Re: [VACList] free Membership in WBCCI and VAC / Assigning Trailer Numbers

["Scott Scheuermann" <s.l.scheuermann@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hex,

The free membership program for WBCCI was dropped. They found that after the
free year people were not renewing their membership. In most cases these
people never made the effort to get involved with their local unit. New
members who paid for their membership were much more likely to get involved
and renew.

Generally inactive numbers will be reissued. However there is a waiting
period to see if the last member will change his/her mind and renew. I do
not know how long that period is. The waiting period does not apply if you
have a signed release from the prior member.

No, they will not furnish a list of available numbers. All members receive a
membership directory. Among other things it lists the active numbers. Seven
years ago when I joined I included a letter explaining my situation, my
grandparents were members and I had their old trailer. I asked for their old
number, I also gave them a couple of backup numbers if "mine" was
unavailable. HQ called me to inform me that my first choice was taken. But
they were very happy to assist with me and I received my second choice. With
the increase in people asking for a particular number I do not know if they
are still so accommodating. This is a far cry from the old days where you
just got the next available number, no reissuing. In contacting them be
nice, they are usually very nice back to you.

I believe that the only numbers available for someone who does not hold
office within the WBCCI at the international level are 4 and some 5 digit
numbers. The highest number given was somewhere near 32000. They will not go
higher than that.

They DO NOT LIKE people changing their numbers, but it can be done. I hope
to do it when "my" number becomes available as it surely will if I am
patient.

The VAC does not give out free memberships. The few honorary members we
have, have worked hard for that recognition.

Scott