Charlene Greer never set out to become a trailblazer in the off-road world—she simply wanted a Jeep. But what started as a personal adventure soon became a mission of empowerment, leadership, and community impact. As the force behind Jeep Beach, the world’s largest Jeep-exclusive event, Greer is proving that success isn’t just about driving forward—it’s about bringing others along for the ride.
Her journey began in 2012 with the purchase of a white Jeep, lovingly named “The Lost Shaker.” It was more than just a vehicle; it was a symbol of stepping into a new chapter of life. “It was my way of shedding the ‘mom tank’ and embracing something new,” she says. But she never imagined it would lead her to helm an event that now draws Jeep enthusiasts from all 50 states and 34 countries, generating nearly half a billion dollars in economic impact for Daytona Beach.
When Greer took the reins of Jeep Beach in 2017, it was a well-loved local gathering. Under her leadership, it has grown into an international sensation—one that isn’t just about off-road vehicles, but about building a strong, connected community. “At its core, Jeep Beach is about people,” Greer explains. “The Jeep lifestyle is welcoming, inclusive, and full of camaraderie. But what really drives me is knowing that this event is making a difference.”
That difference is significant. Jeep Beach has raised over $4.8 million for local charities, funding initiatives that support children, veterans, and mental health resources. One cause particularly close to Greer’s heart is the Pace School for Girls, which provides young women with education and mentorship. “I want them to know they belong, that there’s always space for them to succeed,” she says. “And if a Jeep can help drive that message home, even better.”
Leading in a male-dominated space wasn’t without its challenges. “When I first took over, I was new to the Jeep world and stepping into a field where men had long been at the helm,” Greer recalls. “But they didn’t know who they were dealing with,” she adds with a laugh.
Instead of seeing obstacles, she built a team of experts, surrounding herself with seasoned professionals like automotive veteran Randy Dye and advisor Mike Mills. “I didn’t need to prove myself alone—I needed the right people by my side,” she says. That collaborative approach has not only fueled Jeep Beach’s success but also reinforced her belief that leadership is about lifting others up.
Beyond the high-energy off-road events, Greer remains deeply committed to philanthropy. Through Jeep Beach, she has partnered with organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, Council on Aging, and Easter Seals, ensuring that the event’s impact extends well beyond the trails. “Seeing the real, tangible difference we’re making—that’s what keeps me going,” she says.
As Jeep Beach continues to grow, so does Greer’s vision. She’s not just steering an event—she’s creating a movement, one that empowers women, strengthens communities, and proves that sometimes, the best roads are the ones you forge yourself.
And for those wondering whether they, too, can take the wheel in their own journey, Greer has one simple message: Shift gears, push forward, and never be afraid to take the road less traveled.