FMCA chapters

Family Motor Coach Association was formed in 1963 by a group of people who owned a relatively new type of vehicle. This recreation vehicle later came to be known as a motorhome.

As the association gained popularity, its members quickly realized that the best way to enjoy fellowship on a regular basis was to form subgroups, or chapters.

FMCA chapters serve a vital function within the organization, as membership in these subgroups enhances members’ enjoyment of FMCA. In addition to lasting friendships, chapter affiliation creates forums for exchanging information about a common model coach or about a particular hobby or activity.

Types of chapters
Many FMCA chapters cover specific or general geographic areas. Their names either directly refer to those areas or suggest the vicinity of their scopes by using words descriptive of their areas.

In addition, FMCA has many local and regional chapters with names that do not indicate the boundaries of their scopes.

"Coach-make" chapters also are popular with FMCA members. These chapters may be local, regional, national or international.

The International Area consists of chapters not bound by geographic area, such as those dedicated to a motorhome brand, a hobby or a special interest.

Special-interest groups served by FMCA chapters include handicapped RVers, single RVers, golfers, NASCAR fans, and gaming aficionados, as well as service-related groups such as Habitat for Humanity.

How to join a chapter  
Call the Chapter Services department at (800) 543-3622. Or, visit a chapter that you’re interested in. FMCA members may join as many chapters as they like.

Chapter activities
In addition to FMCA's 10 area rallies, hundreds of chapters hold smaller-scale rallies and activities throughout the year. Anyone with a motorhome who is not an FMCA member is welcome to attend most rallies. Some gatherings, however, have limited space and require reservations.

FMCA.com's online event calendar lists chapter rally dates and locations. Chapter rallies are also listed in the Association Calendar in Family Motor Coaching magazine.

Chapters and governance
The best way for FMCA members to have input into the operation of the association is through membership in a chapter

Each FMCA chapter has its own bylaws and officers. One of the officers must be a national director. That person represents the chapter on the national Governing Board, which elects FMCA's 14 national officers, adopts the annual budget and approves policies of the association.

For more information, contact the Chapter Department, (800) 543-3622; chapters@fmca.com

FMCA Chapter Search
www.fmca.com/chapters/search/index.asp