Dealer members of the Chicago Automobile Trade Association employ about 20,000 people throughout Chicagoland, CATA chairman Bill Haggerty said in a news release.
And those dealers have established deep roots within their communities, he said.
“So, when the opportunity for dealers to host BBQ for the Troops fundraisers was presented to us, the dealers seized the opportunity,” Haggerty said.
On July 13, dealers will seize that opportunity again. CATA and its dealer members, partnering with the USO of Illinois, will for the seventh consecutive year host Barbecue for the Troops grassroots community fundraising events throughout the area.
As of press time, 110 dealerships have pledged to support the cause. They will provide that support by offering events and activities such as patriotic ceremonies, classic car shows, live music, and games for children of all ages.
And barbecue, of course.
CATA dealers have raised more than $750,000 over the past six years — by hosting more than 500 fundraisers — to support USO of Illinois programs and services. The association said that with those funds, the USO of Illinois can support more than 326,000 service members and their families each year. The month of July is still young, but the CATA reports it has already received a $5,000 contribution from Ally Bank. Ally’s donation honored CATA dealer and Apple Chevrolet principal John Alfirevich, who is based in Tinley Park, for his honor of being named 2019 Time Dealer of the Year. Ally is a presenting sponsor of the award.
Those who can’t visit a USO Barbecue for the Troops event on July 13 can still get involved via social media. The CATA and USO of Illinois are now accepting contest entries for the Ultimate Backyard Barbecue. The winner will receive a Real Urban Barbecue catered meal, with Chicago Blackhawks ambassador Chris Chelios making a guest appearance. Submit your nominations via the contest entry form or upload a photo and caption with #BBQ4Troops tagging @DriveChicago on Twitter or @Drive_Chicago on Instagram. The winner will be announced around Aug. 1.
The Drive Chicago site shows the full listing of CATA dealer USO Barbecue for the Troops fundraisers.
“The USO Barbecue for the Troops program has raised more than $750,000 to support local troops and their families,” said USO of Illinois president and chief executive officer Alison Ruble. “The support of service members’ hometown communities and local new-car dealerships has allowed the USO of Illinois to aid more than 326,000 service members and their families annually through hundreds of programs and services. Neighbors helping neighbors through initiatives like Barbecue for the Troops makes communities even stronger, and joining your local dealership for their BBQ in July is a great way to get involved. From the USO of Illinois and all those who serve our nation, we thank you for your generous support.”
“The USO Barbecue for the Troops initiative is one great example of the vital role that dealers play to help people in need, right in their backyard,” Haggerty said.
Source : AutoFinanceNews
