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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
the poet's circle is the free
library privileges and mailing 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. You may occasionally be
asked to acknowledge your wish to remain on the list by stating so on
a renewal card, so we are sending to those we know desire it.
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. To become a member
you need to complete an application
and pay the appropriate annual fee shown on that page.
Above and Beyond
Like any non-profit organization, we need volunteers
and contributions beyond the basic membership dues in order to have
things happen. Those members who serve in any volunteer position, or commit financially to a
monthly equivalent of the annual membership dues (contributions
equal to or exceeding $24 per month, $72 quarterly, $144
semi-annually, or $288
annually) are eligible for 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 40-50% 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.
Also, many volunteer positions come with a key, which
gives you 24 hour access to the Prayer Room, Library, Multi-purpose
Room, and even the Trade Center (maybe to get that gift at the last
minute, which you forgot to pick up).
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.
There is no special form or designation for those who go above and
beyond to help and serve. You simply
need to have completed the standard membership application.
When you are eligible, the
extra benefits automatically apply.
For those making regular financial contributions there
is 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.
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