Lake County Gazette

The GLMV Chamber of Commerce has launched its annual Winter Coat Drive for Vets, with collection bins available throughout the region until November 20. The initiative is a collaboration between the chamber and local community organizations, aiming to gather new and gently used winter coats and cold-weather gear for veterans and their families.

"Our coat collection for veterans is an ideal way to show our community support and thank our vets for their amazing service," said GLMV President Scott Adams.

Each year, the GLMV Chamber of Commerce partners and local community organizations work together to collect new and gently used winter coats and cold-weather gear for our veterans and their families. All sizes are greatly received – vulnerable veterans and their families are all at risk when the weather turns harsh.

In Vernon Hills, donation bins can be found at Village Hall, the Vernon Hills Police Station, Park District Sullivan Center, Crescent Home Care, Dave & Busters, Everleigh, Integral Medical, Northwestern Mutual, Nothing Bundt Cakes, and Vernon Hills Bank & Trust. Other locations across Green Oaks, Libertyville, Mundelein, and Vernon Hills are also participating. The full list of drop-off sites with contact information is available on the GLMV Coat Drive webpage; donors are encouraged to check hours before visiting each location.

Collected items will be distributed by Midwest Veteran's Closet. The organization provides food, supplies, and resources to veterans in need from its location at 1720 Green Bay Road in North Chicago. "Thank you for your generosity and support," organizers said.

The GLMV Chamber of Commerce serves the communities of Green Oaks, Libertyville, Mundelein, and Vernon Hills in northern Illinois. It supports hundreds of local businesses through networking events, community initiatives, and advocacy efforts that promote regional economic growth. The chamber hosts regular luncheons, educational programs, and annual events such as the Business Expo and the Multi-Chamber Mixer. In addition to business development, the GLMV Chamber is active in community service, partnering with civic groups and nonprofits on programs like the Winter Coat Drive for Vets and local student scholarships, reinforcing its mission to connect commerce with community.