When an individual or business chooses to be a member of an arts organization, they become a partner in arts advocacy. Membership dollars help to maintain daily operations, assisting with expenses like materials, salaries and utility costs. Because of these funds, the arts bring vitality and vibrancy to a community, helping to drive the economy, enhance education, and improve the quality of life in a region. The Dorchester Center for the Arts (DCA) has been providing arts education and programs for 45 years and in addition to its own programs, also serves as the Dorchester County Arts Council, encouraging and supporting art activities by other organizations and in the schools. Community members can show their commitment to this area by become a member of DCA.  A Basic membership is $35 for an individual; $45 for two adults at the same address. Family memberships remain at $45 and include two adults and the minor children at the same address. There is also a Student membership for just $15, available for young people ages 12-20. Businesses can become a part of the Dorchester Center for the Arts’ community by becoming a Corporate Member. For the $300 Corporate Membership, a business can obtain a membership for four adults, be recognized as a Corporate Member, plus be named as a sponsor for one of the Artist’s Reception Gallery Shows during the year. The business sponsorship of the Reception will be included in all promotion and advertising, including the more than 1,000 postcards distributed prior to the Gallery Show. Membership provides access to instruction from instructors at reduced rates, and discounts on special events, theater productions, concerts, workshops and more. Members also receive the newsletters, class schedules, notices of special events, and are eligible to participate in the annual Members’ Art Show, and the Students’ and Instructors’ Show. Membership dues also afford DCA the ability to bring the arts to the entire community. Individual, family and corporate participation helps to keep the arts vibrant in Dorchester County and beyond. For more information, or to become a member, call 410-228-7782. Editor’s note: Spectrum is the weekly column of the Dorchester Arts Center. It is written by Mickey Love, executive director.