Community Service Report
Michigan Broadcasters Serve Michigan Communities
For local radio and television stations, community involvement is more than a passing concern. It is a way of doing business. Everyday in Michigan, from Detroit to Escanaba and everywhere in between, broadcasters are going to bat for community charities, educating residents about important local issues, delivering life-saving information in times of disaster, and continually renewing their commitment to their communities.
One of the main missions of the Michigan Association of Broadcasters is to help their members serve their communities better. In doing this we seek out issues of statewide importance which have been identified by individuals and lawmakers. MAB members work collectively on a volunteer basis to educate listeners and viewers on the important issues through the airing of on-air messages. No other industry has the impact on local communities like free over-the-air broadcasting. Michigan radio and television stations understand the importance of community service. They live it every day.
Districts 1-2
Black Diamond Broadcasting
WGFM-FM
Community Service Overview
Black Diamond Broadcasting
WUPS-FM
Community Service Overview
Barry Broadcasting
WION-AM (Hastings)
WBCH-AM/FM in Hastings partners with Barry County United Way to help ensure area children receive gifts at Christmas. WBCH’s annual S-O-S: Stuff Our Station community service project collected toys and gifts for toddlers through teens and ‘stuffed’ the front windows of the stations’ downtown studios for distribution by United Way volunteers to families in need. This year WBCH listeners and other community partners donated enough gifts to help nearly 600 area children at Christmas. Any leftover presents are given throughout the year by Barry County United Way and local law enforcement to children and families who suffer loss or traumatic events. WBCH has also kicked off a yearlong safety awareness campaign stressing Michigan’s Emergency Vehicle Caution Law after the community was shocked in November 2023 by the death of a local wrecker operator. WBCH is running frequent announcements to remind listeners to “Slow Down and Move Over – It’s the Law.”
Black Diamond Broadcasting
WMKC-FM
Community Service Overview
Packer RadioWION-AM (Ionia)
Hit Radio Media
WMOM-FM & WHCH-FM (Ludington)
Hit Radio Media's WMOM-FM/WHCH-FM (Ludington) has announced that it raised $18,469.71 with its "Ludington Area Festival of Lights," held from November 27 through December 29. The announcement came January 9 during a presentation at Safe Harbor Credit Union in Ludington. The presentation, attended by more than 100, recognized business sponsors, volunteers, community members, contestants as well as students from Gateway to Success Academy and Ludington High School Industrial Arts Class. A key highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of checks to four local non-profits, who together received 50% of the gate proceeds. Cash awards were also presented to winners of the festival's interactive competitions, which encouraged creativity and community engagement. Owner and General Manager Chris Nicholas told the MAB that he had a vision of creating a holiday experience that would unite the Ludington community and this year’s Festival of Lights turned that vision into a reality. From its inception to its execution, Nicholas led the charge, organizing an event that captured the hearts of over 20,000 visitors and showcased Ludington’s generosity, creativity, and collaborative spirit. The effort took a village of volunteers, businesses, and organizations to bring it to life. Nicholas said that local companies like At The Peak Roofing played a pivotal role, taking responsibility for decorating the trees and office area at the heart of the Festival, while Nicholas and his team designed and created the entire first and second half of the drive thru. This beautifully lit centerpiece seamlessly connected the first half of the event to the second, creating a striking transition that visitors loved. Along with the support of local companies, a sizable contribution from the radio stations ensured the success of the Festival. The stations purchased all the items used during the event so they remain in the Ludington community, allowing the Festival to grow and improve each year with new additions. This collaboration ensures the Festival will continue to be a cherished holiday tradition for years to come.
Community Service Overview
No other media outlet comes close to making as much of an impact on the community as WLUC-TV6.
When SNAP benefits were cut just heading into November, WLUC was there on November 1 to help the community and meet the increased demands on local food pantries with the TV6 Canathon – a 10 County wide food drive in Upper Michigan. TV6 mobilized to get donations, food and money, to pantries every week in November. By the end of November, over 115,000 physical food donations were collected, and over $145,000 was raised for local pantries through the TV6 Canathon website (TV6Canathon.com). Over 350 Upper Michigan businesses and 75 area schools participated in the TV6 Canathon.
