our guild dues are $30--but we get 12 of the opportunity quilt raffle tickets and we get to keep the $10 from the sale of those so really just $20. The purpose behind that is to get everyone to sell at least $10 worth of tickets. Our dues and tickets support monthly program (some by members, some by regional or national speakers); backing/batting for charity quilts, our yearly quilt show, several door prizes at meetings, birthday fat quarters, twice yearly potlucks, almost monthly "sewing events" or classes. Some of our classes are taught by members (some of those who are certified teachers) some by outside teachers. Plus we have about 18hours of beginners classes that can be taken repeatedly and also an intermediate level class too. I think it's a great "deal", have lots of fun. We hae 2 meetings--evening and daytime/month. And as far as a small group "running things" as some of you mentioned, with 160 members not everyone is real active, but there is opportunity for anyone interested to get involved.