Why Little League?

I have been watching this board for several weeks now. I have been impressed by the thoughtful insights offered by the posters, both on the game and on league administration.

One thing I have noticed, however, is that the vast majority of you appear to be affiliated with Little League. Our association (525 hardballers and softballers ages 7 to 17) plays completely independent, a decision that was made many years before my generation of administrators arrived on the scene.

What I am interested in is your thoughts on the pros and cons of Little League affiliation. What is it that you can do better as Little League than as independent organizations? What about Little League gets in your way? If you were starting from scratch, what would you do, and why? Are the benefits cost justified?

I'd appreciate your thoughts.