Beyond rallying to “help feed a hungry neighbor”, WLUC also was involved with over 50 community events and efforts across the viewing area – from benefit 5k runs to events that celebrate community heritage and diversity. We even hosted three community art and craft shows throughout the year. Every event that WLUC sponsors is not only boosted by the power of our station’s unmatched reach but is enhanced by the presence and participation of our staff!
The above video includes a sample of just some of these events in 2025.
Radio Results Network
WUPT-FM (Marquette)
The Radio Results Network in Marquette hosted a Takeover Tuesday series in October, 2023 as a part of their new partnership program with Radio X (91.5 WUPX), Northern Michigan University’s student-run radio station. The Takeover Tuesday series created opportunities for students to further their experience in the broadcasting industry and further connect with their local community.
WZMQ-TV (Marquette)
WCMU Public Media (Mt. Pleasant)In 2023, WCMU donors generated more than 1,700 meals, and in 2022, more than 8,000 meals without a ‘Gift of Food’ sponsor. WCMU General Manager Rick Westover is hopeful for an even greater impact this year. “Our goal is to see 10,000 meals with the help of Mercantile Bank,” said Westover. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to help our neighbors and make a real difference during the season of giving, and listener donations make it all happen.”
Black Diamond Broadcasting
WCFX-FM
Community Service Overview
Districts 3-4
WGHN, Inc.WGHN-AM/FM (Grand Haven)
Tegna, Inc.
Nexstar Media Group, Inc.
iHeartMedia
E.W. Scripps Company
WXMI-TV (Grand Rapids)
WXMI-TV FOX 17’s A Path Forward brings together law enforcement, the business community, and many non-profits as part of a Community Advisory Board, to build connections and lift up teens for a safer West Michigan by showcasing resources, changing the way the news department shares these stories, and establishing partnerships that offer real opportunity for the young people in our community. One way WXMI-TV is doing that is with the Boys and Girls Club of Grand Rapids, not only in fundraising at the Be Great Tailgate, but in sharing stories about young people who are growing and thriving because of its programming
Mid-West Family Broadcasting
WSJM-FM, WIRX-FM, WCSY-FM, WYTZ-FM, WCXT-FM, WQYQ-AM & WQLQ-HD2 (Benton Harbor)
For the past 27 years, Mid-West Family Southwest Michigan has worked side by side with the Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency to help receive donations in the form of food, personal care items, and cash to support the tremendous need here in our community. The radio stations broadcast live Monday through Friday from 6a-6p at a local grocery store, asking for donations. This year, a significant amount of food and personal care items were donated and the initiative raised just shy of $50,000 cash, enough to cover their need for half the year. Without this initiative the SMCAA would struggle mightily to fill the need in the southwest Michigan community.
Midwest Communications, Inc.
WHTC-AM/FM & WYVN-FM (Holland)
Midwest Communication’s WHTC-AM/FM & WYVN-FM sponsored the Alzheimer’s Walk of Holland which helped to spread awareness about the important cause. WHTC Morning News & WHTC Brand Manager Dan Evans emceed the event.
Sinclair Broadcast Group
WWMT-TV (Kalamazoo)
WWMT News Channel 3, Versiti, and the Heart of Michigan Girl Scouts hosted a blood drive in April with 40 donors, 38 donations were collected, and 114 lives were saved, according to Versiti. Thirty of the 40 donors who participated in the blood drive were brand new donors to Versiti, organizers said.
Townsquare Media
WKFR-FM & WRKR-FM (Kalamazoo)
On May 16-18, 2024, Townsquare Media's WKFR-FM hosted their annual Roof Sit event, that raises awareness and funding to treat and prevent child abuse and neglect in Southwest Michigan. This year the event raised more than $83,000 for the Community Healing Center's Children’s Programs. Radio personalities from WKFR broadcast live from the Roof Sit site in Portage. WWMT-TV's Jessica Harthorn and Keith Thompson served as emcees for the event. For 26 years, Kalamazoo Community Healing Centers has been partnering with WKFR to raise money and awareness for the treatment and prevention of child abuse and neglect in Southwest Michigan.
