Mother Nature may have tried to stop it, but the 13th annual Jeeps on the Run made another successful trek through Lake County, bringing tens of thousands of dollars in toys to those in need.
“Jeeps on the Run,” founded by Mike Missak in November 2012, hosted its annual event benefiting Toys for Tots on Sunday.
The event, which entered its 13th year in 2025, has seen an exponential growth in the number of Jeeps that come together for the cause.
This year, however, was down a bit after 7 inches of snow hit Lake County the night before the event, Missak said.
“While we were a little light on Jeep’s this year, we weren’t light on the giving,” Missak said in a Facebook post. “The ones who showed up were the true givers! We woke up to poor road conditions and cold weather, but the hardcore Jeep owners didn’t care – they showed up ready to make a difference. Thanks to Lake County Aux, Fox Lake & Lincolnshire PD for their help!”
Jeepers checked out each other’s cars and socialized at the meeting point before the convoy began.
Then a police escort led the hundreds of Jeeps to the Marriott Lincolnshire Resort in Lincolnshire.
The Jeeps were directed to a drive-thru where the Marines helped unload the toys that participants donated into awaiting trucks.
Two semi-trucks were filled with toys, Missak said, adding that Lake and McHenry counties will benefit through the giving spirit.
All proceeds from the event will be donated to Toys for Tots, including the fees collected to participate in the event, Missak said.
An after-party was held at the hotel with food and entertainment, followed by a raffle where a participant won a brand new 2025 Jeep Gladiator, donated by Ray Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram.
“There were raffles, food, duck and photo scavenger hunts, families laughing and having fun, new friendships formed, and visits with the amazing sponsors who make this event possible,” Missak added. “Kids stayed busy with crafts and activities thanks to Jovie’s team, and Old National Bank was on hand giving out some great goodies.”
Missak said Friday, “Sunday’s numbers alone were 2 semi trucks full of toys at an estimated $130,00 in toys and $40k+”
“It was the perfect way to spend a snowy Sunday afternoon,” Missak said.