“Membership has its privileges.” American Express proudly declared this as their advertising slogan in 1987. In a previous life — that was prior to becoming the director for CARE — I normally traveled two to three weeks per month. Although I did not enjoy “living out of a suitcase” for weeks at a time, the membership points earned from airlines, hotels, rental cars and restaurants were often nice. More importantly, these companies aways demonstrated the business practice of what I will call “members go first.”
For example, Southwest members board first, and so on with other companies. Regardless, membership also makes one feel special or in many cases rewarded.
Over the past three years, CARE and its membership program have been impacted dramatically by the COVID pandemic.
The CARE board decided to pause membership requirements, because the gallery was not open, nor was it allowed to hold events due to the health scare. They even made the difficult decision to cancel the Gateway to the Delta Festival during those years.
However, we are very excited to revitalize our membership program, and even add to its offerings for members of the community. If you previously purchased a CARE Lifetime Membership, that will remain in effect. Although we will no longer sell this membership level, we have decided not to raise the yearly membership rates for the 2023-2024 program year.
We would like to thank those CARE members who have continued to support our programs and renew their yearly memberships, even though we did not solicit these donations.
But, what are those privileges for CARE members? Rewards include first access to Gateway T-shirts and posters, along with shopping first for Holiday Market in December. Early access to event tickets for fun events such as luncheons, exhibits, Mardi Gras festivities, Kentucky Derby parties, and Halloween scares, just to name a few. Early access to register for classes such as Ladies’ Paint Night, Summer Camp sessions, Holiday Christmas Ornament painting and so many more classes. Members will also receive a 10% discount on all classes that have a supply fee to attend.
If you cannot find your CARE membership card from days gone by, do not worry. Members will be given a new card, even if you are a lifetime member. Stop by the CARE building starting Sept. 1 or stop by our membership table at the Gateway Festival to renew your membership, confirm your contact information and pick up your new membership card.
See you at Gateway! Membership does have its privileges!
