I have not used that one but did try the National PTA sponsored "Just Between Friends." I didn't care for that one for various reasons and looked around online for other options. Other programs are out there but are a bit expensive. We ended up going with MailChimp , which has been wonderful for our email communications with members and volunteers. It does not do calendars, schedules, or event planning but is very easy and user-friendly for email communication to an entire group or just segments of the group.

I thought I wanted more of a management type software but actually the MailChimp program seems to do what we need pretty well.

The best part is that if you have 1,000 or fewer subscribers it is FREE!

Okay - didn't realize that the PT Avenue ( www.parentteacher.net ) is very similar to PTO Manager. The main difference is that the PT Avenue you can use sort of like your own web site. There is a calendar where you enter all your events and also you can have a section with files that parents can download (agenda, minutes etc). Its like the PTO Manager and PTO Finance built into one. Still would like to hear from others that have tried or is using this program.

Is anyone using PT Avenue? www.parentteacher.net We came across it last week and currently on day 2 of the 60 day free trial offer. So far we are loving it as it does SO MUCH!! Just wish we could find some others using it as well to share ideas, thoughts and problems with it. I think there is much more to do with it but I'm getting stuck!!! Anyone else use it? Or do you use another program? Please share (before we purchase this one - $179)

This is the information that shows up on the main screen of their web site(so much for me to type and explain):



PT Avenue provides school organizations such as PTAs, PTOs, PTSAs, etc. with user-friendly tools to help make the most of your time and resources. It's ready to work whenever and wherever you are. From any computer with Internet access (PC or Mac), you can log on to our secure online system and:

• Manage membership information
• Organize important documents
• Plan events
• Schedule volunteers
• Track your money (no accounting experience required!)
  Parent Communication has never been easier or more effective! With PT Avenue, you'll never worry about how to get in touch again.
  • Send mass e-mails to your members
  • Record and send out reminder phone calls, requests for help, you name it!
  • Write and send text messages to your members
  • Track all events on your group's personal calendar
  • Upload flyers, sound files, maps, pictures - any type of document you want to share!
    Can you see how PT Avenue can help turn your organization into a group that REALLY gets things done? How much easier will it be for everyone to stay informed with everything at your fingertips? Are you tired of cluttered stacks of forms, out-dated calendars, and lost printouts? Successful parent-teacher groups nation-wide are getting organized now with PT Avenue!