WSB AM 750/ 95.5 FM raises $1.3 million for Care-a-Thon

By RODNEY HO/rho@ajc.com, originally filed August 15, 2011

AM 750 and 95.5/FM News/Talk WSB drew $1.3 million for its annual Care-a-Thon last week.

The funds raised will support the Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.

Over 10 years, the radio station has raised $9.7 million for the organizations.  Listeners have pledged more than $1 million every year since 2005. The biggest year was 2010 when the station raised $1.43 million.

Several stations in town do similar promotions for charities. WSB regularly pulls in the most cash for its respective charitable groups.

According to a news release, here were some highlights over 37 hours:

• Throughout the Care-a-thon, donors met all of the matching hours, which included:  Aflac over $200,000, Dan Amos $50,000, Curing Kids Cancer $30,000, SCANA Energy $10,000 – among others.
• During the Care-a-Thon, two surprise match hours came in from various donors.
• Popular artist Steven Penley donated an original work of the American flag for auction.
• Tim Hudson and Chipper Jones offered a special meet-and-greet and lunch for 50 donors.
• A tour of the new UGA football practice facility was offered as well as a lunch with former UGA players and current coaches.