Young Members in the WBCCI

[airedale]

I know some people understand why younger Airstream Owners are not as active in the WBCCI, but I’m hoping to bring some light on the subject of younger members and what they can bring to the table. More than likely one of the youngest members of the WBCCI, at age 21, maybe I can help others understand what younger members are feeling.

First I would like to say this isn’t intended on a bashing session, and I would rather see that it didn’t become that. I’m simply stating how I feel about the WBCCI.

I only joined the WBCCI this year, but it was a Christmas gift that made me jump up and down, over and over, and over. I was so excited to become a member. I’m proud to say that I’m a member of the WBCCI and planning on attending this years International Rally in Bozeman, MT. However some people still wonder why younger people don’t share a passion like the older ones do. Well I have the answer. First is that they don’t have the resources to get their own Airstream. Let’s face it, people in there 20-30's can’t always afford an Airstream. They have other things on their plate that are more important. The cost of gas, WE ALL HATE IT, I understand, but as a young person, I work hard for my money, and I hate to see it go toward my gas tank. But I don’t have the power to change it as of now. Between the cost of the Airstream, gas, a TV if you don’t have one and then the dues for clubs, and nightly fees at campground, it almost always seems overwhelming. It doesn’t seem worth it. So how can we fix this? That’s a great question that I don’t even have the perfect answer for, but what I think is the club, its members, and families need to be more open to having younger members. That last statement I’m sure will make some people upset, and that’s not what I’m trying to do. But I have talked to some people who are not members of the WBCCI and asked them why they haven’t joined. Almost every time it’s because I hear it’s not a "Family Friendly Club," not meaning there is anything bad or wrong going on, but as far as families with younger kids, they don’t seemed to be welcomed. I’m not convinced that this as big of a problem as others think it is. Why do families think this, because they get the vibe and the feeling that older members don’t want to deal with screaming kids, ones that are crying, and have to be watched all the time. Well frankly, it’s not the older members that have to watch them, yes, if a child gets hurt, and starts to cry, we all look to make sure they are okay. That is what humans do, but is this really a bother? I don’t think so, simply human nature!

I know that when I go camping, I want to enjoy myself. Sit by the campfire with my chair and a cold drink and enjoy the weekend. However this doesn’t mean I don’t want to be a deciding factor in what happens with my unit or the club. I don’t want to look like the type of person who is venting and not willing to do anything about it. I plan on staying with the WBCCI and trying to work toward changes that I think would benefit all ages and all members. So if you see a younger person, or a family that are coming to a buddy rally, welcome them with open arms, try to convince them they are a part of the group like everyone else.

Now, for another issue. I don’t know what some people have against younger people running or being elected for leadership positions in the WBCCI, but if it happened to me, I would open my arms and feel thankful. Younger members are the future. Whether we like it or not, it’s the truth. Younger members that stay with the group for long periods of time are going to make sure the true meaning behind the WBCCI stay intact. Don’t be scared of younger members, you may find out they have the same feelings on issues as you do. I know this may sound like someone is running for the Oval Office, and I really don’t take the WBCCI THAT Seriously, but, I think it is important that younger people, and there decisions are going to one day be the voices for the club.

One last thing that I have seen in the WBCCI is some people take it TOO SERIOUSLY!!! Relax, enjoy yourself, don’t get all high and mighty. Sit by the fire, get a smore, and call it good. Don’t get me wrong, for those in leadership positions, there are responsibilities, but does that mean we can’t have a relaxing rally. Just an FYI to some, going over Bylaws, is not what I call fun. At least not at a rally!


I would like to see people do what Wally did. If there was a vote on something for the group, every camper had a vote, all but one that is. Wally didn’t vote. He wanted the vote to be from the group, whatever they wanted is what he wanted. If we had leaders like this in the WBCCI now, maybe we would have all the problems. But find me a club that doesn’t have issues. I haven’t been in one club yet that is perfect. We all have problems, but with all the problems over the past, the club hasn’t disappeared yet.

I hope this helps some understand the challenges that others face.

[airedale]

I understand the bylaws are a part of it, but to take time out of a rally for them, I think that is just silly. I know a lot about Roberts Rules, I served 8 years in the USAF Aux as a Cadet/Lt Col, I know all about having a leadership position, I just got out of it, and Im not sure if I want to jump back into one so quickly, after 8 years, I think i deserve a break!!

