Professional Memberships

There are many of us that are members of, and often participate in, Professional Organizations. I am a member of two (American Institute of Constructors and St. Louis Engineer's Club) and looking at becoming involved with the AGC. All of these Organizations charge a fee for their membership, but what do we gain from being a member? They all have the benefit of being able to state that you are a member of the Organization. But what is the REAL return on your investment? I'm a nember of the AIC, which does require certain qualifications and experience to become a member. But besides being able to say "I'm a member of the AIC" I don't feel that I've seen a return on my yearly investment. At the same time, I don't want to let my membership lapse, even if I don't see a return yet. Maybe if I was looking for a job this would help. We do get yearly or quarterly newsletters that try to give us insight on what the Organization is doing. But there aren't local meetings, so it's hard for me to see the return. At least with the local affiliation I'm not participating by choice.