Spreading Joy: Community Initiatives and Heartwarming Radiothons Kick Off the Holiday Season.

As Thanksgiving approaches, radio stations nationwide actively engage in community-driven efforts to ensure that those in need can savor the cherished meal of this time-honored American holiday. The concluding weeks of the calendar year also witness impactful radiothons and fundraisers, many dedicated to supporting patients and families in children's hospitals and related organizations.

In Atlanta, Cox Media Group's urban AC station, "Kiss 104.1" WALR, marked its fifth annual "Turkey Giveaway" on Saturday, Nov. 18. Teaming up with Publix grocery chain, "Kiss 104.1" generously provided 104 turkeys to families in underserved communities. Mabra Law, another supporter, matched this number, effectively doubling the number of turkeys distributed.

Terri Avery, Director of Branding and Programming, emphasized, "Being live and local for WALR means serving our community. We are thankful for another successful year, helping families in need."

The widely syndicated "Steve Harvey Morning Show" by Premiere Networks has played a significant role in giving back, supplying affiliates with over 6,000 turkeys for distribution as part of the "14th Annual Turkey Give." Since its inception in 2009, this initiative has contributed over 100,000 turkeys to those facing hardships.

Debuting in 2000 and distributed by Premiere since 2005, the program reaches over 100 stations nationwide. Harvey, joined by co-hosts Shirley Strawberry, Nephew Tommy, Carla Ferrell, and Junior, resonates in major markets such as New York City (WBLS), Los Angeles (KJLH), and Chicago (WVAZ).

The year-end months also witness compelling radiothons and fundraisers. Cumulus Media's rock station, "105.7 The X" WQXA York, PA, recently raised over $350,000 for the Harrisburg-York-Lancaster area's Children's Miracle Network during the 17th annual "People's Pay 4 Play Radiothon."

This 28-hour radiothon, running from Thursday, Nov. 16, at 6 am to Friday, Nov. 17, at 10 am, saw listeners requesting songs in exchange for pledges ranging from $25 to $500. Remarkably, some fans went above and beyond, offering over $1,000 to hear their chosen songs on the air.

A special moment during the Radiothon featured Brent Smith of Shinedown, supporting Children's Miracle Network miracle child Gannon Kupko, Jr. Gannon, undergoing radiation treatments while listening to Shinedown's "Get Up," received a surprise Zoom visit from Smith. During the call, Smith announced that Shinedown would contribute not only $10,000 to add to the $1,000 already raised but also an additional $10,000 personally for Gannon and his family, ensuring their best Christmas ever.