[goransons]

I'm 30 and my wife is counting the weeks until she is as well, and ultimately we've held off joining because in our area there are two issues for us (maybe not everyone).

From our observations over the last 10 months, there is little to nothing going on in Eastern Washington, though I've been talking back and forth with some forums members and people at Spokane Airstream to maybe get something going over here. We found it ironic that for a club for travel trailers, most events seem to be within a few miles of the same location (all at the headquarters)

Second, our limited contact with the chapter here has been slow, but the people were very nice. The issue we saw was exactly the disconnect I hear a lot about on here. We have friends just out of school (and former students still in college) all the way to great grandparents, but if joining a club, it would be nice if all age brackets were included in leadership, planning etc.

I think WBCCI is great for a lot of people, but don't see it marketed for all ages, more retirement age group (no offense) and less for 20's-30's-40's etc and young families

If enough interest gets going and it appears to be of a wide range of age groups, we're ready to jump on it in a heartbeat and become a member and help get a chapter going, but in the meantime, that 80 bucks a year can help offset the axles, tanks, curtains, cushions, appliances, etc and keep me out of the financial dog house a little.

[airedale]

But thats my point in this post. It seems that the club isnt really for younger people. But as a younger person, Im not willing to vent about it, and not do anything about it. This post is to try and open the eyes of older people to allow younger ones to feel more welcome and as a part of the group as a whole. We cant expect the WBCCI to change, just because we want it to, and feel it's in the best intrest. It will only change is people take action, and bring light to the subject.

[goransons]

I see your point, I'm just echoing it and pointing out problems here and our hope we can be part of the solution, but can't do it alone. Your points are very well said.

[Silvertwin]

Originally Posted by goransons

...in the meantime, that 80 bucks a year can help offset the axles, tanks, curtains, cushions, appliances, etc and keep me out of the financial dog house a little.

Well said! I hope all goes well with your area and finding/starting a club. As far as it goes here in Mich. clubs are everywhere its just the economy has got me down! My husbands job is dependent on the economy and if people aren't doing good then neither is he/us! The $80 can be very useful! But when we can there is nothing like relaxing together out with our AS (with or without the club)!

[airedale]

Originally Posted by goransons

I see your point, I'm just echoing it and pointing out problems here and our hope we can be part of the solution, but can't do it alone. Your points are very well said.

Thank you. Im hoping people in the higher leadership of the WBCCI read it, and understand where people like ourselves are coming from.

[UpNorthAir]

I don't know if it is such a problem that the "higher leadership" can deal with it as best as the local leadership can. I am 30 something with kids and also holding off on joining. I have looked up what is on the calander for the MI area and it seems that I can have lunch once a month and attend a rally in Iona, MI......... ..... Iona or the UP, I'm going to the UP .... but I understand its centralized local for the state rally.

OK, memebership would also give me acccess to rallies all over the world. Nice perk but realisticly I could make maybe one or two a year. So I will be looking for a "happining" rally somewhere...Lots of talk on forums, marketing, web pages, ect. The buzz and happenings seems to be with active units that go camping! This is where an individual can have the greatest impact, at the unit level. Organize small local rallies, promote other rallies, find places to boondock. I think "local" camp outs, maybe 4 hours max from home, would give most members the greatest reward. Remember if you are looking for new younger membership, we are not retired (would love to be) and maybe get 3 day weekends to go camping and a week for a vacation.

As far as WBCCI caravans go, great for some, but to rigid to do with kids for me.

Oh ya, as a memeber of the WBCCI we get a discount at selected campgrounds across America. Kewl perk but not a deciding factor for me in joining. 90% of time I stay at state parks or boondock, no discount there.

Just my 2cents, I hope I didn't step on toes

[henw]

WBCCI is a club of and for older people, or, those who think and act like seniors. Nothing wrong with that, but, that's the way it is. Super nice folks. The marches, the jackets and caps and badges, the anthems, all right out of the Lawrence Welk era. Ceremonies taken very seriously by those involved. But, OMG to someone witnessing for the first time.
Entertainment at bigger events is of second tier cruise ship quality.
The structure, rules, and limitations serve a purpose, but, can also be stifling. Working folks need to be able to arrive after hours and set up. Not sent to the dungeon or whatever it's called. If you forget to wear your name tag, no one should comment. If your trailer is parked a bit crooked. who cares.
Also, younger folks want use of the amenities that come with an AS. 3 amp electric is not OK. 30 amp around the clock is really nice. Lots of electronics to run and AC and coffee, and, who goes to bed at 10 pm?
Relaxation, flexibility, and adaptable structure.......add these and the campers will come.
Oh, and dinner hour is never 5 o'clock, unless you are retired I suppose.

