I didn’t campaign on a promise of “Change We Can Believe In” because, quite frankly, I think the organization has a pretty good thing going! As the incoming president of the American Advertising Federation-Central MN, I would like to speak to the benefits of being a board member, plain ol’ member who enjoys all of the AAF member benefits, and an active volunteer in my local club. The benefits and growth I have experienced from being involved are priceless. I have met people, prospective clients…who have in some instance became active clients, learned a ton from extraordinary luncheon speakers, mentored current students, networked with local pros, people from other states, clubs, and agencies and have had a ton of fun in the process.

The new President, Jennifer Keul

As plagiarized from the American Advertising Federation website:
The American Advertising Federation (AAF), acts as the “Unifying Voice for Advertising.” The AAF is the oldest national advertising trade association, representing 40,000 professionals in the advertising industry.

AAF Mission
The American Advertising Federation protects and promotes the well-being of advertising. We accomplish this through a unique, nationally coordinated grassroots network of advertisers, agencies, media companies, local advertising clubs and college chapters.

Here’s what the AAF does:
· Brings members together to yield creative business solutions.
· Protects and promotes advertising at all levels of government through grassroots activities.
· Educates members on the latest trends in technology, creativity and marketing.
· Provides programs to assist local association volunteer leadership.
· Presents the industry with its future leaders.
· Honors advertising excellence.
· Promotes diversity in advertising by encouraging the recruitment of people of diverse cultures.
· Applies the communication skills of its members to help solve community concerns.
· ADDY Awards – the world’s largest and arguably toughest advertising competition.

And on a local level, being a member gets you:
· Discounts to AAF luncheons and events
· ADDY registration
· Opportunities to attend social events
· Exposure and access to local professionals in the industry
· Networking opportunities
· A ton of great benefits, such as discount pricing to Adweek, Advertising Age, Brandweek, AdCases.com, FedEx Shipping, Hertz rental, and MANY others.

You don’t all have to jump online and register to become a member of your local AAF Chapter (even though I would if I were you), but I do encourage you to give your support to a local organization that will be mutually beneficial.