COMMUNITY
Grand Design Gives Back
At Grand Design, we believe in the power of community and the importance of making a positive impact. This year, we were fortunate to work alongside incredible owners and team members to support various causes, both near and far. From heartfelt donations to hands-on volunteer work, we’ve had the privilege of giving back in many meaningful ways. As our Impact Team’s mission states, “It’s about creating meaningful connections and enhancing the RVing experience for everyone.”
Giving Back to Our Furry Friends!
At the beginning of 2024, we were able to come together to support the Tampa Bay Humane Shelter. Thanks to the generosity of some of our Grand Design owners who attended our VIP event, we were able to make a significant donation to help care for and rehome animals in need.
In October, a group of 10 Grand Design RV owners joined forces and gave their time to support the Freeman-Fritts Vet Clinic and Animal Shelter during the Grand Design Texas Fall Rally. Outdoors, our team worked hard to clean and prepare the newly planned "catio" area while also providing grounds maintenance to the surrounding yards. Indoors, volunteers helped tidy up and clean while enjoying the playful antics of the resident kitties!
"These RV owners are passionate about the communities they visit and are truly some of the nicest people we have ever met," said one of the Freeman-Fritts staffers after the event.
Rolling Up Our Sleeves to Save Lives!
The GDRV Impact Team hosted two successful blood drives toward the end of this year, making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.
Texas Fall Rally: Our goal was 19 donors, and we surpassed that with 28 donations! This equaled 84 lives impacted!
North Florida Rally: Our goal was 10 donors, and we surpassed that with 19 donations! This equaled 57 lives impacted!
To find a location near you to donate blood, you can visit the American Red Cross.
Partnering for a Purpose
Throughout the year, we made it a priority to give back through volunteer work. One of our most impactful efforts was spending time at the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Michiana (RMHC), where our team helped provide support to families staying there. Whether through preparing meals, organizing activities, or simply offering a helping hand, we were honored to be part of such a special place that offers comfort and care to families in need.
Grand Design also launched a new initiative where proceeds from specific shirt sales benefit a related charity. In September, Grand Design focused on Childhood Cancer, raising money for the RMHC, and in October, we focused on Breast Cancer, with proceeds supporting The National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. We have more on the calendar for 2025, so please watch your email for updates.
Appreciation for the Cause
"We are so grateful for the partnership with Grand Design and their continued support of our mission. From the special t-shirt design that raised funds for our families to raising awareness for the work we do in our community; we cannot thank Emily and her team enough."
-Kellie Montgomery, Director of Operations, RMHC Michiana
Thanks to the support of our amazing GDRV owners, we were able to present RMHC of Michiana with a check for $2,765 from t-shirt sales and donations! A heartfelt thank you to all who purchased shirts, donated, and supported this cause, as well as to St. Andrews Products for assisting with shirt sales.
ADEC Silver Bullets Basketball Team
We had the honor of working with ADEC, an organization that proudly advocates for and serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to sponsor the ADEC Silver Bullets Basketball team. The incredible group of ADEC athletes plays teams in the local area including our very own ‘GD & the Nets’. This program helps those involved experience being part of a team, the joy of competition, and ongoing personal growth. We’re proud to support their journey and we’re excited to cheer them on throughout the season.
Building and Decorating Birdhouses with Local Youth
Giving back isn’t just about writing a check; sometimes it’s about rolling up our sleeves and getting involved. This year, we had the opportunity to work with the local Boys and Girls Club to build and decorate birdhouses on Earth Day. Not only did this project encourage creativity, but it also helped foster a sense of environmental stewardship, teaching the younger generation about the importance of nature and wildlife preservation.
A Year in Review... Team Highlights
This year, our Impact Team proudly supported Prom Squad, an incredible initiative led by team member, Cortney Spencer. Partnering with GDRV, Seint Makeup, David's Bridal, Parklane Jewelry, local hair stylists, and many more, Cortney provided four young women from her local Indiana community with a full prom makeover. From stunning dresses and jewelry to professional hair and makeup (all done in Cortney’s Grand Design Solitude), these students were treated to an unforgettable experience that left them feeling empowered, beautiful, and valued; and we’re so honored and proud to have been a part of it!
This year, our partnership with Cultivate Food Rescue at the GDRV National Rally was nothing short of extraordinary. With the help of 40 incredible volunteers, we packed an impressive 3,193 meals, sorted through 14,000 pounds of food, and ensured over 2,000 children had enough to eat throughout the weekend. This effort provided essential support to local families in need and showcased the profound impact a few hours of service can make!
The Campoholics wowed their audience at the Grand Design National Rally with their RV Tips and Tricks seminar. The session was such a hit that it filled the auditorium to maximum capacity! To accommodate the demand, a second-time slot was added, allowing even more rally-goers to benefit from their practical advice and entertaining delivery. Their dedication and expertise made a lasting impression on many GDRV owners, and we’re proud to have them as part of our Impact Team!
In the middle of the year, we brought some holiday cheer with our Christmas in July event. Thanks to our generous owners, we were able to collect toys for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program, a program whose mission is to collect new unwrapped toys and distribute them to economically disadvantaged children at Christmas. This ensured that children in need would have gifts to open during the holiday season. It was a fun and festive way to spread some joy during the summer months and support a great cause.
Our volunteering efforts did not stop in the United States. They expanded across the northern border into Canada. Our commitment to preserving the beauty of the places we love to explore too us to Banff National Park in Canada. As part of a Trans-Canadian Highway Clean-Up Day, our team worked alongside local volunteers to help keep this stunning area clean and pristine for future generations. In addition, we participated in trail inspection training, ensuring that these beautiful landscapes remain protected for years to come.
Plans For an Even Bigger Impact in The Year Ahead!
As we close out this year, we’re filled with gratitude for everything we’ve accomplished and excitement for what’s to come. Looking to next year, we’re proud of the work we’ve done this year, and we’re excited to continue making a positive impact in 2025. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. Together, we are creating a better world—one act of kindness at a time.
Want to Learn More About the Impact Team?
Our Mission
At Grand Design RV, we believe in more than just building great RVs; we believe in making a positive impact wherever the road takes us. Led by Emily Stahley, our company's outreach program director, the Impact Team embodies this spirit with dedicated members from the Grand Design community, each contributing their unique skills and passions to enrich lives across the country.
Meet the Impact Team
Keith and Raini Harris
Keith and Raini Harris, who live full-time in their Grand Design Solitude, lead our volunteer and outreach initiatives. Their commitment to community service shines through at each GDRV rally they attend, organizing events like food drives and local community support activities for rallygoers to attend.
When not at rallies, they travel the country organizing outreach opportunities and events for anyone in the area who wants to join! Their motto is simple; “giving back to the communities that we love to visit!”
Mike and Missy Cook from the Campoholics
Known affectionately as “The Campoholics”, Mike and Missy Cook bring their extensive knowledge of RVing to the GDRV rally community through educational seminars, which are not only informative but filled with humor and insights from their personal experiences on the road. Living full-time in their Grand Design Momentum, they are always happy to share their knowledge on the latest and greatest products within the industry and oftentimes give fellow RVers walkthroughs of their gorgeous rig!
Our Impact
The Impact Team at Grand Design RV serves as the heart of our community outreach. From educational seminars that enhance the RV lifestyle to providing opportunities for RVers to volunteer their time, our actions are guided by a commitment to positive impact and community support. Each event and initiative taken on by the team members not only serves local communities but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among RVers.