Charities and civic organizations know that Chicagoland new-car dealers are an integral part of their communities and are often deeply involved in charitable causes. However, dealers rarely receive the recognition they deserve for their efforts. The Chicago Automobile Trade Association created Chicagoland Dealers Care in 2008 to raise awareness of dealers' local charitable efforts and, in many cases, assist with the programs.

When it comes to donations, the Chicagoland Dealers Care program, the CATA will match your local, charitable contribution up to $1,500 to maximize the impact dealers make in your community. Grant requests can be made every three years for a variety of causes: academic programs, cultural arts, performing arts, medical research, and even humanitarian needs, to name just a few.

Since its inception in 2008, the grassroots Chicagoland Dealers Care program has donated more than $128,000 to local charitable organizations. Additionally, since 1992, the association has raised more than $60 million for Chicago-area charities during the annual First Look for Charity black-tie event, traditionally held the evening before the Chicago Auto Show opens to the public. Learn more about the Chicagoland Dealers Care program and how you can get involved. To submit a match request, download this form and email it to Hayley Feichter (hfeichter@drivechicago.com).