Chicagoland’s new-car dealers’ annual salute to the military raised more than $80,000 for programs to support service members and their families.

The Chicago Automobile Trade Association, the metro area’s new-car dealer association, partnered with the USO to host the 11th annual BBQ for the Troops fundraisers, a series of events at member dealerships in July.

This week, CATA board members presented a check for $81,267.48 raised from events at 60 local dealerships that included patriotic ceremonies, classic car shows, live music, games for kids of all ages and, of course, barbecues. Participating dealers added donations for every test drive at their stores during the month.

“Supporting our local communities and those in need is right in the wheelhouse of our local car dealers, and what better way to make an impact than rallying together for this great cause,” CATA chairman Jason Roberts said. “We are thrilled to once again present this check to the USO, which does such crucial work supporting our service members and their families.”

This year’s donation brought the total raised in the event’s history to more than $1.2 million, helping the USO support more than 300,000 service members and their families annually.

“We are so grateful for the support we receive from our partners at the Chicago Automobile Trade Association and the local new-car dealerships,” USO executive director for Illinois Christopher Schmidt said, citing the “crucial funds” donated over the past 11 years.

Roberts expressed appreciation for CATA’s media partners in the initiative.

“Many thanks are due to all our partners in TV, radio and outdoor advertising media who helped us promote this worthwhile program,” he said. “A special thanks to ABC 7 Chicago for producing the TV spot that aired throughout the market.”