From October 22 through November 22. 2-24, WRKR-FM (Portage/Kalamazoo) held "Rocker 2 The Rescue" and staged its first-ever radiothon, benefiting Catholic Charities Diocese of Kalamazoo. The effort was to raise money for charities that support families in Southwest Michigan as well as "hooking up the station's audience with tons of gifts for the holidays." Throughout the month-long effort, the station's morning show did daily check-ins with different charities supported by Catholic Charities. On November 22, the station wrapped up the fundraiser with a day-long broadcast 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. broadcasting live from Presidential Brewing Company in Portage for its first-ever radiothon, and giving out gifts all day long to listeners just for stopping by and saying hello.
Photo credit: Free Beer & Hot Wings/Facebook
Townsquare Media
WGRD-FM (Grand Rapids)
On August 8, 2024, WGRD-FM's morning show "Free Beer and Hot Wings" held a 12-hour commercial-free "Fill the Basket" radiothon to raise money for the nonprofit Kids Food Basket, which serves Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon and Allegan counties. During the radiothon, listeners heard stories of the people impacted by the organization's work and were be encouraged to donate. A total of $129,942.90 was raised, more than three times the original goal. "Our goal (was) to raise $37,000 which is enough to fund one school to receive daily sack supper meals for an entire year," said Kids Food Basket chief operating officer Erika Abbo told WZZM-TV. "Last year, we served about 10,000 evening meals each weekday to 60 schools across West Michigan, and so we are really just looking for the community support to continue to be able to expand that work." Kids Food Basket works with 60 schools, but Abbo says they're only serving about 12% of the need in the community. Support from events like the radiothon could help them do even more. "It's about knowing that, on a day-to-day basis, as children are leaving school, they can count on that meal. That meal is going to be there for them, and we are going to show up each and every day. That meal is going to go home with them, and it's going to be filled with food that they enjoy, that they've taste tested, that is kid-approved, and that is good for their bodies to really help them to be their best selves as well," Abbo said.
Districts 5-6
Plymouth-Canton Community Schools
WSDP-FM (Plymouth-Canton)
WSDP-FM 88.1 The Park, Plymouth-Canton’s student-run radio station positively impacted the local community throughout the year via partnerships with community leaders. The Penn Theatre Movie Series sponsorship allowed an excellent opportunity to support one of Plymouth’s local treasures as they work to continue serving the community. The station served as the soundtrack for a day-long Mental Health and Wellness Fair and demonstrated their service to the community through airing public service announcements and news stories leading up to the event. WSDP-FM 88.1 The Park was also proud to use their airwaves to help a student-led SJ5K Charity Run pass the million-dollar mark, benefiting families facing medical hardships.
Michigan Public
WUOM-FM (Ann Arbor)
Michigan Public partnered with several community organizations on June 17, 2023 to present Navigating a Mental Health Crisis. This free event helped provide Detroit residents with tools and resources to identify and respond to a mental health crisis. The event helped Detroiters become better equipped to handle crisis situations, informed residents when and when to not call the police, gave guidelines on who to call in a crisis, and shared what long-term support is available. Partners for this event included Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network and Wayne State University.
Lenawee Broadcasting Company & Southeast Michigan Media, Inc.
WLEN-FM & WQTE-FM (Adrian)
On November 11, 2024, Lenawee Broadcasting Company and Southeast Michigan Media held their 19th annual Thank-A-Vet fundraising event outside their studios in downtown Adrian. The event, held live on-air from 6a-6p, raised $55,179.45 for local veterans. This surpassed the record $48,000 raised in 2022. WLEN staff, local veterans’ organizations, and area business people stood curbside outside the station studios and collected funds to support local veterans. These funds are distributed throughout the year to local veterans for assistance with rent, mortgage payments to avoid foreclosure, utility bills, rental facilities to store possessions when they are displaced, transportation stipends, and for things as simple as a pair of boots to secure employment. Since 2006, the stations have raised over $500,000 to help local veterans.
