USO's Clark After Dark block party benefits military members and their families

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The USO Clark After Dark block party is being held Thursday night. The annual event benefits hundreds of thousands of military members and their families.

For the 11th year, the USO of Illinois partnered with 42nd Ward Alderman Brandon Reilly, Boss Bar and Jewel-Osco for the downtown block party on Clark between Hubbard and Kinzie. The party featured live music from Sixteen Candles and Liquidated Damages, and food form Chicago Cut, Bub City, Mozzarepas, Roll'd Up and more.

The USO Clark After Dark block party is being held Thursday night.

"There is a lot of conflict going on and we have Illinois troops right here are out on the front lines right now," said Alison Ruble, president of USO of Illinois.

About 3,000 people packed Clark and Kinzie to support those troops, consuming the eats, drinks and music the city is famous for.

The Chicago Automobile Trade Association will also be on hand to present the USO of Illinois with a check for $146,500 raised during July's BBQ for the Troops.

"We hope that when it's all said and done we're going to have $900,000 collected in seven years," said Bill Haggerty, Chicago Automobile Trade Association.

The annual event benefits hundreds of thousands of military members and their families.

"Not a lot of people know that there's actually a unit here in Chicago, so the fact that people come out to support us, highly appreciate it," said Sgt. Cesar Rodarte.

"It feels good. There is a lot of support out here, so it is good that the community comes out and they support us, we feel appreciated, so it's nice," said Sgt. Alysa Fletcher.