In a gesture of community support, Ace Hardware Corporation is giving back to those who serve on the frontlines. As part of Ace Cares Week and in honor of Patriot’s Day, 200 leaders from Ace’s Oak Brook headquarters came together to assemble and donate 40 Blackstone grills to fire departments across Chicago’s Western Suburbs.

The grills were delivered to suburban fire departments including Bellwood, Brookfield, Elmhurst, Glen Ellyn, Hinsdale, Oak Brook, Villa Park, Westmont, York Center and many others. It’s a small but meaningful way to say “thank you” to the brave men and women who risk their lives daily for the safety of the communities.

“We’re thrilled to give back to our local fire departments,” said Chris Doucet, Director of Communications, Engagement & Ace Foundation. “Their work is essential, and we hope these grills will provide them a way to relax and enjoy a well-deserved meal together after a long day.”

The gesture was deeply appreciated by the local fire departments.

• “We at the GE FD are ever so grateful for our new grill and the Helpful Hardware folks at Ace HQ who know what it means to serve others!” – Lieutenant Kirk Huot of the Glen Ellyn Fire Department
• “It’s not every day that we receive such a generous and thoughtful gift. This Blackstone grill will certainly bring our team together, whether it’s for a hot meal between calls or a moment of downtime after a long shift. We’re grateful to Ace Hardware for supporting us in this special way.” – Fire Chief Steven Stapleton of the Villa Park Fire Department
• “We’re thankful to Ace for giving us this great gift. We’re so excited to try out the Blackstone grill at the station.” – Lieutenant Blaise Clairardin, engineer with the York Center Fire Protection District. He added that the gift would get regular, weekly use from the firefighters. Some of Clairardin’s favorite dishes that he’s looking forward to grilling on the Blackstone include skirt steak with chimichurri and roasted potatoes.

Ace Hardware’s commitment to first responders and non-profits is long-standing, and this effort exemplifies its belief in hands-on, impactful contributions that make a difference. Ace hopes that through this small gesture, fire departments will feel the gratitude and support of the communities they serve so selflessly.

Ace Cares Week is an annual initiative that encourages Ace Corporate employees to volunteer their time for local non-profits. This year, the company went above and beyond in celebration of its 100th anniversary, supporting over 100 volunteer projects across the Chicagoland area. It’s all part of Ace’s mission to be a “helpful place” not just in hardware, but where it matters most.

About Ace Hardware

Ace Hardware is the largest retailer-owned hardware cooperative in the world with over 5,800 locally owned and operated hardware stores in approximately 60 countries. Headquartered in Oak Brook, Ill., Ace and its subsidiaries operate an expansive network of distribution centers in the U.S. and have distribution capabilities in Ningbo, China; Cuautitlán Izcalli, Mexico. Ace also owns Ace Hardware Home Services, a collection of local service companies with experienced professionals dedicated to helping homeowners complete home maintenance tasks. Since 1924, Ace has become a part of local communities around the world and known as the place with the Helpful Hardware Folks. For more information, visit acehardware.com or newsroom.acehardware.com.