Arc Radiothon Sets Sights on $65,000 Goal

April 9, 2008 at 7:49 pm

More than 1,000 people will respond Friday, April 18 when Hackettstown Ford hosts the 18th annual WRNJ Radiothon for The Arc from its showroom from 8 am to 5 pm.

During that time, business and community leaders from throughout the greater Warren County area will call their personal and professional contacts for pledges to The Arc's Camp Warren and other programs benefiting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In 2007, 124 campers with disabilities enjoyed the summer at Camp Warren, thanks to the organization's most successful fundraising event since its inception in 1954. In addition, 200-plus young and older adults enjoyed a well-rounded recreation program that combines leisure-time activity with social skills building.

Arc CEO Robert A. Pruznick credits Radiothon with more than necessary fundraising, however.

"Our goal in 1991 was to provide a forum in which residents and business leaders from the community could learn about The Arc and the services it provides," he recalled. "Our mission is always to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with disabilities. However, that first year taught us that the people who responded to our effort were more than generous when it came to backing their interest with financial support.

"Now that we're in our 18th Radiothon year, it's even more apparent that the good people of our community not only recognize the need for support, but are actively engaged in our success," he added.

Radiothon 2008 co-chairmen Norman Worth, vice president and general manager of WRNJ Oldies 1510, and Jim Travis, president of SASCO Insurance Services, have set their sights on a $65,000 goal. Their efforts will get an early start when Russ Long, beloved morning man at WRNJ, begins his on-air appeal two days earlier during his 6-10 am program Wed., April 16 and continuing Thurs., April 17. The final leg of his appeal early in the morning of April 18 sets the stage for ABC Network Radio News correspondent Deirdre Bryant, who will conduct an all-day "live" program of interviews and updates from the Hackettstown Ford showroom.

"One of the most rewarding experiences I have had the good fortune of enjoying is the annual Radiothon for The Arc of Warren County," Mr. Long said. "I guess it's no secret to anyone that Camp Warren is very special to me and, over the years, listeners to the morning program on WRNJ have really been generous in our continuing effort to sponsor at least 10 camperships each year.

"When you see the dramatic impact we have on the lives of those with developmental disabilities and their families, it's easy to see why so many have joined in our Radiothon effort," he added. "It's also the reason why it is so important that each of us do our part, no matter how large or small, to help reach our goal."

Radiothon VIPs (Very Involved Persons) arrive with client lists, Rolodexes, iPhones and any other means of reaching out to their contacts for pledges. This year, donors will also have the option of making their pledge via credit card and electronic payment through The Arc's website at arcwarren.org

"The beauty of Radiothon is in its simplicity," said Arc Development Director Kevin Guyette. "We ask each VIP to give just one hour, and we make the process easy for them by mailing their pledge forms and following up with any additional service required.

"We also make it fun," she added. "Radiothon is about people: people who have disabilities and the people who care about them. Our local business community does a commendable job of pitching in, not only by making calls for pledges, but by donating goods and services. It all helps."

Westside Hair, Stiger Street, will conduct a Cut-a-Thon Sun., April 20 from 10 am to 5 pm with special prices for the whole family. Seven stylists will be on hand and refreshments will be offered. Call 908.850.7610 for an appointment. - more -

Dunkin' Donuts locations in Hackettstown, Mansfield, and Budd Lake will donate 10% of all proceeds on April 18 from 6 am to 3 pm. Owners Steve and Dave Murray will present their donation before Radiothon goes off the air at 5 pm.

Members of the Hackettstown High School Key Club will present a check in the amount of $1,384.00 representing their portion of proceeds from a March 3 Mini Winter Carnival at the school, and representatives from Kohl's Department Store in Mansfield will present a $500 check through their employee volunteer program.

Volunteers are treated to breakfast from Harper's Bagel & Bake Shop, and the lunchtime crowd enjoys pizza, gourmet pasta, and salad from Mama's Restaurant & Café Baci.

"It's important that we take care of the people who take care of us," said Mr. Pruznick. "Our list of Radiothon VIPs has grown steadily since 1991, and they've helped us reach and surpass every goal we've ever set for this event.

"There could not be a more dedicated group of individuals working toward a successful outcome for our friends and neighbors living with disabilities than the people we'll see at Hackettstown Ford on April 18," he added. "From our many VIPs to our friends at WRNJ Oldies 1510 and SASCO Insurance Services, the people who make Radiothon work are heroes in every sense of the word."

To learn more about The Arc of Warren County and to sign on as a Radiothon volunteer, please call The Arc at 908.689.7525 or visit arcwarren.org.