Coats for Vets Runs Through October
Libertyville Sunrise Rotary, Zengeler Cleaners Team Up For 2021
“Coats for Vets” Collection Drive
Donations accepted through October 31st at Zengeler Cleaners’ Libertyville locations
Fall has arrived, and that means it’s time for Libertyville Sunrise Rotary to kick off their 2021 “Coats for Vets” collection drive. The Coats for Vets campaign collects winter coats, jackets, and other seasonal apparel for veterans throughout the northern Illinois area. Donations can be given to any member of Libertyville Sunrise Rotary or dropped off at either of Zengeler Cleaners two Libertyville stores: 539 E. Park Avenue and 1401 Peterson Road, the official collection locations for the annual campaign.
“This year has been particularly tough for veterans, especially those looking to find meaningful work as they transition back to civilian life,” said Tom Zengeler, President of Zengeler Cleaners. “As a result, many who protected our way of life now live below the poverty line – and that’s just not acceptable. We believe it’s our job to support them; after all, all Americans owe a huge debt to the service of our vets."
“In many ways, the challenges for returning veterans are even greater this year,” continued Zengeler. “The combination of the pandemic, the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on American soil, and the withdrawal from Afghanistan have compounded the impact. Coats for Vets provides a simple yet meaningful opportunity for each of us to address some of their needs and to show our appreciation for their service.
The collection drive also includes gloves, hats, blankets, and other seasonal apparel in addition to coats and jackets. Last year’s Coats for Vets drive was enormously successful, even at the height of the pandemic. Libertyville Sunrise Rotary collected 1,742 coats valued at approximately $175,000. “Please look through your closet and donate your extra items that our vets need so badly – all donations are welcomed,” said Zengeler. “With the generosity of the local community, we’re confident this year’s drive will be another huge success.”
Donations will be accepted through Wednesday, October 31st. Once the donations are gathered, the Zengeler team will inspect, repair as needed and clean every single item. Next, Zengeler Cleaners will deliver the renewed items to the VA Hospital in time for Veterans Day on Sunday, November 11.
Rotary International currently has 35,000+ Rotary clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas. The organization has more than 1.2 million business and professional leaders as members, all volunteering their time and talents to serve their communities. The Libertyville Sunrise Rotary chapter was founded in 1987. Tom Zengeler is an active Rotarian and Charter Member of Libertyville Sunrise Rotary. He is also the President of Zengeler Cleaners and the 5th generation of Zengeler family leadership for the Midwest’s oldest and largest cleaner.
For more information about the 2021 Coats for Vets drive, please contact Tom Zengeler, President, at (847) 272-6550, ext. 14. In addition to its two Libertyville stores, Zengeler Cleaners has locations in Deerfield, Hubbard Woods, Northfield, Winnetka, Northbrook and Long Grove. Zengeler Cleaners … America's First Family of Dry Cleaning™.