Chicago Automobile Trade Association Teams up with the USO of Illinois to Host Fundraiser Barbecues for the Troops on July 20

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Chicago Automobile Trade Association

Jul 09, 2013, 02:00 ET

CHICAGO, July 9, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On a mission to raise awareness and funds for local troops and their families, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) has enlisted its dealership members to host a USO Barbecue for the Troops fundraising event on July 20. On that same day, more than 50 dealerships representing more than 35 communities across Chicagoland will fire up the grill, offer "free" services, such as car washes, and collect donations to support the USO of Illinois. One hundred percent of the proceeds raised will support troops deployed and at home; military families; wounded, ill and injured troops as well as families of the fallen.

"Many CATA dealers already provide support to military groups and returning service men and women, so we knew the USO Barbecue for the Troops idea would resonate tremendously among our membership," said CATA Chairman John Webb. "This is a great way to employ the community of new car dealers in Chicago for the benefit of a great organization."

"The USO Barbecue for the Troops is a program committed to raising awareness of the continued need to support the troops," said Jessica Dolan, VP of Development at the USO of Illinois. "We're very thankful to have the support of the CATA and its member dealers, as they have a strong impact in Chicago-area communities."

The USO Barbecue for the Troops is a national fundraising campaign that encourages organizations and communities to host barbecues and raise funds for local USO programs and services.

The full listing of participating CATA dealerships can be found at www.DriveChicago.com.

For interview or promotional opportunities, please contact Jennifer Morand at [email protected] or 630-424-6084. For more information please visit www.BarbecuefortheTroops.com.

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 about 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. We are supported solely by the generosity of the American people. For more information about the USO of Illinois, visit: www.usoofillinois.org

SOURCE Chicago Automobile Trade Association