1.    The journalism profession is changing and you need to keep up with what’s new.
2.    Be cutting edge – learn new technology and techniques at national, regional and local workshops and conferences.
3.    Access members-only areas of SPJ.org for job listings, a freelancers’ directory, online training opportunities and additional member benefits.
4.     Add your voice to an organization that fights for journalists, FOI and a free press.
5.    Discounts to national conventions, regional conferences and local chapter events.
6.    Networking – key if you’re hunting for a new job or need to consider your options in this tough job market.
7.    Find a network of people passionate about journalism and willing to support you when you need it.
8.    Learn from fellow SPJ members. The organization is a diverse group of ages, backgrounds and skill levels. You have the opportunity to share your expertise with others while learning new tips and tricks from your colleagues.
9.    Have fun! SPJ is made up a terrific group of people who are not only colleagues but friends.
10.    Save money – SPJ is significantly less expensive than other national journalism organizations.
What’s your reason?

Our 2010 in 2010 membership drive is well under way and our chapters are doing great bringing in new members and encouraging current members to renew. The contest ends Dec. 31, so you still have a few more months. And, don’t forget the prize: free 2011 convention registrations to the top 3 finishers in each category.

So far the top 10 in each category:

Large Chapters
1.    Chicago Headline Club – 204 new or renewing members
2.    New York Deadline Club – 162
3.    D.C. Pro – 134
4.    Los Angeles Pro – 114
5.    Northern California – 104
6.    Colorado – 102
7.    San Diego – 93
8.    Western Washington – 73
9.    Long Island – 71
10.    Minnesota – 68

Small Chapters
1.    New Mexico – 41 (Kudos to New Mexico, who just launched its chapter this year!)
2.    Maryland Pro – 39
3.    Louisville Pro – 38
4.    St. Louis – 38
5.    Eastern Tennessee – 37
6.    Utah – 33
7.    Mid-Michigan – 31
8.    Middle Tennessee Pro – 31
9.    Alabama Pro – 27
10.    Arkansas Pro – 26

Campus Chapters
1.    University of Florida – 36
2.    University of Missouri – 24
3.    DePaul – 19
4.    California State – Fullerton – 16
5.    Ohio – 14
6.    IUPUI – 11
7.    Alabama – 11
8.    Baylor – 10
9.    Lincoln – 10
10.    Several with 9

You still have plenty of time to take the lead!