Wow - just saw a whole page ad for PTA in one of my magazines ("Rosie", I believe). Wonder how much that cost PTA, why they did it, and what they hope it will accomplish. The ad was more for the image, obviously, than for being informative as there was virtually no text in the ad. Too bad, considering the list of accomplishments PTA's have made on a national scale. I understand how groups (I'm a Girl Scout leader, too) have to work hard to attract new members and so are trying to look "hip", but I would be offended if I thought my PTA dues were going towards paying for a $1000 + ad...another reason I'm glad we're a PTO!

Actually we have known about the intended advertising campaign for quite awhile now and we were anxiously looking forward to it. There are many different aspects to it and most PTA's around the nation are taking advantage of it. In our town the PTA used to be in the newspaper constantly (early 50's to the late 60's) This will just help us reconnect with the media and for us it is a good thing.

When we left the PTA one of the things the state said was that we'd be getting a lot more things for our local group in the next year. I don't see how these big ads would have helped our group. They must costs a fortune.

I agree that it is yet to be seen exactly what our units will reap from this campaign but I think of all of the other non profit groups that have spent the money on advertising campaigns. It must raise awareness of the groups and that is the intention. Especially when, as in PTA's case, they are "changing their face". One of the goals is to put everybody on the same page. Using one logo, having a main slogan.
I have gained so much as a member of PTA that I gladly pay that $2.00 a year to National. The skills, relationships,knowledge and voice I have aquired is surely worth it. When my kids are long gone out of the school system I will continue my membership, volunteering and advocacy. Best Wishes!

Truthfully, I think one of the things that upset me about the ad was the total lack of substance to it. Yes, I know that they probably hired a PR firm to do it, but they did a lousy job. PTA has much to be proud of, and the accomplishments or activities should have been used to attract new members. Unless you were "in the know" you wouldn't have a clue who the ad was for. It could've been for a new brand of running shoes. Just my opinion!

You said it perfectly plw. The skills, relationships,knowledge and voice I have aquired is surely worth it. When my kids are long gone out of the school system I will continue my membership, volunteering and advocacy.

Maybe I'll even have more time to do some of the things I just can't squeeze into the picture these days.

By the way, I still send in my membership to the Elem. school and have become a member of our newest Early Childhood group in our Council.