McKibbin Media Group
WCSR-AM/FM (Hillsdale)
On December 13, 2024, personalities from Radio Hillsdale WCSR-FM and The Dale (WCSR-AM/W258DE) rang bells for the Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign at the Hillsdale Market House. From 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. listeners, station partners, and the community made donations totaling $6,248.12! Crew from the station included station manager and WCSR Midday Buffet host, Juli Hays; Morning Mo'Joe's Jake V. and Russ Martin (Martin also hosts Country Fried Afternoons on The Dale), Harrison James from Post Meridian, as well as Emma Rae from The Dale's midday show.
Swick Broadcasting
WBET-FM (Sturgis)
On May, 23, 2024, WBET-FM held their 15th annual Radiothon to benefit the St. Joseph County United Way recently and the event broke all previous year’s numbers with a record breaking $165,508.00 raised over an 18-hour period. The radiothon took place 6am-12am with 18 different celebrity DJs on-the-air to encourage donations. There was also a silent auction. For a market this small, the continued local support of the WBET Radiothon has been nothing short of amazing. It also shows once again the power and connection that local radio can have on its’ community. In 2022, the station raised $144,000 for St. Joseph County United Way. In 2023 the total was $157,300!
District 7
Gray Television, Inc.
WILX-TV (Lansing)
Community Service Overview
WILX is dedicated to serving Mid-Michigan by going beyond reporting the news. We believe that our community isn’t just where we live; it’s who we are, where we raise our families and serve our community.
In 2025, we expanded our Make an Impact initiative, partnering with nine local nonprofits - using our on-air, digital and social platforms. These efforts raised more than $150,000 and collected tens of thousands of physical donations, all reinvested back into Mid-Michigan communities. Featured partners included Sleep in Heavenly Peace (beds for children), Champions of the Heart (CPR & AED education), Mitten Misfits Farm Sanctuary (providing forever homes for rescue animals), Footprints of Michigan (footwear for children and veterans), Big Brothers Big Sisters (youth mentorship), Ele’s Place (grief support for children), and It’s A Breast Thing (support for breast cancer patients). Our Toys for Tots drive collected over $20,000 in toys for the local Salvation Army.
Beyond fundraising, WILX supports ongoing community needs through initiatives like Mental Health: You’re Not Alone, People Make an Impact segments, and First Alert Weather coverage, prioritizing safety. Through storytelling, advocacy, and service, we demonstrate how local television can be a powerful force for connection, safety and positive change in Mid-Michigan!
Nexstar Media Group, Inc.
WLNS-TV (Lansing)
In the summer of 2024, Nexstar Media's WLNS-TV (Lansing) held their 2024 Operation Backpack campaign. The station partnered with Catholic Charities of Ingham, Eaton and Clinton Counties and Catholic Charities of Jackson, Lenawee, and Hillsdale Counties to collect school supplies for local children, including foster children, adopted children, refugees, and others who may need assistance.
Supplies were collected from July 15 through August 8. The station had a drop-off locations throughout the Lansing region, but also offered options to donate online or via an Amazon wish list. WLNS also made a cash donation of $500 toward this year's effort.
