Habitat for Humanity Care-A-Vanners

At LARSON, we put people first. We’re devoted to our employees and their families, our customers, and our communities. 

LARSON employees volunteer their time, talents and resources to over 100 different non-profit organizations in their local communities. Habitat for Humanity initiatives thrive in the communities we serve.  Building our communities one house at a time is a belief strongly supported by LARSON, for nearly thirty years. 

One of our favorite Habitat for Humanity initiatives is hosting Care-A-Vanners at our corporate office every summer.

What is a Habitat for Humanity Care-A-Vanner? Care-A-Vanners are road warriors that enjoy adventure! They volunteer for Habitat for Humanity builds throughout the United States and Canada, traveling in their RVs! They are a great resource on a Habitat build site, stick building the home, drywalling, installing finishes, painting and roofing. 

Since 2010, the LARSON Manufacturing parking lot, adjacent to beautiful LARSON Park, is home to Habitat for Humanity Care-A-Vanners as they volunteer in our communities or make a stop on their way to a nearby Habitat build. Care-A-Vanners camp in our backyard without having to worry about paying campground fees. They also have access to many of our amenities - like our kitchen, fitness center, restrooms and hot showers! LARSON staff members greet Care-A-Vanners with gift bags and information about the area, providing ideas and resources for enjoyable night and weekend activities.  

"That’s one thing the Care-A-Vanners always love about staying there, is that they can stay without paying a site fee, which is a huge deal when you’re a full time volunteer," said Jake McGlade, Brookings Area Habitat for Humanity Volunteer Coordinator.  "Another thing they appreciate is the warm shower!  Most places don’t offer additional facilities like LARSON does for them, so taking a hot shower can be a big deal to a Care-A-Vanner." 

In a typical year, the Brookings Area Habitat for Humanity organization hosts around 35 Care-A-Vanners throughout the summer.

"They bring a ton of experience to the builds.  Not only are they extremely knowledgeable in the building process, but they give us a ton of ideas," said McGlade. 

Learn more about Habitat for Humanity Care-A-Vanners and sign up to be a volunteer!