I'm not familiar with VANA or the benefits of paying for membership as I've never been a member paid or otherwise...but I'ms ure someone who does and has can chime in here with their own perspective!
Regarding the other question you asked: I do know Erin Blaskie the VA Coach fairly well (via this site) and was given the opportunity to view one of her training programs from the inside with a guest pass and will say that it looked very thorough and well put together.
Also, there are numerous members here who have taken Erin's classes and absolutely RAVE about them!
(Erin is not affiliated with the administration of VANA, at least not to my knowledge)