The positive and negative aspects of becoming a PTO are flip sides of the same coin - independence. A PTO is generally a stand-alone organization unaffiliated with any other organization other than the school it serves. Its programs and its money are focused locally. With this independence, comes the price. The PTO must take responsibility for itelf - there is no parent organization to provide structure, guidance, procedures, or shortcuts. PTO's often raise large amounts of money, so don't make the mistake of viewing it as just a little neighborhood club. It's a non-profit business with legal obligations at the State level and to the IRS. So you need to understand things like Tax Exemption and Non-Profit Status and Officer Liability.
The good news is that PTO Today's website is a valuable resource for networking you with others. So you aren't really alone. There are lots of us out here willing to share information and to help.
If you are just starting out, your best bet is to find time to really settle in for some reading. Change the toggle that shows messages "from the last 45 days" to the last year or always. Then scan through the past postings, especially in the "Starting a New PTO" and the "PTO Management" areas.
You'll find a lot of valuable information and see some of what's out there to be shared. Post messages to the Forum as to what you need help with or questions you have, and I'm sure you'll get lots of assistance.
