Kampgrounds of America renewed its dedication to corporate social responsibility (CSR) through the recent submission of its 2023 Outdoor CEO Pledge Report. This milestone showcases what the company calls its “unwavering commitment to enhancing the camping experience while championing diversity, sustainability and accessibility.”
“The Outdoor CEO Pledge marked our initial stride in the journey toward learning about and focusing work on diversity, equity and inclusion,” said Toby O’Rourke, president and CEO. “Since that initial pledge, we’ve forged a comprehensive Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, bringing together our DEI, sustainability and philanthropy work. Our vision intertwines these pillars, purposefully ensuring the great outdoors is, and remains, accessible for generations to come.”
Within the report, Kampgrounds of America highlights many initiatives that underscore its dedication to CSR:
Kampgrounds of America Foundation: A milestone in KOA’s CSR journey is the establishment of the Kampgrounds of America Foundation. This foundation is funded by 1% of pre-tax profits and is dedicated to supporting the company’s mission of enriching lives through memorable outdoor experiences.
Get Out There Bag: In collaboration with ANKER, KOA has launched the “Get Out There Bag” initiative, aimed at enabling minority youth to embrace the great outdoors.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI): In 2023 and 2024, KOA will continue its DEI work with an added emphasis on accessibility. This initiative will produce industry reports, accessible campground designs, and revamped HR initiatives, reflecting KOA’s commitment to making outdoor adventures inclusive. Notably, the 2023 North American Outdoor Hospitality and Camping Report reveals that 4-in-10 campers have some form of physical limitation, underscoring the importance of making outdoor experiences accessible to all.
Gold LEED Certification: KOA is raising the bar for sustainability by achieving Gold LEED Certification for its new corporate headquarters, scheduled to open in October 2023 in Billings, Montana.
Solar-Powered “Recharge Stations”: To reduce environmental impact, KOA is implementing solar-powered “Recharge Stations” across campgrounds, providing sustainable power options coupled with seating to benefit both campground design and camper experience.
EV Charging Solutions: In alignment with the global shift towards electric vehicles, KOA is actively working on EV charging solutions and eco-conscious campground architecture to facilitate sustainable travel choices for campers.
