Top 10 reasons YOU should become a member today

• Access to professional video equipment including Sony’s professional three-chip Mini DV digital camcorders, tripods, microphones, lighting and more!
  
• Easy to use television studios where you can tell your story or uncover an interesting story from your community by recording interviews, performances or any other non-commercial television show.
  
• Learn video editing or improve your skills by using our latest Final Cut Pro software on Macintosh G5 computer stations.
  
• Your local one-stop shop for media supplies including DVDs, Mini DV, DVCAM, VHS and SVHS tapes.
  
• Convert your videotapes to DVDs, higher quality digital tape (Mini DV) or create interactive menus by learning DVD authoring.
  
• Broadcast your home video or film project on B-TV channel 28 which is seen 24/7 by all cable subscribers in Berkeley and on the world wide web at www.betv.org
  
• Support free speech by supporting the only East Bay “free programming” television station which is threatened by ongoing budget cuts. Our extensive range of programs include Berkeley High sporting and performance events, Democracy Now, Free Speech TV and much more.
  
• Promote democracy by supporting our efforts to bring Berkeley residents live meetings of the City Council, Rent, School and Zoning Boards.
  
• Find upcoming local events on our electronic bulletin board that runs between programs on B-TV channel 28.
  
• Publicize your non-profit message by signing up your organization and producing a public service announcement.

Types of membership 

Membership Type	Price	Description
Berkeley Residents (Photo ID, proof of residence required alongwith a membership form and agreement)	$60	Access to all facilities and services, including camera lending library, television studios and editing equipment usage for no extra charge while producing non commercial content for B-TV. Access to low cost video training in above equipment, special workshops, tape duplication, DVD creation, additional media service rental, event invites, quarterly newsletter and more! Berkeley residents may also vote in the biannual BCM board elections.
Non Resident Volunteers (Photo ID required along with a membership form and agreement)	$60	Access to low cost video training, crew positions in studios assisting BCM productions and media services rental.
Non Profit Organizations (that are located in or serve Berkeley residents) Letter of application required on letterhead as well as individual membership form and agreement signed by the main contact person.	$150 / three organizational members $50 / each additional member	Access to all Berkeley Resident benefits above as well as ONE free Public Service Announcement production or other media service. Additional services may be hired on a project basis. Find out how BCM can help grow your organization’s visibility! You will also get preference with Community Bulletin Board announcements which publicize events on Channel 28.
Youth under 18 (Photo ID, proof of residence, membership form and agreement required with parental signature)	$30	Berkeley youth get full access as listed above under Berkeley resident member benefits. BCM also organizes a popular summer TV youth camp, where youth learn how to produce short videos in teams and get a DVD of their work!

How to Join
New members must attend a regularly scheduled monthly orientation or schedule an appointment during normal business hours to learn about Berkeley Community Media policies and get a tour of the facilities. Members then pay the annual fee and are given a handbook full of production tips and policies that they may take home. Once forms have been submitted and membership processed, members can sign up for workshops to get certified in facility and equipment usage.

Financial Aid
As part of its commitment to provide access to a free speech electronic forum to Berkeley residents, Berkeley Community Media strives to provide easy access to its programs and facilities. The amount available for financial assistance may vary from time to time depending on demand. Please fill out the financial aid form and provide income verification. If approved, you may be asked to pay part of the amount owed and volunteer towards the remaining payment.