For the past two years, our block captain has come around to our house to collect the dues from us personally.  We think its a great idea!  Not only do you get to meet your block captain / neighbor, but the block captain KNOWS where the dues envelope is and it doesn't get lost under someone's pile of mail.  This way, too, people's checks aren't lost forever.  I suggest that this become a mandate of each block captain. 

I agree it is a great idea! It is great to finally meet our neighbors.