n previous articles, we explored how to choose an RV dealer based on their service operations and sales approach. While these are crucial aspects to choosing a dealer, there’s another important factor to consider: how engaged the dealership is in supporting their local community and the RV industry as a whole. A dealership that invests in its community and supports RV-related causes shows a commitment not just to making sales, but to fostering a healthy, vibrant RV lifestyle for everyone.
Engagement with the Local Community: Community engagement can take many forms, and sometimes it’s not directly related to RVs. For instance, many dealerships contribute to local high school sports teams or support charitable events. At Campers Inn RV, for example, we proudly support initiatives like the “Stuff the Bus” event in Jacksonville, Florida, “Toys for Tots” in several locations, “Seats for Soldiers” at local sporting events and “Bikes for Kids” in North Carolina. These contributions aren’t just about writing checks — they’re about being an active participant in making the community a better place.
When a dealership invests back into the community, it shows it isn’t just there to do business, but to be a good neighbor. When choosing a dealer, consider asking about its involvement in local causes — it’s a strong indicator of the dealership’s commitment to more than just profits.
Supporting the RV Community: Beyond general community involvement, it’s also important to see how a dealership engages with the RV community. Many RV owners are part of manufacturer-specific groups, like those from Tiffin, Winnebago, Forest River or Grand Design. These groups often hold local rallies or get-togethers — and a dealership that supports these events is one that values building relationships with RVers. If you’re part of such a group, don’t hesitate to ask a local dealer to sponsor a meal or event — they might just become a valuable partner in your RVing adventures.
The relationships built through these engagements go beyond transactions; they foster a sense of community and shared passion for the RV lifestyle. Dealerships that actively participate in or sponsor local RV events, from rallies to music festivals or sporting events, demonstrate their dedication to the RV community. It’s not just about selling RVs — it’s about supporting the experiences that make RVing special.
Supporting a Healthy RV Industry: Another way to gauge a dealership’s commitment is by its involvement in industry organizations like the RV Dealers Association (RVDA) or state-level associations. While these memberships might not directly impact your buying experience, they are crucial to maintaining a healthy industry that benefits all RVers.
For example, the RVDA has been advocating for better repair event cycle times, which directly affects how quickly you can get your RV serviced. It also focuses on educating dealers to certify their employees in areas like parts and service. When a dealer is involved in these associations, it’s a sign it is committed to the long-term health of the industry — and, by extension, the satisfaction of its customers.
Supporting Camping-Related Charities: Dealerships that support camping-related charities further demonstrate their commitment to the broader community. For instance, many RV manufacturers and dealerships, including Campers Inn RV, support Care Camps for Kids, a charity that provides outdoor experiences for children with cancer. We’re proud to match employee donations to this cause because we believe in investing in kids, camping and the future of the recreation industry. Supporting such causes may not yield immediate business benefits, but it’s a reflection of a dealer’s values and their dedication to the RV lifestyle.
The level of a dealership’s community involvement tells you a lot about its commitment to the RV lifestyle, a healthy industry and its local community. When you’re deciding where to buy your RV, remember that you’re not just purchasing a vehicle — you’re choosing a partner for your RV journey. Asking how a dealership gives back can reveal whether it cares about more than just the bottom line. Choose a dealer who shares your values and is invested in the same things you are — the joy of RVing and the strength of the community around it.
Ben Hirsch is the Chief Operating Officer of Campers Inn RV, the nation’s largest family-owned and operated RV dealer group with over 35 stores across the country. Ben joined the family business in 2013 and helped the company acquire or develop 30+ locations in 8 years. He previously served in the U.S. Army for 8 years, achieved the rank of Captain, and was a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter pilot. Ben is a graduate of West Point and holds an MBA from the Wharton Business School.