“I always learn something new when working the KPOA. Things like how to cut branches from a tree to reservations systems. Having someone to vent to, about customers, is nice too.” (~M. Atkinson, Walnut Grove RV Park)
After purchasing my park in December of 2016 one of the things the previous owner suggested was to attend the then KPOA annual conference in February which turned out to be the best advice he could have given me.
Since my entire background was in customer service I really had no knowledge of the unique operational aspects of an RV park. At that first annual conference, I learned more in one day than I would have learned in a year of “on the job training”. In addition, the relationships I formed with my fellow campground owners that day are still an asset to me today, almost 5 years later.
The relationships and networking connections I have formed through my membership in KPOA are invaluable. In addition to having “go to” resources to reach out to for advice, we also share camper referrals and ideas to build our businesses. Involvement in KPOA is a WIN, WIN, WIN for everyone!
Through my involvement in KPOA I was exposed to TIAK (Travel Industry Association of Kansas) which has expanded my industry knowledge and connections exponentially. I would never have found this resource if it were not for my KPOA membership!
I am very grateful for the active role KPOA plays in monitoring legislative issues impacting our industry and for the opportunity I have as a campground owner to support the organization in advocating for laws and policies that will help all campground owners.
One of the most value added investment expenses our campground invests in each year is our membership in KPOA! In addition to the networking and educational opportunities that come along with membership, having a professional organization constantly monitoring the industry and communicating issues I need to be aware of is invaluable. The ARVC membership that is part of our KPOA membership also adds tremendous value to our investment. All of this makes the decision to renew membership in KPOA each year a no brainer for us!
Having the opportunity to serve on the Board of Directors for KPOA has been a real learning experience that I truly value. While membership in KPOA provides many benefits, being an ACTIVE member amplifies those benefits and offers a campground owner the opportunity to play a role in shaping the future of their organization.
My advice to any KPOA member is to increase their level of involvement in the organization …… your involvement will pay dividends and you will not regret it! (~R. Lord, Rutlader Outpost RV Park)