These two quotes, above (Peace Pilgrim) and below (from the Bible), have held an overriding influence in the development of the way the Teaching & Sharing Centers functions.  Nobody is required to pay anything to benefit from the bulk of what we do.  But, we very much need and appreciate those whose support allows us to do it. This balance is reflected in the options you have for your relationship with us. 
 

the poet's circle

With a history extending back into the 1980s, the poet's circle, today, is the free library privileges and emailing list for the T&SC.  It is not required that you become a member of the organization to take advantage of the many services of the T&SC.  To be added to the poet's circle, all you have to do is ask.  Being on the poet's circle list does not constitute membership, nor carry member benefits. 
 

Membership

The T&SC is a Michigan non-profit corporation legally organized on a membership basis.  The members form the decision making base from which the organization operates.  Members elect the Board of Trustees, and decide on other matters brought before them.  In addition to voting privileges (for those 18+ yrs old), members receive a 10% discount on most purchases made from the T&SC, Cherokee Bill's Trade Center or a touch of william.  Membership, of course, also entitles you to library usage, newsletters, and anything else available to the poet's circle.  However, only members have the option of receiving written communications (as opposed to email).

At their meeting in January 2009, the Board of Trustees extended a number of benefits to all members which were previously reserved for those going "above and beyond" in their support of the T&SC.   Among the items included is the CBTC Wholesale Buying Program.  The Wholesale Buying Program allows you to special order through the Teaching & Sharing Centers any item available in Cherokee Bill's Trade Center at its wholesale price (subject to minimum order requirements).  This can be quite a benefit at birthdays, Christmas, and other gift giving times, as well as saving you up to 30-50% on many items you might use for your normal daily needs. 

Additionally, a special consignment rate is available at CBTC for those who produce handcrafted products which relate to the missions of the Center.  Plus, for those without a sales tax license, a "flow-thru" consignment option is available to crafts people or artists participating in events we sponsor or are involved with. 

In 2011 we filed the necessary paperwork with the Michigan State University Federal Credit Union to allow our members to qualify for membership with MSUFCU.  T&SC members now have available to them the various credit union services of the MSUFCU.  (see our links)

Also, members needing greater access to the Center in Grand Ledge may request a key, rather than calling for appointments beyond our limited accessible open hours. 

To become a T&SC member you need to complete an application and pay the appropriate annual fee shown on that page.  Although all memberships are equal (no classes or levels of membership), there are annual, lifetime, and "nobody left behind" options available.  For those making regular financial contributions there is also a checkbox on the application you can initial to routinely have your membership fee taken from your first contribution each year, thus eliminating the need to complete an annual renewal form.  This option saves our resources, and your time. 

On January 9, 2010 the Board of Trustees decided anyone contributing $700 within a seven consecutive month period will be deemed to have paid a lifetime membership and so designated.  This is casually referred to as the 7 in 7 option.   
 

Above and Beyond

Board members at a meeting

Like any non-profit organization, we need volunteers and contributions beyond the basic membership dues in order to have things happen.  The Board of Trustees has authorized development of a number of volunteer positions (see the "Who We Are" page in menu at left).  If you live locally enough, and have an interest in serving, or in exploring what any of these participation possibilities might entail, please contact the T&SC, or any board member.  While your basic membership affords you full benefits (above), it is our hope you will find value in your connection with the T&SC, and desire to enter into greater participation with, or support of, all we do.

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