Membership Portal
Anyone can become a member of our club - and we welcome you!
As a volunteer and non-profit organization we depend on our membership to keep this part of German-American life in New England alive and thriving. Our members come from various backgrounds, from German expats, the people reconnecting with their family heritage, to members who studied in Germany or have visited as a tourist and want to stay connected with Geman language, culture and Geselligkeit.
We are looking forward to welcome you as a new member at the BSV! Learn more about membership benefits and the application process below.
Membership Types
The BSV has two types of membership: Active/Voting and Passive/Non-Voting. The only difference between the two types of membership is that Active members can run for positions on the board (Vorstand) and can vote in the elections for the Vorstand. A member is automatically considered active if he or she a) is German, b) is of German descent (2nd generation), or c) speaks fluent German. Passive members can be also made active members at the discretion of the board. A determination of membership level is made during a brief interview process following the submission of an application.
Membership Dues
Annual membership dues are $100 per year, per member. Annual dues are due on June 1 of each calendar year. New members will be granted a pro-rated membership dues rate for their first year.
Membership Benefits and Rights
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Access to member-only events
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Free entrance to Sommerfest and Oktoberfest
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Priority access to purchase tickets for all public events
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Reduced tuition for German classes at the Adult Thursday School
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Reduced pricing at the Ratskeller bar at certain events
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Reduced pricing for facility rentals
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Right to all notices/publications
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Right to attend business meetings
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Right to vote on club matters in business meetings
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Right to run for club's board (active members only)
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Right to vote in board elections (active members only)
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Members are expected to volunteer at a minimum of one event per year club functions each year
Volunteerism
As a completely volunteer-led, nonprofit organization, the future of the BSV depends on the volunteerism of our membership. As a member of the BSV, the expectation is that you will volunteer at a minimum of one public event per year. Many of our members, however, are actively involved in all of the operations of our club. There are a number of volunteer opportunities related to general club operations outside of our event calendar.
Membership Application
You can complete the online membership application in our membership portal via the link below. Your first year's dues (prorated) will be paid upon submission of your application.
Once submitted with payment, our Director of Membership will reach out to you about the next steps, which may include a brief interview process to determine your appropriate membership level.
Membership Questions
Questions can be directed to Jen Weissert, our Director of Membership at: Jennifer.Weissert@germanclub.org