This holiday season, local car dealers have teamed up with charitable organizations to give back to their communities and help fulfill holiday wishes of those less fortunate. Chicagoland’s new-car dealers understand the vital impact their businesses have on the communities they serve, which is why they’re going the extra mile this holiday season for causes that hold a special meaning to them.

Approximately 300 Jeeps joined Ray Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram and Jeeps on the Run (JOTR) for their 13th annual Toys for Tots caravan, raising over $200,000 in toys and donations for local children. The day kicked off at the dealership with coffee, donuts and music, then continued with a police-assisted ride from Lake County reserve officers to the Marriott Lincolnshire Resort, where Jeep owners and Marines unloaded the gifts. The afterparty featured live music, a magician, Santa photos, a full Santa’s Workshop, food, drinks and raffle prizes. A brand-new 2025 Jeep Gladiator was also given away to a lucky winner who traveled from Delaware to pick up her prize. Thanks to Ray Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram’s support, over $300,000 has been donated to JOTR over the past six years.

For the sixth year, Fox Valley Auto Group participated in Operation Christmas Child. This annual initiative is a project of Samaritan's Purse and collects shoeboxes filled with gifts such as toys, school supplies and personal care items. These shoeboxes are then delivered to children in need worldwide, with the goal of demonstrating love in a tangible way. The dealership has been involved with the initiative since 2020. This year marked their biggest year yet, with the team raising $7,000 and packing over 150 boxes. The funds raised allowed them to pack an additional 504 boxes, significantly increasing their impact beyond years past.

Apple Chevrolet of Tinley Park once again played a leading role in supporting the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program, hosting its annual Toys for Tots Toy Drive and community celebration. The dealership collected 150 bikes and thousands of new, unwrapped toys to benefit children in need throughout the region. The event brought together community members, local media and special guests for a festive final drop-off party, reinforcing Apple Chevrolet’s continued commitment to service, generosity and giving back during the holiday season.

Because dealerships are closely woven into the fabric of their local communities, many individuals and organizations turn to them in a time of need. The Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), the area's new-car dealer association, has been a longtime supporter of local non-profit organizations. The association has donated more than $130,000 to local charitable organizations through its Chicagoland Dealers Care program, which helps expand CATA members’ donations and shine a spotlight on new-car dealers’ positive impact within their communities.