... Don't join if ...
On the other side of the coin ...
JOIN AMSAT if you are interested in supporting ARISS and its school contacts. JOIN AMSAT and promote satellite knowledge to all kinds of audiences - ham or not. JOIN AMSAT and watch your group's eyes widen as you demonstrate working one of the FM birds with only your handheld radio and better antenna. JOIN AMSAT to help support its presence at hamfests and conventions. JOIN AMSAT and volunteer! There are many tasks and activities that need your energy and knowledge. JOIN AMSAT if you are interested in educating the next generation of satellite engineers. INCLUDE AMSAT in your will - it is a painless method to enhance your legacy for the benefit of amateur satellite communications across the globe.
That's all I can think of off the top of my head ... I am sure others have even more excellent reasons to get involved with AMSAT.
Clint Bradford, K6LCS http://www.k6lcs.com