A New Year, A New Way to Join the STLMM Family!

Here’s a fun fact many don’t know: STLMM’s “New Year” doesn’t start in January. Our fiscal year runs August 1 to July 31. Something I didn’t realize myself back when I joined in the early 2000s!

Since then, the Mandal has grown, evolved, and most recently gone digital in a big way. One of our many upgrades this year? A brand-new, super-simple membership system that makes joining (or renewing) faster than finding a seat at a packed Diwali Natak.

How to become a STLMM Member and Pay Annual Membership dues online?

Why become a member? Because being a member isn’t just about attending events…it’s about celebrating Ganapati with aarti, Gudhi Padwa with gul-poli, and Diwali with diyas & drama — together, as one big family in the Midwest!

Your membership:

• Supports cultural events, kids' activities, and community initiatives.

• Helps bring bigger and better programs (yes, more Natak's, musical events, and more!).

• Connects you to a tight-knit desi network right here.

And guess what? Becoming a member just got a whole lot easier because we are going digital! Just a few clicks and you’re in; no forms, no fuss, just full-on Marathi majaa!

We’ve heard a couple of common questions, so let’s clear them up:

1️⃣ Will I be automatically charged again next year?

Nope! ❌💳 The “next renewal date” you see just means your membership lasts until July 31. You won’t be billed automatically — you’ll still be in control when it’s time to renew.

2️⃣ Why am I being asked to pay $23.95 or 15% extra?

This is not a secret STLMM samosa tax 😋. We use an online platform called Zeffy — it’s 100% free for nonprofits. Instead of taking a cut from our fees, they survive on optional tips from donors. That’s what the extra 15% is.

If you don’t wish to tip Zeffy, just click the dropdown, choose OTHER, and type 0. You’ll only pay the membership amount. ✅

Let’s make this the most connected year yet. Join or renew today — and let the celebrations begin!