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Curt McAllister, the Midwest Public Relations Manager at Toyota
Motor North America, recently discussed various aspects of Toyota's
involvement in the outdoor industry. Covering 14 states in the
South from Tennessee to the West Dakotas, Curt oversees the Outdoor
Communications at the national level and is a key figure in the
Association of Great Lakes Outdoor Writers.
During the discussion, Curt highlighted Toyota's commitment to
giving back to the outdoors, exemplified by their sponsorship of
events like Bass Masters, Major League Fishing, and support for
environmental projects. Toyota's involvement extends to funding
initiatives like the Bison Project with the Sioux tribe and
sponsoring National Public Lands Day for 25 years.
As an Executive Board Member of Aglow, a scholarship program
started nine years ago, Curt emphasized the importance of
attracting younger members to keep the organization vibrant. The
Toyota Let’s Go Places scholarships program, part of Aglow, covers
travel, registration, and first-year membership, offering
mentorship and job assistance.
The conversation also delved into Toyota's vehicles, such as the
Sequoia twin turbo V6 Hybrid and the upcoming Land Cruiser designed
for off-road adventures. Curt addressed the issue of high pricing,
attributing it to inflation and emphasizing Toyota's disapproval of
price padding by dealers.
In terms of initiatives, Toyota sponsors Bass Masters, has a
fishing team as part of NASCAR, and actively contributes to
environmental sustainment goals, focusing on pollinators and
supporting habitats for butterflies, bees, and bats in 13 states.
The Bison Project, managed by Native Americans, stands out as the
largest of its kind.
Throughout the discussion, Curt emphasized Toyota's commitment
to a family environment and respect for the earth, aligning with
their overarching goal of contributing positively to both the
automotive and outdoor communities.
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