2022 WIBC Radiothon
For 28 years, the WIBC Radiothon has been a holiday tradition in Indianapolis. The Salvation Army's largest annual fundraising event of the year is back this Friday and Saturday with a record goal and big plans for the 36-hour live broadcast from Sullivan Hardware and Gardens at 6955 N. Keystone Avenue.
In response to increased need in the community, a new goal has been set to raise $400,000 to fund vital programs in Central Indiana that help families, individuals, and children in need.
The live broadcast will be hosted by popular 93.1 WIBC and B105.7 on-air personalities, including Pat Sullivan, Denny Smith, Terri Stacy, Eric Allen, Matt Bair, Jason Hammer, Nigel Laskowski, Rob Kendall, and Casey Daniels. WIBC Radiothon Executive Producer Mel McMahon is back and will join hosts on air throughout the entire broadcast.
"Having grown up with a dad who really valued forming traditions, I have a nostalgic thrill in celebrating rich traditions like the WIBC Radiothon," said Major Rachel Stouder, Area Commander for The Salvation Army of Central Indiana. "If we look back over 28 years of partnership with WIBC, we cannot contain our gratitude, which I'm sure you'll hear spill out over the airwaves this weekend! If you've not been to Sullivan's during the Radiothon (or any of their other festivals), I highly recommend it! Pat and his crew do an outstanding job of keeping the sense of festivities high and exciting - more than enough Christmas cheer to blow away any bit of Scrooge which might be creeping into your Christmastime."
Bee Window is returning as the 2022 WIBC Radiothon title sponsor. Additional support comes from hourly sponsors and the Smith Family, which is sponsoring the official WIBC Radiothon toteboard. Follow along live at toteboard2022.wibcradiothon.com. For a complete list of sponsors, visit wibc.com/radiothon.
The WIBC Radiothon kicks off at 6:00 a.m. on Friday, December 9 and wraps up at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 10. Throughout the live broadcast, listeners will get to hear from the people closest to The Salvation Army's services in Central Indiana, including staff, pastors, clients, volunteers, and donors to the organization. Live music will also play a big part in the broadcast on Saturday as local performers help to put listeners and shoppers at Sullivan Hardware and Gardens in a Christmas spirit.
"Central Indiana continues to amaze me in its generosity toward its neighbors," shared Major Stouder. "The reality is that these donations are critical for us to do the work we do, especially in years like this one when inflation means funds don't stretch as far as we are used to. We praise God for inspiring donors to help us rescue individuals and families from hopelessness. I am confident Central Indiana will come through for us and we will again be celebrating a banner year!"
Here's how the public can help:
Donate online at WIBCRadiothon.com. Make a one-time donation of any amount or choose to become a sustaining donor by making a "25 by 12" - $25 each month for the next 12 months (total donation amount is $300)
Text HOOSIER to 24-365 to get a link to the online donation form
Call the Smith Family Phone Bank at 1-833-855-9393 during the live broadcast
Make your donation in person by stopping by Sullivan Hardware and Gardens during normal operating hours
Share on social media using the hashtag #WIBCRadiothon
The WIBC Radiothon helps to fund Salvation Army programs year-round in Central Indiana. This includes activities for all ages at the Fountain Square Corps Community Center and our sister corps near Eagle Creek on North High School Road, addiction treatment programs at its Harbor Light Center on North Tibbs Avenue, and 24/7 secure housing at a downtown shelter for women and children fleeing domestic violence, human trafficking, and homelessness. Additional support services are offered in donut counties, including emergency financial assistance and case management.
Last year The Salvation Army of Central Indiana provided over $405,000 in financial assistance to struggling households. An additional 292,000 meals and 24,000 safe nights of shelter were provided in the Indy metro area.
Every donation given to The Salvation Army through the 28th Anniversary WIBC Radiothon provides help and hope to those in need, and all gifts stay right here in Central Indiana. s 28th Anniversary WIBC Radiothon kicks off December 9 with a $400,000 goal.