Tom

[byamcaravanner]

Laura,

Great post! with young members like you, the WBCCI has a great future. Be patient and keep working toward crafting a club that you will be proud of.

Not kid friendly? I've heard this myself, but have to say that I have experienced the opposite. In a few days, we are off to attend the WDCU Cherry Blossom rally. We are taking our four kids and they cannot be more excited. They can't wait to meet the many other kids that will be in attendance. Lot's of activities planned for kids and "kids at heart." My local Wisconsin unit 116 has lots of kid friendly activities - May 16th-19th is the "Down on the Farm" rally - August 1st-4th is the "Camp Airstream" kids and grandkids rally... plus other rally where kids are just part of the party! My Blue Beret just arrived yesterday and I see they are working to set up a section for kids to contribute. I can't say that every event held by the WBCCI will be perfect for kids... but so far, I have been able to find more kid friendly activities than we will be able to attend.

To me, the thing to keep in mind is that with a club the size of the WBCCI, you are going to find a little of everything. Hook up with the members that are doing the stuff you like and stay away from the stuff you don't like. Work to strengthen the groups doing the fun stuff. The larger these groups get, the more power they will have to make change. There is nothing like the power of a large group of energetic people having fun :-)

Lastly, as 65GT said, learn the bylaws - keep an eye on the folks at the top - as a member, it's our responsibility. In a big organization, it's a long way to the top... which also means it's a long way to the bottom. It's easy for these folks to get focused on the numbers and not the people. We need to make sure they keep fresh in their mind, the success of events that are full of welcoming and fun filled members.

Good luck and thanks for choosing to be a member!

[Paul Ouellette]

Airedale :

I joined the WBCCI a few years ago...but let the membership laps out.

We attended the Int Rally a few years ago & it seemed (to the wife & I) that the association is "really" (to us) an extended place for older retired people that love their freedom, to flock together as a huge community.

Now don't get me wrong here...we enjoyed hanging out with the crowd from the Ontario unit (& we wouldn't hesitate to do this again) it's just that when we go somewhere & this

YouTube - Stompin' Tom Connors - Tillsonburg

is "the entertainment"...

Well, let's just say that...(IMHO) we feel that it's not just "the hats" that could use some updating to become a bit more current !!

[juel]

Hope you don't think the inability to purchase an Airstream rest just with the young. Some of us older folks experience the same financial constraints. We also just want to relax and have fun, because some of us are still working full time to support the vintage Airstream (s) we can afford. The quest for power and order can be found in all age groups. That's why we will never run out of politicians.

[Gator1]

Great Post, please stick with us!

I was 32 when I bought my first Airstream and joined WBCCI. We were indeed the youngest couple in our local unit and I was very apprehensive of joining. After arriving at our first rally, all of that wory went by the wayside! We were warmly welcomed along with our very small children. The people of that local unit (Tidewater VA Unit) made WBCCI the kind of group We want to be associated with!

Since I am still on active duty with the Navy, we move every two years. There have been some areas with less active clubs like are described and we were even MAL for a while. We are now members of WDCU and loving life. My children can't imagine life without our trailer and look forward to every trip.

If your local unit is too "old", there are others who are not. Find a unit that matches your needs. In my experience, the best part of WBCCI is the small, local rallies where there is nary a beret to be seen! Try them!

Jim

[Mackhopp]

Originally Posted by henw

WBCCI is a club of and for older people, or, those who think and act like seniors. Nothing wrong with that, but, that's the way it is. Super nice folks. The marches, the jackets and caps and badges, the anthems, all right out of the Lawrence Welk era. Ceremonies taken very seriously by those involved. But, OMG to someone witnessing for the first time.
.......... Oh, and dinner hour is never 5 o'clock, unless you are retired I suppose.

Tom

OMG is right. I'm 30-something and haven't joined for reasons as echoed above. I don't complain about the WBCCI as I'm doing nothing to help change things. But perhaps it's useful for those who want to save the WBCCI and return it to what Wally wanted to hear the opinions of those who haven't joined or who have let their memberships lapse.

My two cents' worth is that I think many more people (myself included) would be interested in joining if the club was run like Four Corners. From what I've heard, those guys look like they've got it down pat. Show up and camp, make new friends, sit around the campfire. Easy peasy, relaxing.....