E.W. Scripps Company
WSYM-TV (Lansing)
In keeping with its mission to help prepare children for their educational futures, the Michigan Education Trust (MET) joined WYSM-TV (Lansing) and the Scripps Howard Fund on March 4, 2024 in delivering free books to a Lansing elementary school. The books were delivered during a book fair at Vivian Riddle Elementary School, 221 Huron St., in Lansing, as part of a book donation effort that began last fall. The school currently also houses students from Willow Elementary while a new school is under construction. At the book fair, which coincided with National Reading Month in March, each student received five free books from the Scripps Howard Fund and its partnership with MET and WYSM. Each of the employees at FOX 47 has helped to make donations to buy all of this and it's really crazy and a point of pride for all of us," said station manager Gary Baxter. MET Marketing Manager Heather Barthelmes, who attended the event with MET’s mascot, Whoodini, congratulated the Scripps Howard Fund for its work and for reaching a milestone last year in its “If you give a child a book” campaign by distributing its 1 millionth book. “Michigan Education Trust has been a proud sponsor of this campaign with WYSM and Scripps Howard,” Barthelmes said. “We look forward to helping the Scripps Howard Fund team lean into distributing another million books moving forward.” MET Deputy Director Megan Patino called the partnership a “perfect pairing with MET’s underlying mission, which is to prepare children for their future educational needs.” “Having books on the shelves in your home lays the groundwork for your child’s educational future in the same way that saving money for school does,” Patino said. For 35 years, MET has been providing families peace of mind as they work, plan and save to help provide their children with a debt-free start to pursue their dreams by letting people purchase future educational needs at today’s prices.
Midwest Communications, Inc.
WJXQ-FM
Event: 22 Day 22 Push Up Challenge
In October and November, 2025, WJXQ-FM (Q106) presented the "22 Day 22 Push Up Challenge," Every day at noon for the 22 days up to and including Veterans Day, listeners were invited to join Q106's Terry Stevens and do 22 push ups at Veterans Memorials around Mid-Michigan.
The station also encouraging listeners to donate $22 to the VFW National Home in Eaton Rapids, noting that every day, an average of 22 active duty and veteran soldiers of the U.S. Armed Forces lose their battle with PTSD and lose their lives. The station wants to work together to bring that number to zero.
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Midwest Communications, Inc.
WJXQ-FM
Event: Pet of the Week
An ongoing community service effort that WJXQ-FM (Q106) presents is "The Pet of the Week." Every week the station teams up with the Ingham County Animal Control for the Pet Of The Week! Make a difference in a pet’s life and adopt!
The station also encouraging listeners to check out Animal Control's website for other pets available for adopton.
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Midwest Communications, Inc.
WJXQ-FM
Event: Warrior Wednesday Request-a-Thon
On June 25, 2025, WJQX (Q106) presented Warrior Wednesday, an event designed to raise funds for the for the VFW Veterans Service Office of Michigan. Held at a local automotive dealer, listeners are invited to make request along with a donation to the effort. This year, Q106 raised over $3000 for the Veterans Service Office. The music requested from from all genres and all for a good cause.
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Townsquare Media
WITL-FM (Lansing)
Townsquare Media's WITL-FM held its annual listener Christmas party on December 10, raising more than $7000 for Ele's Place. Ele's Place is a nonprofit, community-based organization dedicated to creating awareness of and support for grieving children, teens and their families. The event, held at Grewal Hall in downtown Lansing featured acoustic performances from country artists Corey Kent, Ashley Cooke, Runaway June. Singer-songwriter John Morgan had been scheduled to be part of the event, but had to cancel at the last-minute. All three acts took the stage simultaneously and took turns singing their hits and other favorites. According to a post on the station's website, Corey Kent kicked off the night with an acoustic version of his single "This Heart", also performing his hits "Something's Gonna Kill Me" and "Wild As Her" among others. Ashley Cooke included her #1 hit "Your Place" and a cool cover of "Last Christmas". Runaway June's new song "He Ain't My Problem" was a crowd favorite, as was their hit "Buy My Own Drinks". 100% of the ticket sales went to Ele's Place.
Krol Communications
WHMI-FM (Howell)
On October 10, 2024, Krol Communication's WHMI-FM (Howell), in partnership with American Legion Devereaux Post 141 held a day long Hurricane Relief Drive to benefit those impacted by Hurricane Helene. The drive, hosted by WHMI Morning Show hosts Chuck Edwards & Madison June on Thursday took place live at the Legion post from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The relief effort is to support those who are in desperate need of basic necessities including but not limited to: blankets, hygiene products, diapers (child & adult) water, non-perishable food items and more. There were even donations of generators! All-in-all, there were more than 500 individual donors with an estimated $200k worth of donated items, enough to fill two 26' box trucks fully loaded! In addition, there was another $8k in monetary donations toward recovery efforts. WHMI morning show host Chuck Edwards commenting: “Madison and I feel compelled to help our fellow Americans in this dire, heartbreaking circumstance. We know the people who listen feel the same way." A later post on the station's website summed it up: "Unbelievable turnout for our very first WHMI Cares Radiothon! 12 hours on the air...live and local! This is the power of of our community. We are stronger together! Sending love from Livingston County to the Hurricane Helene victims. Thank YOU 
The trucks leave tomorrow!!
