Barbecue for the Troops returns to Chicago area
DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. (WLS) -- For the second year in a row, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) and its dealer members are partnering with the USO of Illinois to host more than 60 Barbecue for the Troops community fundraising events. All of the proceeds directly support local military servicemen and women.
ABC 7 Eyewitness News is supporting the events. One of them is at Packey Webb Ford in suburban Downers Grove. John Webb, dealer principal, and Jessica Dolan, vice president of Business Development with USO of Illinois, joined us live from the dealership during our Saturday morning news to tell us about the events and the great cause they support.
You can visit www.DriveChicago.com to find a BBQ near you to help support local troops and their families. Last year, CATA member dealers raised $37,500, which was about 40 percent of the total funds raised nationally through this initiative. The USO of Illinois plans to publicly recognize the CATA with the Salute to Leadership Award during the USO Star-Spangled Salute Gala this fall.
If you cannot attend a barbecue event, you can still show your support for the troops on social media. Through July 21, submit your barbecue photos or videos with hashtag #BBQ4Troops on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to be entered to win barbecue-themed prizes!
BBQ for the Troops events
Saturday, July 19
11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Hashtag: #BBQ4Troops
About the Chicago Automobile Trade Association
Founded in 1904, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association is the nation's oldest and largest metropolitan dealer organization. It is comprised of more than 400 franchised new-car dealers and an additional 150 allied members. The group's dealer members employ about 19,000 people in the metropolitan area. The association has produced the world famous Chicago Auto Show since 1935. For more information please visit CATA.info.
About the USO of Illinois
The USO lifts the spirits of America's troops and their families. The mission of the USO is to enhance the quality of life of the U.S. Armed Forces personnel and their families and to create a cooperative relationship between U.S. military communities and involved or supporting civilian communities. The USO of Illinois is a civilian 501(c)(3) registered non-profit, not a government agency. It is supported solely by the generosity of the American people. For more information about the USO of Illinois, visit: www.usoofillinois.org.
