Radiothons

Above: Radiothon phone room at 3AW in Melbourne, Australia

Variety the Children’s Charity “Care For Kids” Radiothons took to the airwaves in 1994, and have raised more than US$6 million for local causes. The first Radiothon was held in Los Angeles and the program has since spread to Pittsburgh, Des Moines, New York, Delaware, Knoxville, San Jose, Kansas City and Palm Springs in the United States.

Radiothons are also held in Kelowna, Kamloops, Prince George, Vernon, Salmon Arm and Manitoba in Canada.

In Australia, Radiothons are held in New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia. 

Right: 3AW radio personality Ernie Sigley talks to Miss Victoria during the Tent 77 Radiothon. Photo courtesy of Variety Victoria

In 2006, Variety the Children's Charity Radiothons raised over US$1,565,000!

Legendary New York radio personality Bruce Morrow (Cousin Brucie) says about the NY Variety Radiothon:

"I have found there is no better way to reach individuals than using the mass medium of radio. Radio is the most personal and immediate electronic delivery system we have ever known. Radio goes shopping with you, is in the car with you, takes a shower with you and is even in bed with you. When used properly, keeping in mind the specific radio station format – a Radiothon can become an electronic harvest. Tent 35 New York celebrated its 13th Radiothon this year. And happily, it has become a wonderful and profitable experience for our children!! So tune in – more coming!"

Time Square Photo Courtesy of Tent 35 New York. 

Another successful program, called “Bikes For Kids,” was merged with the “Care For Kids” Radiothon in 1995. Callers who pledge a certain amount are now invited to present a new bike and helmet to an under-privileged child who excels in schoolwork or behavior. The “Bikes For Kids" pledge has become very popular, resulting in thousands of bikes being given to deserving boys and girls.

Kids helping kids: During the EZ Rock “Have a Heart” Variety Children’s Radiothon in Salmon Arm,
youngsters from a local daycare centre collected coins for Variety. Photo Credit: Duncan Myers