Women in Film-Las Vegas: Membership Requirements and Benefits

Women in Film Las Vegas (WIF-LV) is the city's local chapter of Women in Film (WIF). This non-profit professional membership organization was founded in Los Angeles in 1973 by Tichi Wilkerson Kassel, the former publisher and editor-in-chief of The Hollywood Reporter, along with a group of women from the film and TV industries. Now there are over 40 chapters of this organization not only in the United States but also in 18 other countries spanning four different continents. WIF already has about 10,000 global members. In 2002, Phyllis Cesare-Taie established WIF-LV, which officially became the organization's 44th chapter.

Mission

As a community-driven and charitable institution, WIF is dedicated to helping people reach the highest levels of achievements in film and TV and other similar facets of the media and entertainment industries. It organizes different programs and events for its members and the community. These include trainings, seminars, workshops, opportunities, and access to contact opportunities.

WIF-LV educates, develops, builds, and sustains production and media careers through the networks, linkages, and partnerships the members get. These allow them to connect and access varying opportunities locally, nationally, and internationally. The organization is also committed to recognizing, supporting, and increasing the visibility of women in their careers. This further empowers female professionals and helps them achieve their highest professional and creative potentials.

Contact Details

Women In Film-Las Vegas is located at SkyView Towers, 6565 Spencer, Suite 210, Las Vegas, NV 89119. Its contact numbers are: (702) 737-7337 (phone) and (800) 701-8878 (fax). Email correspondences and inquiries should be sent to WIFLasVegas@aol.com.

General Membership Requirements

Based on its membership page, membership in the organization is open to women (and men) who meet the criteria for their selected membership levels. General requirements include employment or affiliation in the film/TV/video/entertainment industry or pursuing a career in the industry. Individual membership must be renewed yearly by paying the membership fee, which can range from $40 to $60, as of 2011.

All new members must be approved by the WIF-LV Board of Directors. A current member in good standing must also sponsor a new member. For interested individuals, the completed application forms (downloaded from the membership page) and annual dues will be verified, then the organization representative or officer will contact them regarding the status of their applications.

Membership Benefits

Standard benefits for members include: weekly job postings ($50 a month in value); WIF Las Vegas Newsletter; reduced admission to the organizations' seminars or workshops; inclusion of name, resume, or company services link on online membership directory; discounts on products, services, and publications provided by partners and sponsors; monthly calendar update of events; and guaranteed seat in all Networking Lunches and Mixers. Members also get participation opportunities in standing committees, programs, and charitable organizations. The membership fee is tax deductible.