AGO Members Encouraged to Renew Dues Online Printed Dues Renewal Forms Will Be Provided for Those Without Internet Access |
Feb. 10, 2011 NEW YORK CITY —The American Guild of Organists (AGO) is improving and expanding its dues renewal and collection process by providing online access to its national membership database. The new online dues collection system will be activated on or about May 15, 2011. New and renewing members will be able to log in to their own personalized user account, confirm or update their contact information, and renew online using a major credit card or pay later by sending a check. For those without Internet access, local chapters will provide a printed dues renewal form."This is an exciting technological step forward into the brave new world of membership management and online communications with AGO members, chapter leaders, and AGO National Headquarters," declared AGO Executive Director James Thomashower. "For the very first time in the history of the Guild, all local AGO chapters, Headquarters staff, and members will have 24/7 access to membership information, sharing a single database connecting nearly 20,000 members, subscribers, and friends. Because the local portion of AGO membership dues and contributions will be remitted back to local chapters via electronic funds transfers weekly, the new online dues collection system will help the AGO support a ‘greener’ environment by reducing the need for paper and postage." Every AGO chapter will have its own unique dues renewal page and the ability to collect contributions to help support its general operations, scholarships, or special programs. Local chapters have been asked to identify by February 28, a Chapter Administrator (often the Registrar or Treasurer) who will take responsibility for the setup and management of the local chapter’s dues renewal Web page. The setup is simple for anyone with Internet access and basic computer skills. Chapter leaders will be able to view and print membership reports for their chapter from any computer connected to the Internet. Online training for chapter leaders will be offered in April and May, while ongoing support will be provided by AGO National Headquarters staff. For further information, please visit http://dues.agohq.org. The AMERICAN GUILD OF ORGANISTS is the national professional association serving the organ and choral music fields. Founded in 1896 as both an educational and service organization, it sets and maintains high musical standards and promotes the understanding and appreciation of all aspects of organ and choral music. The mission of the AGO is to enrich lives through organ and choral music. The Guild currently serves approximately 19,000 members in more than 300 local chapters throughout the United States and abroad. The American Organist Magazine, the official journal of the AGO and the Associated Pipe Organ Builders of America, reaches an audience of more than 20,000 readers each month. This information is submitted by F. Anthony Thurman, Director of Development and Communications at the National Headquarters of the American Guild of Organists and The American Organist Magazine. For further information, please contact Dr. Thurman by TEL (212) 870-2310, FAX (212) 870-2163 or E-MAIL fathurman@agohq.org. |
