(AGAS) is a non-profit organization which was formed in 1963 and incorporated in 1968. The purpose of the association is to promote recognition and preservation of Germanic cultural heritage in America. It achieves its objectives through the preservation and promotion of German music, folk dance and traditions, the documenting of the importance of Germanic heritage in America, participation in cultural exchange and educational programs designed to enhance recognition and appreciation of Germanic heritage, and promotion of scholarship activities in the areas of German history and language.
In 1998 AGAS expanded membership to allow greater participation by those in the German-American community. Since 1963 AGAS membership had been limited to club membership only. This had prevented interested people who did not belong to an AGAS member club from participating in AGAS activities.
During each of the association's festivals and activities many people inquire how they may join or otherwise be a part of the association. The categories of membership now include the following:
Charter/Full Club Membership, Associate Club Membership,
Individual Membership
By expanding membership AGAS hopes to meet the community's need to join an organization that supports the German-American Community.
Through their association in AGAS, member clubs can share ideas and experiences, coordinate their activities, and enjoy the support and fellowship of others in this area who are interested in promulgating the German language and Germanic customs.
AGAS Club Membership currently consists of the following organizations:
ALPINE DANCERS
AATG AMERICAN ASSOCIATION of TEACHERS of GERMAN, DC/MD AREA CHAPTER
ARMINIUS SOCIAL CLUB
THE CONTINENTALS of WASHINGTON, DC
DEUTSCHER KLUB, NVCC
EDELWEISS BAND
GERMAN SOCIETY of MARYLAND
GERMAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE SOCIETY
GERMAN-EUROPEAN AMERICAN SOCIETY
HEIDI und HEIMAT ECHO
HEURICH HOUSE FOUNDATION
MID-ATLANTIC GERMANIC SOCIETY
S.u.G.T.V. WASHINGTONIA
WASHINGTON SAENGERBUND
