The stations of Big Radio including WCLO 1230AM, 105.9 The Hog, WJVL 99.9 FM, Iron Country and The Beat concluded their annual holiday charity fund raising events last week with very positive results. The events included an online auction of items generously donated by local businesses and a 12 hour “ringing and bringing” donation drive. Both events combined to raise more than $7,700 in cash plus a truck load of toys, food and other items. All proceeds from the events will be split between E.C.H.O. and the Rock County Salvation Army.
The first ever “Big Radio Twelve Hour Radiothon” auction event, sponsored by Blain’s Farm and Fleet and K&W Greenery, raised over $4,500 for the charities. Some of the donated items included automotive tires and service, an air hockey table, a diamond pendent, a gun safe, gift certificates, and more.
On December 4th, companies that participated with donations were invited on each of the five Big Radio stations. They were each given times within a designated hour on air to discuss their donated item and business, with their item’s auction ending at the end of their hour.
“This was the first time we have tried an online charity auction and we were very pleased with the results,” stated Big Radio’s Tim Bremel. “It was a lot of fun for both the participants and the sponsors. We plan to expand the auction next year to include more items at more varied price points to allow greater participation for sponsors and bidders.”
On December 11th, Big Radio partnered with Blain’s Farm and Fleet’s “Kids Helping Kids” toy drive for a 12 hour donation drive. The event held at Janesville’s Farm and Fleet, featured a contactless drive-through where people could drop off new toys, non-perishable food, and cash donations. Big Radio and Blain’s Farm and Fleet staff along with members of the Salvation Army and E.C.H.O. endured the inclement weather while manning the drive-through. The stations also provided live broadcasts to promote the event throughout the day.
“Despite the poor weather, the turnout for the event was terrific,” Bremel said. “The community really stepped it up and we were able to exceed expectations again this year.”
The annual event raised over $3,200 in cash donations this year plus a truck load of toys, food, and other necessities to help brighten the holidays of some area residents in need.
“We are very thankful to all of our sponsor partners for making it possible for Big Radio to help give back to our community,” stated station Owner and General Manager Ben Thompson. “We are especially grateful to all the folks who came out and contributed donations and participated in the auction. It’s a real testament to the generosity of our listeners when you see people coming out in bad weather and during difficult times to give. They really came through again this year and we can’t thank them enough.”
For more information about E.C.H.O. visit: https://echojanesville.org/
For more information about the Rock County Salvation Army visit: https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/rockcounty/
