In the words of Lao-Tzu, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."
Our first step took place in the spring of 2005, when a group of Lazydays employees came together with the idea of making a difference in the lives of children.
Inspired by our founder, Don Wallace, and his family foundation, we decided to form our own foundation made up of employees. By pooling our resources, we hoped to make a bigger impact than any of us could make on our own. We put together a board of directors consisting of RV technicians, salespeople, clerical staff and the receptionist who greets our customers.
Our first great achievement was gaining IRS approval in the record-breaking time of less than four months. It wasn't long before 50 percent of Lazydays employees had signed on for weekly payroll deductions. Even when money was tight due to the recession, our motto remained, "We pay the kids first."
Those who couldn't afford to give up part of their paychecks soon found their own way to make a difference. The Dream Team was formed to offer hands-on assistance and professional skills to those in our community who have the kids' best interests at heart.
More than anything else, the Lazydays Employee Foundation is testimony to what can be achieved when individuals harness their energy into a collective force to benefit the community.