Districts 8-9
Alpha Media Licensee LLC
WSGW-AM/FM, WCEN-FM, WTLZ-FM, & WGER-FM (Saginaw)
Alpha Media's WSGW-AM/FM (Saginaw) held its 19th annual Sharing Hope radiothon on December 12, 2024 to benefit rescue ministries in Mid-Michigan. Money raised during the 12-hour radiothon will help City Rescue Mission in Saginaw and the Good Samaritan Rescue in Bay City provide people in need things like a warm bed, food, clothing and counseling. Three new rescue ministries will benefit from the radiothon this year as well: Impact Designs, Samaritan Youth Shelter and Labadie Lofts. "There were over 200 people last night that stayed at the rescue mission in Saginaw or the rescue mission in Bay City. And without the mission those people would probably be out in these harsh conditions," said radiothon coordinator Bill Hobson. "So this day is about providing days of hope and care for everybody in need." The radiothon goal this year was to raise at least $60,000 and donors exceeded that with a grand total of $66,650.
Krol Communications Inc.
WRSR-FM (Flint)
On March 1, 2024, Krol Communication's WRSR-FM (Flint) held its Fox Feeding Frenzy, an annual event to raise funds for The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan. This year set a new record for the event, with contributions from station listeners reaching $68,193. The dollar amount equals 409,158 meals for our friends and neighbors in our community who are struggling with food insecurity! The event is the Food Bank's kickoff to their annual March Against Hunger campaign. Program Director and Afternoon Host Jeremy Fenech said, "Thank you, Mid-Michigan! With your help and the support of our sponsors we broke our all-time one-day record with this year’s Fox Feeding Frenzy!" The 12-hour broadcast aired 7a.m. to 7p.m. from the station studios. The Food Bank of Eastern Michigan provides food and water for it’s 415 partner agencies in 22 counties across Michigan. WRSR personalities were on the air live encouraging listeners (known as “Hunger Heroes”) to phone their pledge in.
On December 8, 2023, WRSR-FM held an 11-hour radiothon to benefit the Old Newsboys of Flint, a local nonprofit who's mission is to "Let no child be forgotten" during the Christmas season. With help from sponsors like Streeter Brothers Concrete Contractors of Burton and the Shea Automotive Group, the station was able to raise $31,016.79 through donations and sponsorships. That total alone helped more than 1,550 kids get a Christmas in Genesee County.
Townsquare Media
WCRZ-FM (Flint)
Townsquare Media’s WCRZ-FM raised $94,000 for Whaley Children’s Center (WCC) during the station’s 8th annual Roof Sit, held July 12-14, 2023, atop the downtown Grand Blanc McDonald’s. The goal of the annual three-day fundraiser was to raise awareness and donations for the needs of the 42 foster children currently living at WCC. The WCC is an independent, 501(c)3 nonprofit, nearly 100 years old, which works to provide every child with a comfortable and living home. They provide residential childcare for children five to 17 years old who have suffered chronic abuse and neglect, provide counseling, aftercare services, and more.
Radio First/Liggett Communications, LLC
WBTI-FM/WHLS-AM/FM/WPHM-AM/ WSAQ-FM
Community Service Overview
Sinclair Broadcast Group
WEYI-TV, WSMH-TV & WBSF-TV (Flint)
Mid-Michigan NOW, Dort Financial Credit Union, and Catholic Charities of Shiawassee and Genesee Counties teamed up to help those in need for the 13th annual 25 Days of Giving. Through the month of December, donations for non-perishable food items, personal care items, and winter coats, hats, gloves, and mittens were accepted at Dort Financial Credit Union branches throughout the region. Catholic Charities relies heavily on donations, which are distributed to those in need.
