About AFCP
The Association of Free Community Papers was formed in 1951 to provide a forum for free paper publishers across the country to come together, share best practices, exchange ideas and build a stronger free paper industry.
Our mission is to help our members enhance their profitability and lead in strengthening the free paper industry.
Since those early days, AFCP has grown to represent nearly 3,000 individual publications delivered to more than 45 million homes across the United States. AFCP hosts one major conference and trade show during the spring of each year; The Leadership Institute, a structured sales and sales management training program for free paper professionals; the National Advertising Network, the country's largest and most efficient classified advertising network and a host of member benefits.
Our members include all types of free publications. From 100% shopping guides to full community newspapers, alternative newsweeklies, and niche publications, all members are distributed to readers without charge. Membership includes independent publishers with single publications and a few employees to some of the largest media companies in the country. Our members are committed to free paper publishing and helping other publishers improve their operations. One can always expect another free paper publisher to provide guidance and assistance whenever needed.
AFCP is governed by a Board of Directors that is elected by its membership and appointed by affiliated state and regional free paper associations. Each state and regional association can appoint one or two board members depending on the number of their members who are also members of AFCP. AFCP members elect officers (President, three Vice Presidents, two At-Large members and the Secretary/Treasurer). Two board members are declared in the by-laws (Past President and the Executive Director, who serves as a non-voting member).
The National Advertising Network provides nearly all funding for association projects and member benefits allowing AFCP to hold dues at only $200 per year. When one considers the extent of member benefits that are nearly all provided at no additional charge, membership in AFCP is one of the best investments a publisher can make. Join AFCP today!