Evansville Area Jeepers

Evansville Area Jeepers (EAJ) is a large, family-oriented Jeep community based in Southwest Indiana. Founded in 2014, the club has grown into a highly active organization with over 7,000 members, combining off-road adventure with strong charitable impact.

Club Overview

Founded: September 2014
Founder: Ryan Sermersheim
Location: Evansville, Indiana (Tri-State area: IN, KY, IL)
Structure: Evansville Area Jeepers, LLC

Mission:

• Maximize the Jeep experience
• Promote safe, responsible off-roading
• Give back to the community

Membership Structure

EAJ offers both free and premium participation levels.

Standard Membership

• Join via Facebook group
• Cost: Free
• Open to all Jeep enthusiasts

EAJ+ Elite Membership

Cost: $25/year

Benefits:

• Access to exclusive members-only trail rides
• Invitation to annual Christmas Party
• Discounts with local and national sponsors

Important Dates:

• Enrollment opens: November 1
• Christmas Party eligibility deadline: October 31

Community Impact

EAJ is widely recognized for its real-world impact—especially during emergencies.

Operation Snowflake

A standout initiative that turns Jeeps into lifesaving transportation.

Purpose:

• Transport healthcare workers and emergency personnel during severe winter weather

Coverage Area:

• Vanderburgh County (IN)
• Jasper (IN)
• Henderson (KY)

How It Works:

• Dedicated dispatch line during storms
• Fully volunteer-driven
• First-come, first-served ride coordination

Major Events & Activities

EAJ hosts a wide range of events for all experience levels.

Charity Events

Wheelin’ For a Cause (Cystic Fibrosis Ride):

• Held at Interlake SRA
• Raised ~$17,000 in its first year

Back the Blue Ride:

• Supports law enforcement initiatives
• Benefits programs like Cops Connecting with Kids

Community & Show Events

• 4×4, Truck & Jeep Shows (with local sponsors like Lux Motors)
• Ritzy’s Fantasy of Lights participation
• Fundraisers and seasonal events

Off-Roading & Social Activities

• Trail rides (stock-friendly to advanced)
• Meet-and-greets
• Jeep cruises and gatherings

Community Culture

EAJ is known for its strong identity and tight-knit atmosphere.

“Jeep Family” Mentality:

• Members often refer to themselves as “Jeeples”

Jeep Culture:

• Strong adherence to the Jeep Wave tradition

Inclusive Environment:

• Welcomes all skill levels and build types

Service-Oriented:

• Heavy focus on giving back and helping others

Resources

• Website: evvjeep.com
• Facebook Group: Evansville Area Jeepers
• Official Page: @EVVJeep