Gray Television, Inc.
WNEM-TV (Saginaw)
In March 2014, the Saginaw Spirit hockey team was devastated to learn player Terry Trafford had taken his own life. Since then, it has been the mission of the Saginaw Spirit to prevent suicide through education, connection to resources, and support for those impacted by suicide. WNEM TV5, along with the Barb Smith Suicide Resource & Response Network, hosts a live phone bank encouraging viewers who may be struggling to make that call that could save their life. During the 5p, 5:30p, and 6p News, the station airs a :90 interview with a resource member and a running crawl with an 800 number directing viewers to call. On February 9, 2023, the station hosted the Talk Today, Hope for Tomorrow Mental Health phone bank. The Saginaw Spirit, the Trafford Family, and the Barb Smith Suicide Resource & Response Network came together to turn this tragedy into a legacy that will help so many. The professionals who were at WNEM TV5 answering the calls were able to help several critical people and even had staff from the Saginaw Spirit assisting in looking up phone numbers and resources while the experts were on the phone.
Cumulus Media
WKQZ-FM (Saginaw)
Cumulus Media has announced that Z93/WKQZ-FM (Saginaw) and station Program Director Matt Bingham have raised over $30,000 in community donations during the American Cancer Society’s Men Wear Pink annual fundraising campaign. All funds raised benefit the American Cancer Society in Mid-Michigan and the fight against breast cancer. Z93 set a new fundraising record for Mid-Michigan, landing Bingham and the station in the Top 30 Men Wear Pink ambassadors nationwide. Together, they have participated in Men Wear Pink for the last six years, raising a total of more than $90,000, which helps fuel a live 24/7 helpline for answers and support, breakthrough breast cancer research, and much more. Matt Bingham, Z93 Program Director and Co-Host, “The Morning After with Matt and Adam,” said: “It’s tough to put into words how much it means to set a new record in Mid-Michigan of $30,025 raised through Men Wear Pink for the American Cancer Society, but I know I couldn’t have done it on my own. We would not have surpassed our goal without the help of both our listeners and the countless local businesses that offered up fundraising opportunities. It truly was a team effort and I’m excited to see how much we can raise next year!’ Ashley Wellman, Senior Development Manager, Michigan, for the American Cancer Society, said: ‘We are so thankful for everything that Matt Bingham and the Z93 team have done during their Men Wear Pink campaign over the last six years! Each year, Matt has set a new standard and been able to increase his fundraising totals from the year before, while engaging new people in the community. The team at Z93 has been instrumental in helping the American Cancer Society not only raise life-saving funds but also create more awareness around life-saving cancer screenings, resources, and patient support programs. He has been able to help us reach a wider audience then we would have been able to do on our own.” Wellman added: “You can tell that Matt and the team at Z93 have created amazing longstanding relationships with listeners and businesses in the area. We are so grateful to work with such generous supporters of the American Cancer Society, who understand our mission to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.”
Districts 10-13
Mike Murri
E.W. Scripps Company
WXYZ/WMYD-TV (Southfield)
In early February, 2025, Scripps Media's WXYZ-TV/WMYD-TV (Detroit) has announced the kickoff of the 2025 "If You Give A Child A Book" campaign. Employees at the stations along with the Scripps Howard Foundation, have made it their mission to get high-quality books to the children in their community. This past summer, the station did a call-out for donations from employees and the community. With those collected funds and with a matching contribution from the Scripps Howard Foundation, they are able to give more than 20,000 books to children in the community this year. In partnership with the United Way for Southeastern Michigan and Scholastic, WXYZ-TV is distributing books at partner schools in the Detroit and metro Detroit area through various events and book drive-thrus. Books are chosen to be specific to each school and classroom. “It does get bigger and better every year, and I can't think of a better way to start the year out than with our 'If You Give A Child A Book' campaign,” said Mike Murri, WXYZ-TV & WMYD-TV20 Detroit vice president and general manager. “Because of the generosity from our community, our employees, we're able to start this year out by distributing over 20,000 new, age-appropriate books to children in metro Detroit — and the need has never been greater. The impact is tremendous, it's transformative for these children.” The book giveaway events started this week with a kickoff book drive at Pepper Elementary in Oak Park. Each student was able to pick out five brand new books.
