Community Spirit Shines Bright at Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall’s 27th Annual “12 Hours of Salvation Toy Drive

The holiday season is a time for giving, and this year’s 27th annual 12 Hours of Salvation Toy Drive proved once again how deeply our community cares. Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet is thrilled to announce that this year’s event was a monumental success, bringing joy to
thousands of children and families in need.

For 12 hours, the dealership was transformed into a hub of generosity and holiday cheer as individuals, families, and local businesses united to donate toys, raise funds, and volunteer their time. Thanks to the incredible support of our community, the impact of this event will resonate far beyond the holiday season.

Record-Breaking Results

• • This year marked a historic milestone for the 12 Hours of Salvation Toy Drive:
    200,000th toy donation reached during the event’s legacy with over 21,000 of them coming from the team at Lou Bachrodt.
  • Over 7,000 toys collected to bring smiles to children’s faces.
  • Nearly $11,000 raised, ensuring every child wakes up to a gift under the tree. Throughout the past 27 years we’ve collected over $140,000 in cash donations!

Celebrating Our Partners and Supporters

This event would not have been possible without the dedication of our broadcast partners—WREX, Q 98.5, 97 ZOK, and 96.7 the Eagle—and the many local businesses who stepped up to make a difference, including over 16 local businesses and partners.

Your unwavering commitment to giving back inspires us all, and we are deeply grateful for your generosity.

Event Highlights

The toy drive was packed with unforgettable moments, including:

• Incredible Donations: From bicycles to stuffed animals, every contribution filled our collection area with holiday magic.
• Holiday Entertainment: Santa himself made an appearance, while live performances from Jodi
  Beach & Jim McDowell, Jerry and Charmel Jacobs, and the Rockford Temple Salvation Army Band kept the festive spirit alive.
• Community Unity: Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, everyone played a vital role in the event’s success.

A Message of Gratitude

“On behalf of everyone at Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall, thank you for coming together to make the holidays brighter for children in need,” said Rachel Bachrodt, Owner at Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet Buick GMC BMW VW. “This event is a testament to the power of community and the spirit of giving. Together, we’ve made an incredible impact, one toy and one smile at a time.”

As we look ahead to next year’s 12 Hours of Salvation Toy Drive, we’re filled with gratitude and
excitement for what we can achieve together. Until then, we wish you and your loved ones a joyous and memorable holiday season.

About Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet Buick GMC BMW VW

Lou Bachrodt has proudly served the Rockford community for over 70 years, dedicated to making a difference both on and off the lot. This 3rd Generation Family Run business has maintained our founder’s commitment to community engagement and drives everything we do, and we’re honored to support initiatives that bring joy and hope to those in need.

For more information about this year’s toy drive or how you can get involved next year, please contact Tracy Beyer, Marketing Director at tracy.beyer@bachrodt.com.