NORTHBROOK, Ill. — The Libertyville Rotary Sunrise chapter, in cooperation with Zengeler Cleaners’ two Libertyville, Ill., stores, collected more than 3,200 winter coats, gloves, scarves and other winter apparel for local veterans as part of the “Coats for Vets” program.
“The recent downturn in the economy has had a devastating impact on our veterans,” says Tom Zengeler, president of Zengeler Cleaners. “For a variety of reasons, veterans face an unfair share of the burden when it comes to unemployment — especially when difficult times last for an extended period of time. Libertyville Rotary Sunrise believes they deserve better. The very least we could do was reach out to our veterans and show our appreciation and support for the sacrifices they’ve made on behalf of all Americans.”
Zengeler Cleaners’ two Libertyville stores served as drop-off locations for the donations. After the items were collected, Zengeler Cleaners inspected, repaired and cleaned every donated item before delivering the clothing.
“We were very pleasantly surprised at the support we received,” Zengeler says. “After all, times are tough for a good many folks, not just vets. These generous clothing donations demonstrate that ordinary people truly care about our veterans.”
Zengeler is an active Rotarian and Charter Member of Libertyville Rotary Sunrise, which was founded in 1987. Rotary International is a worldwide organization of business and professional leaders that provides humanitarian service, encourages high ethical standards in all vocations, and works to build peace and goodwill in the world.
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