Become a Member of the Club
Members are the club. Here's who can join, what it costs, and how it works — straight from the club's bylaws.
Who Can Join
There are three ways to be a member.
Voting Member
Sócio Efetivo
Portuguese, or of Portuguese descent or affinity.
Can vote and stand for office.
Full dues, unless a reduction applies.
Auxiliary Member
Sócio Auxiliar
Anyone without Portuguese descent or affinity who wants to belong.
The same privileges as voting members, except voting and standing for office.
Full dues, unless a reduction applies.
Minor Member
Sócio Menor
Under 18, with written consent from a parent or guardian, signed in front of a club director.
Cannot vote or stand for office.
Half dues, no initiation fee.
Dues
$150per year
Due by March 31 each year.
Plus a one-time $80 initiation fee (joia) when you apply. Minor members don't pay it.
The amount is set by the General Assembly.
Half dues (50%)
- Voting members over 65 with at least 5 years of membership
- Minor members, and adults up to 22 studying full-time at a college, university or professional school
- Adults whose spouse or registered domestic partner is already a voting member
- Members who are permanently disabled, with at least 1 year of membership and proof from the U.S. Social Security Administration
- Members who live permanently outside the New York Tri-State area
No dues
- Meritorious members (Sócio Benemérito)
- Voting members over 75 with at least 15 years of membership
- Voting members with 50 consecutive years of membership
How to Join
- 1
Find a member to propose you
Every new member is proposed by a current member. Ask someone you know at the club to put their name to your application.
- 2
Fill in the application
Ask for the membership application at the club. Return it signed, with one photo and the $80 initiation fee.
- 3
Posted for members
Applications go up on the club's information board at least a week before the next General Assembly.
- 4
Approved at the General Assembly
The General Assembly votes on new members. From approval you're a member, and your years of membership count from that day.
Dues are due by March 31. Three or more months late, membership rights are lost. After twelve months unpaid, membership ends, and coming back means a new application, a new initiation fee and paying the dues owed.
Club Distinctions
These aren't applied for — the General Assembly awards them.
Honorary Member
Sócio Honorário
For people of high distinction. No dues, no vote.
Meritorious Member
Sócio Benemérito
The club's highest distinction: at least 20 consecutive years of membership and long volunteer service. No dues, and keeps the vote.
Questions?
Call the club or send us a message — we'll help you with the application.
Based on the PACC Bylaws (2022).