Summer is right around the corner, and that means so is BBQ for the Troops!

This year, we have new ways for you to participate and we look forward to another summer of community fundraising festivities across the Chicagoland area.

More than a decade ago, the CATA and area new-car dealers partnered with the USO to create the Barbecue for the Troops campaign to raise money for our local troops and their families. What started as a few hot dogs and tin can has now grown into an annual festival which brings in thousands of dollars. In fact, the program’s lifetime total is over $1.1 million raised for USO!

As a participating dealer, the CATA will provide you with a starter kit of marketing materials. The CATA also runs an area-wide marketing and advertising campaign which includes a listing of all participating dealers and is an excellent opportunity for media exposure.

The 2023 event had 85 participating new-car dealers who hosted events that ranged from online fundraisers, to full-blown community summer festivals that included 21 gun salute, live music, bouncy houses, and, of course, a delicious barbecue meal. We look forward to growing the participation this year.

To participate, select one or more of the following options to raise money for the USO:

1. Host a BBQ Event: As in previous years, you can host a BBQ event at your dealership on Saturday, July 13 which will be advertised across the market. These events can range in size from lunch with customers to full-blown community festivals.
2. NEW! Test Drives for Donations: Drive traffic to your dealership by inviting your community to come and take a test drive at your dealership. For every test drive in the month of July, your dealership will make a donation to the USO. The CATA suggests a minimum of $10 per test drive.
3. Make a Donation: If you’re unable to participate in one of the activations in July, you can still make an impact! You can make a one-time donation to the USO and be listed as a BBQ for the Troops donor on DriveChicago.com.

As we know, dealers have deep roots in their communities and by participating in the Barbecue for the Troops program, dealers can further connect with their customers and contribute to a great cause.

Sign Up Now!

If you have any questions, please contact Hayley Feichter or Jim OBrill.