Linux Foundation/Free Software Foundation

[TheWebaholic]

Is anyone here a member of the Linux Foundation or the Free Software Foundation? If so, do you find it useful? I'm considering joining one or the other.

I'm currently studying the Introduction to Linux course on the edX website, which was created by the Linux Foundation.

[xenopeek]

Well, you'd I think primarily become a member to support the work both organizations are doing--just like any other NPO causes or charities you donate to because you want to support the work those are doing. The Linux Foundation might earn itself back, see their benefits: https://www.linuxfoundation.org/about/j ... l#benefits. The FSF is tax deductible in the US and offers various token benefits: http://www.fsf.org/associate/benefits

While these are both important organizations and your membership will make a difference; consider also what other projects you might want to sponsors of perhaps a little smaller stature Like what is the program you use the most, that you enjoy the most, or that makes the most difference to you on Linux? You could consider donating to that program's project also.

[TheWebaholic]

Thanks for your reply. I'm interested in supporting the work they do, for example the ongoing development of Linux and protecting against threats from proprietary software companies. I'm also happy to donate to Linux Mint, of course!

[wanderer7]

Linux Foundation doesn't sponsor any GNU/Linux distribution, it is mainly focused on the Linux kernel, while Free Software Foundation(FSF) supports free software in general. For example, "the ongoing development of Linux" (kernel) is sponsored by LF and "protecting against threats from proprietary software companies" is done by FSF.
So, if you become FSF member, you'll be helping the free software movement and that includes a lot of free programs.
Xenopeek gave you good links, I'll add these 2, which explain the goals of LF and FSF respectively:
http://www.linuxfoundation.org/about
http://www.fsf.org/about/