcard with a renewal membership form on the back letting them know that their membership has or is about to expire.
To get your community involved in the PTA, try recruiting your local merchants as business members. This will give them the opportunity to become part of the team. Your local merchants are a great resource for bringing in programs to educate parents on child and family issues.
Looking for more ideas on how to increase membership? Here is a wonderful brochure to help:
