MIDDLEFIELD — The sixth annual “Geauga Jeep Invasion” rolled through Geauga County with record participation and generosity this year, raising nearly $20,000 to benefit local veterans’ programs.

The event was organized by the Burton-Middlefield Rotary Club and chaired by Andrew Pleso, with major sponsorship from Junction Auto Family and support from numerous local partners.

The Geauga Jeep Invasion was founded six years ago by Jim Dvorak, BMR member and Geauga County commissioner, to create a fund supporting veterans’ causes throughout the county. Each year, nearly 100 Jeeps gather — beginning at the Mayfield Drive-In Theater and touring scenic Geauga County, including stops at the Veterans Memorial, the Maple Highlands Trail and, occasionally, through the Best Sand Company site for an off-road experience.

“This is a great time, and it’s what makes Geauga County special — everyone comes together as a community to make big things happen,” Pleso said. “We’re so grateful to all our sponsors who make this possible year after year.”

This year’s donations included $10,000 toward the construction of an elevator at American Legion Post 459 in Burton, and $10,000 to the Geauga Veterans Food Pantry.

“Thank you so much for this donation to the pantry and for the people in Geauga County,” said Lynn Algeri of the Geauga Veterans Food Pantry. “This could only happen in a county like ours that truly respects and loves its veterans.”

“From the bottom of my heart, we appreciate this support for getting our elevator installed at the Legion,” added Jim Vinecourt, organizer of the project at Post 459.

Cliff Babcock of Junction Auto Family, the event’s title sponsor, emphasized the importance of community partnership, “Giving back is a core principle for us at Junction. Supporting a worthy cause while having fun driving Jeeps around beautiful Geauga County — it was an easy yes.”

Reflecting on the event’s growth, Dvorak said, “I never thought this would grow so much, so fast. I started this during COVID to create an outdoor event for a worthy cause. Now, it’s the biggest it’s ever been, and it just keeps getting better.”