President's Message - September 2007

By Laura Mondello

Are you making the most of your Network membership? With so many new members joining us, we want to be sure that you are aware of all of the benefits that you are entitled to as a Network in Aging member.

Membership benefits are based on your level of participation. Everyone, whether they are individual members or Platinum sponsors, may participate on committees, may be nominated and elected to the Board of Directors and may vote in all Network elections. In addition, all members receive this newsletter, which includes a calendar of events listing workshops, training seminars, conferences and other activities related to aging and long-term care, and receive emailed information on Network events and activities.

All members also receive discounted registration on Network events, however the higher your sponsorship level, the more people you can register at the member discount. For example, an individual member receives one discount while Platinum and Gold sponsors receive unlimited discounts. In between those levels, Bronze sponsors get 4 discounted registrations and Silver sponsors receive 12 discounted registrations.

All levels of sponsorship receive a free information table at the Network in Aging annual meeting and also have an opportunity to place an ad or half page article in the Network in Aging newsletter. The number of advertisements/articles is also based on your level of sponsorship, with Bronze sponsors getting one ad or article and Platinum getting four ads and one article.

Sponsor members are also entitled to host one of our monthly "Network with the Network" events. These popular networking events offer you a chance to welcome your fellow Network in Aging members to your site for either a social opportunity or an informational seminar. We'll be planning the 2008 calendar soon, so keep your eye out for your chance to reserve a month to host a program.

It's very important that Network sponsors are aware of these benefits and that you take advantage of them. While we do provide reminders through the newsletter and other communications mechanisms, it is your responsibility to contact the Network and provide information in a timely manner (especially for newsletter articles/ads.) The Network Newsletter is published in January/April/July and October. It is the sponsor's responsibility to submit information by no later than the 10th of the month previous to the month of publication.

Membership renewal reminders will be coming out in November. Look for your renewal information, and take a look at the various membership benefits. You may find that it is worth your while to upgrade your membership to receive more benefits for your organization.

As always, thank you for your support of the Network!