CHICAGO (July 15, 2013) -  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 60 dealerships representing more than 40 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.