Quilt guilds are supposed to be fun and supportive - you found a rare one - and don't need to join them.
I am the Membership Director for our guild in MS and the 150+ members are all friendly and helpful. Our classes are only $5.00 and membership dues are $20.00 for the year. The members volunteer to teach and our classes are always full and very entertaining - and we do learn new techniques.
Keep looking for a friendly quilt group - you found one that is only in it for the money.
:)