[Buttercup]

I love this thread. and I am glad it is here.
I saw the phrase a few posts ago about WBCCI is not marketing itself towards the younger generation or something along those lines. I couldn't agree more! When you look at the Blue Beret you will find very little to entice the younger folks into wanting to join up. That is not a bash of the Blue Beret but it seriously needs an overhaul.
Secondly - I feel that any unit that does not understand that the younger folks are not retired and therefore can not always spend time to go to every rally. And that being the case, they should not be punished for not contributing as much as the retired members. My wife and I were told once that we had only attended a few rallies with our previous unit so we really didnn't have a say in what goes on with the unit. That was a shocker! So we joined a unit that does like having us around (I think) and things have been fine ever since.
So this is perhaps my point. If you put yourself in the younger member category (I don't because I am 44 years old and have no kids at home so I do have more free time on my hands then most younger folks) and you are in a unit that doesn't quite fit your needs - do look around for one that does and support that unit. For just as our children are the future of this world, and just as we must hand this world over to them, so the future of this club IS in it's younger members and the future of the WBCCI is dependant on younger, energetic folks, stepping up to the plate in any capacity (even if it is only participating).
I love the example of the "We can tow it" rally!

[airedale]

Wow, I have gotten more responses than I thought. Maybe I should clear some things up. I never said that my unit wasnt working for me. I love my unit, although there is a older crowd, there is a younger crowd. Im the youngest, but there is a member that is 22, and one that is 24. (my sister) The younger crowd is working its way. We had some people that didnt like it as much, but I think our unit is good to us. Also, with children, our unit is good in that department, or I should say getting better. We have a Christmas in July rally, and the kids have a ton of fun things, including seeing Santa and getting a gift from him! So when I was making comments in my post, I didnt mean I have seen this all from one unit, or heard it all from one person. I have been talkinging to people for awhile.

Thank you all for your support

[Buttercup]

Originally Posted by airedale

Maybe I should clear some things up. I never said that my unit wasnt working for me. I love my unit, although there is a older crowd, there is a younger crowd. Im the youngest, but there is a member that is 22, and one that is 24. (my sister) The younger crowd is working its way.

Yes - I had the feeling things were going good for you. But I do know that plenty of younger members had stated more than once that they did not feel like they fit in. You obviously do witth your unit and I am quite glad for that.
We are in the VAC and for us that really means a lot. In fact, my wife wanted to join the VAC from the moment she first heard about it. Now we volunteer our time with them and are trying to help make it a great club and intra club. We truely do love the WBCCI and especially the history.

[airedale]

Yea, I was thinking about joining the VAC, havent done it yet, but I will. Also Upnorthair said something about the lower leadership. I think that if every unit did something small it would make a big diffrence, but what I ment as far as the Higher Leadership, they are wanting to pass this Moho 2 act, and well, that make us look so stupid if you ask me. Also the White tux's, I couldnt believe that when I first heard that. I know its just for officers, but COME ON PEOPLE. It serioulsy makes us look stuck up!! Thats what I ment as far as higher leadership, if they would look at the bigger picture, and see what would benifit the club as a whole, we would be doing a lot better!

[Buttercup]

You are echoing the thoughts that so many have and the basis for the impressions that many have that the WBCCI is just an old folks club. Well, it isn't but it is hard to shake off that image.
Airstreams are selling like hot cakes and the vintage movement is very strong. So why isn't the club?? Perception.
BTW, I am the membership for the VAC and if you are interested in joining, PM me your email address and I will send you some goodies.

tk

Originally Posted by airedale

Yea, I was thinking about joining the VAC, havent done it yet, but I will. Also Upnorthair said something about the lower leadership. I think that if every unit did something small it would make a big diffrence, but what I ment as far as the Higher Leadership, they are wanting to pass this Moho 2 act, and well, that make us look so stupid if you ask me. Also the White tux's, I couldnt believe that when I first heard that. I know its just for officers, but COME ON PEOPLE. It serioulsy makes us look stuck up!! Thats what I ment as far as higher leadership, if they would look at the bigger picture, and see what would benifit the club as a whole, we would be doing a lot better!

[airedale]

Well, Im glad that Im not the only one that feels this way. Sometimes I wonder how long until the club changes, however, I know that people over the age of 55 make about 70 percent of the club, but it would just be nice to see everyone treated the same!