The Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), producers of the Chicago Auto Show, has announced two new charitable organizations joining the list of beneficiaries for the 2026 First Look for Charity event: The Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago and the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana. Additionally, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago is returning to the event, bringing the total number of benefiting organizations to 18. The First Look for Charity black-tie gala is held the evening before the Chicago Auto Show opens to the public, transforming the show floor at McCormick Place into a night of elegance and generosity. Each year, the event raises more than $2 million for Chicago-area nonprofits. The charities, which are selected by the CATA board of directors, typically participate in the program for a nine-year term. The Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago, founded in 1946, is dedicated to helping over 140,000 people living with epilepsy in the Chicagoland area reach their fullest potential through direct services, educational programs, community-based events and advocacy that supports public awareness and reduces the stigmas that so often accompany the disorder. Their wide-reaching work includes case management, clinical counseling, support groups and public education campaigns. Epilepsy is a medical condition that produces seizures affecting a wide range of mental and physical functions. Over 3.4 million Americans live with epilepsy. Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana (GSGCNWI), is one of the largest councils in the nation, serving 32,500 girls and 16,500 adults across urban, suburban and rural communities. For more than 113 years, the organization has provided safe, supportive spaces where girls build confidence, friendships and leadership skills while breaking barriers to participation. The mission of GSGCNWI is to build girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place. The CATA is pleased to welcome back Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago as a returning First Look for Charity beneficiary. A consistent force for good throughout the region, Catholic Charities serves anyone in need across Cook and Lake Counties. Previously a benefiting charity from 2014 to 2023, their nine-year term concluded, and they have now been reinstated for another term. “Adding these incredible organizations to our First Look for Charity event strengthens our commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of people across Chicagoland,” said CATA Board Member and First Look for Charity Chair Jerry Haggerty. “This gala is more than just a night of luxury; it’s about investing in our communities through organizations that truly move the needle.” Since its inception, First Look for Charity has raised more than $65 million for local nonprofits. The CATA and its member dealers also give back year-round through the Chicagoland Dealers Care program, which matches donations from CATA dealers to local causes in their communities. New Beneficiaries Announced for the 2026 First Look for Charity Gala CATA UP TO SPEED 12
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