Are you a member of a club?

[Wanda Van Winkle]

Through my work, I could become a member of a club that usually requires references, a $500 initiation fee and then a certain amount per month in dues (like around $50). This place has a nice restaurant, a place for weddings, and whatever else "club" places have. I've never been a member.

If you are a member, what are the benefits, and do you use them much?

[Greg Farra]

I would never be a member of a club that would admit someone like me! :basic03

[Dave McClung]

Through my work, I could become a member of a club that usually requires references, a $500 initiation fee and then a certain amount per month in dues (like around $50). This place has a nice restaurant, a place for weddings, and whatever else "club" places have. I've never been a member.

If you are a member, what are the benefits, and do you use them much?

I currently belong to the YMCA. I guess that is kind of a "club."

In the past I have belonged to a Country Club and a Metropolitan Club. In both cases, it was to have access to a facility to entertain clients.

When I lived in Denver, I belonged to a Metropolitan Club (no golf facilities and no swimming facilities). It was like paying an monthly fee to a nice restaurant. It was a great place to have lunch with clients.

When I lived in Houston, I belonged to the Country Club for my neighborhood. Although I don't personally play golf, it helped the value of our property to have the golf course available.

In my opinion, the advantages are:

If you are in sales, a club can provide a good atmosphere for building customer relationships.

If you entertain a lot (like a pastor), a club can provide a good atmosphere for relationship building.

If you enjoy golf or swimming, a club can provide those opportunities.

In my opinion, the disadvantages are:
It is easy to spend more money than the value you receive. In addition to the monthly dues, there is normally a minimum restaurant charge.

Belonging to a private club can encourage one to become a snob. The Bible has a lot to say about that.

Club activities sometimes compete with church activities. One's live can get out of balance.

Some clubs practice inappropriate discrimination.

Incidentally, a lot of clubs give special membership privileges to members of the clergy. I know of some who use their club membership very effectively.

[David Pettigrew]

Mine is called Denison First Church of the Nazarene. :M)

[Jim Franklin]

I have been a member of Boy Scouts as a leader and the Snow Lovers Club which doesn't cost anything. I was a charter member of the Nazarene's Caravan program the first year it was in existence.

[Bob Evans]

Does costco and sams club count?