WHEATON, IL — November 2, 2026 — For more than 20 years, Milton Township’s S.A.L.T. (Seniors And Law Enforcement Together) Council has helped older adults prepare for safer winter driving through its annual free senior auto inspection event. With an estimated 2,000 seniors served to date, the event demonstrates the Township’s continued commitment to turning community partnerships into practical support for residents.

Held October 24 at Wheaton Fire Station, this year’s event brought together 85 volunteers, including certified automotive mechanics, Technical College of DuPage mechanics in training, local law enforcement, youth service organizations and community members. Together, they provided complimentary vehicle safety inspections, topped off fluids, inflated tires and spares, while also identified potential concerns before winter weather arrives.

Turning Community Partnerships Into Real-World Solutions

This year’s event provided seniors with vital vehicle inspections and repair guidance. Volunteers identified cars needing repairs, offering immediate assistance and connecting eligible seniors with affordable parts-only repair options, reducing financial barriers to safe driving.

Lead Mechanic Ryan Decker from TCD stated, “I love giving back to the community and seeing the relief on [senior’s] faces when we deliver the concerns we found and also let them know that our services can continue. This year we are offering they can bring their vehicle to TCD for our students to make the necessary repairs. They are only responsible for the cost of parts.”

The event highlighted the positive effects of community collaboration by providing students with hands-on automotive experience. Support from the community has been vital, including donations of supplies from AAA Car Care of Wheaton and refreshments from BrightStar Care. Ongoing backing from Wheaton Fire Station One and Chief Brill has helped maximize impact while keeping costs low for taxpayers.

More Than an Inspection: A Lasting Commitment to Senior Safety

The event occurs annually because it offers more than an inspection; it provides recurring, valuable support to keep Milton Township seniors safe. Many seniors enjoy sitting and chatting with designated volunteers over a cup of coffee and a treat. At the same time, they wait for their inspection to be completed.

Milton Township Supervisor Buffy Higgins-Beard also emphasized the collective effort: “The power of community in caring for one another is so evident at this year’s annual S.A.L.T. senior auto inspection. We thank the many volunteers and especially TCD, Young Men’s Service League Panther division, Girl Scout Troop 56404, and Wheaton Fire Department.”

About Milton Township’s S.A.L.T. Council

The Milton Township S.A.L.T. (Seniors And Law Enforcement Together) Council brings together seniors, law enforcement and community partners to support the safety, security and quality of life of older adults. Operating for more than 28 years; the Council is a partnership involving Milton Township, the DuPage County Sheriff's Office and local police departments. Through educational programs, community outreach and collaborative events, S.A.L.T. works to strengthen relationships and connect seniors with valuable resources.

Monthly meetings are held on the second Monday of each month from 10–11:30 a.m. at the Glen Ellyn Police Department. Meetings are open to the public, and the Council welcomes opportunities to provide speakers and participate in community events throughout Milton Township. For more information about Milton Township S.A.L.T. Council programs and services, please visit miltontownship.net/services/salt.php or call (630) 668-1616.