BENEFITS OF BELONGING TO PTA/PTSA

Being a member of PTA/PTSA means you are part of the largest organization dedicated to service for children.

The chief advantage of PTA over independent groups is PTA's potential for unified action-a unified attack on major problems, a unified push for improved legislation, an opportunity to act as a forum for ideas, and a chance to meet with others and discuss mutual concerns.

Information is available for the price of a postage stamp or a telephone call to the State or National PTA. California State PTA and National PTA provide its members with a toll-free 800 number for ready access to answers. Professional experts are available to help in problem solving.

PTA was started over 100 years ago in 1897. Though many persons do not understand the full scope of PTA, they realize it represents a force in the nation that speaks for all children.

PTA policies are adopted only after much study and discussion thus providing safeguards for units in their policy and decision making. The policies are the guiding principles which all levels of PTA must follow if the organization is to continue to work for the Objects.

PTA membership gives individual units:

• Name recognition as a national organization

• Access to certain grant monies

• Student scholarships and loans; teacher scholarship funds

• Informed and trained leadership

• Training for local leaders

• Publications

• Current information on pending legislation

• Volunteer legislative advocates

• Tax-exempt status

• Conferences and workshops

• Recognition and awards for outstanding local programs and people

• Exchange of information throughout the state and nation

• Benefit of other's experience in recognizing and solving problems

• Representatives from State and National PTA available to help

• Strength in numbers

• Unified voices influencing public action

Not all problems can be solved in the local community, and as part of a State and National Congress, the local association extends its influence beyond its neighborhood and helps to secure state and national action for children's benefit. America's population is a mobile one with families moving from one community to another, from state to state. Therefore, PTA cannot afford a merely local outlook. Through PTAs we help assure quality schools and opportunities for all children across the nation.

• A unit: Harry C. Fulton PTA
• A council: Huntington Union Council
• A district: 4th District
• California State PTA; and
• National PTA.