Or you could just do like I do. Don't pay it. I'll jumpseat on any number of airlines for free before I pay it. As far as my family members, I don't like the idea of my parents being bumped off a flight (and potentially stuck for hours) that's costing one of us $200 when for another $100 they could get a guaranteed seat.

Your management negotiates the pass benefits you get. If your parents aren't covered, that's because your managment didn't feel you or they deserved it, not Delta management. You need to look a little closer to home for the evil managment that's keeping you down.