Consider the MEMBERS ONLY event

Programs catering to your members ONLY are a boon for any club. Their benefit for your organization are two-fold:
1. It rewards the membership, 2. It attracts prospects to join.

Free? For a price? That's up to you, but we suggest you mix it up.

Unlike a free membership, a free event for your members (only) is a nice gift.

Sponsor for free events that are also restricted to your members so that they feel appreciated.

Then hold some to pay events that are also for members only. These events will also encourage some fence-sitters to sign up as members and pay for an event. Maybe you can give these new members a "com bo" price for membership and the program.

Just remember when making offers to new members not to alienate those who have been loyal to your club over the years. Watch out for those who join only to attend one members only event. They are unlikely to renew and their interest in the group is probably tangential or limited.

Membership in many of the clubs we've managed are event-driven. At least in part, folks join to take advantage of lower-priced member rates to attend events. The discounted cost for events often can pay for the full cost of membership for the frequent fliers who come often. Make everyone aware of any other benefits, besides discounts for programs, that they get by belonging, but give them the bottom-line on savings when they do attend your events.

People join organizations for a variety of reasons; what they get out of belonging may be sentimental, career-driven or any number of other personal advantages. Your group, undoubtedly, offers tangible benefits, like retail discounts or access to specialized information.  If your benefits are unique enough to your group, they will also convert prospects to membership.