Escapees RV Club, an organization for RVers with 70,000 members, announced Harvest Hosts will take over the management and operations of its membership, support services, educational programs and events.
The message to members was signed by the Carr family – Cathie and Bud, plus son Travis and daughter-in-law Melanie.
“After much emotional reflection and heartfelt discussions about what is best for our members, we, the Carr family, are writing to inform you that the management and operations of Escapees RV Club’s membership, support services, educational programs and events will be transitioning to the Harvest Hosts family. This transition excludes the Escapees Mail Service and Escapees RV Parks, which will remain under existing management and ownership. This decision was not made lightly, and it comes from our sincere desire for the club’s continued growth and success,” the announcement said.
“While we have been approached by other companies before, we have never felt the devotion to shared values and instilled trust as we have with Harvest Hosts. The legacy of Escapees RV Club and our family history means more to us than most will ever know. We can confidently say Joe and Kay would give their blessing, and our family couldn’t be more assured of Harvest Hosts and their wish to carry on the Escapees torch, reignited and brighter than ever.”
The message noted three key factors that had to be met before passing the torch:
- They must have a compass that is guided by ethics and a caring philosophy.
- They must be service-oriented, diverse and have a strong belief in the Escapees community as a whole.
- They must be willing to take good care of existing Escapees staff.
“Harvest Hosts is a company that shares our values and dedication to the RV community. They have a strong moral compass and a philosophy centered around care and community, demonstrated by the fact that they do not charge Hosts anything. Instead, their members contribute approximately $50 million in total revenue to the Hosts, which are local businesses, ultimately funneling money back into local economies,” the announcement said.
“CEO Joel Holland, who has been an Escapees member for several years, brings a personal commitment to the community and its values. His involvement in the Escapees community underscores his dedication to maintaining the core philosophies that have defined Escapees RV Club since its inception. Harvest Hosts is honored to carry the torch and be good and earnest stewards of the Escapees brand, ensuring its legacy continues to thrive.
With these values and commitments, we are confident that Harvest Hosts will bring exciting new opportunities and benefits to you, our valued members.”
Escapees members will receive regular updates and detailed information throughout the process. Current benefits and services as Escapees RV Club members will continue without interruption.
Escapees Mail Service, the mail service members rely on during travels, will continue to remain under existing management and control.
SKP Co-Ops will continue to be an Escapees RV Club member-only benefit owned and managed by members of the Co-Ops. The eight Escapees RV Parks will also remain under existing management and control.
“Thank you once again for your loyalty and support. We look forward to continuing this journey together with Harvest Hosts and our continued service to Escapees members long into the future! We will always be here for our Escapees family and to welcome you home at 100 Rainbow Drive,” Escapees said in its announcement.
Read the full message and FAQ section here.