CBS Television Stations
WWJ-TV (Southfield/Detroit)
Event: Filthy Cares Adopt-A-Block Campaign
CBS Detroit demonstrated the impact of local broadcasting through its partnership with Detroit music producer “Filthy” Rockwell and his grassroots initiative, Filthy Cares. After featuring Rockwell on its noon show, the station helped amplify his mission to provide Christmas gifts to children in low income Detroit neighborhoods. CBS Detroit invited him back on-air multiple times, encouraged community toy donations, and joined volunteers in wrapping and delivering gifts. This collaboration not only strengthened local ties but inspired viewers across the region to give back—showing how local broadcasters can spark generosity, amplify community voices, and directly improve lives.
FOX Television Stations
WJBK-TV (Southfield)
Over the course of the year, FOX 2 supports more than 100 community causes that impact their viewing audience. The station’s biggest project of the year is fighting food insecurity. No child should go to bed hungry, but the reality is that one in five children in the community faces hunger. That’s why FOX 2 teams up with Gleaners Community Food Bank all year long. In 2023, the station produced four one-day telethon events to help inspire viewers to support the food bank. In total, the four events raised almost $1.3 million. All those donations were matched by sponsors for a grand total of more than $2.5 million. Every dollar goes to feeding hungry families, seniors, and children in the community. FOX 2 also partnered with Gleaners for a Hunger Free Summer Campaign because when school is out many children go hungry. More than 30 employees gave time on a Saturday morning to pack food boxes for Gleaners Mobile Pantries. Those mobile distributions go into the community bringing food directly to hungry neighbors. In the end, more than 21,000 pounds of food were packed which will provide 17,034 meals to those in need.
Audacy
WWJ-AM
Event: 22nd annual Winter Survival Radiothon to benefit THAW
On January 30, 2025, WWJ-AM held its 22nd annual Winter Survival Radiothon to benefit THAW, The Heat and Warmth Fund. The effort raised $298,508 to bring warmth for Michigan families in need. THAW assists families in need by preventing utility shut-offs, providing fuel, or restoring services. They also help seniors on a fixed income and others who are struggling to replace broken furnace or other essential appliances. The 14-hour event featured an online auction, hourly incentives, and generous listeners calling in to make donations.
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Audacy
WWJ-AM
Event: Salvation Army Red Kettle Day Campaign
In December, 2025, WWJ partnered with the Salvation Army on the Red Kettle Campaign. This is an effort that runs for several weeks leading up to Christmas. The station joins forces with their listeners to help The Salvation Army provide food, clothes, shelter, and other necessities to Metro Detroiters who are struggling this holiday season, and all year round. Money raised in the kettles also helps parents buy gifts for their children.
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Audacy
WOMC-FM
Event: Turn Up the Miracles Radiothon
On November 20, 2025, WOMC raised $655,000 for the Children's Miracle Network. Listeners and businesses donated to support pediatric care, equipment, research and services for Metro Detroit children. This is in partnership with Beaumont Children's Hospital in Royal Oak.
The radiothon broadcast live from Sound Space at Audacy Detroit, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Anchoring the production were WOMC personalities Beau Daniels and Val Berry.
Radiothon listeners had fun with the on-air talent and special guests and learned about Corewell Health Children’s pediatric programs from local patients and families who received care at the facility.
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Audacy
WYXT-FM
Event: Middle School Combine at the Corner
On July 16, 2025, 97.1 FM The Ticket partnered with Detroit PAL on Middle School Combine at the Corner. 577 student-athletes in 1st thru 8th grades took part, testing their skills and competing on the field at the one-day combine at The Corner Ballpark.
In addition to the Middle School Combine, the station promotes the Student Heart Check program. This program has saved dozens of lives of young athletes who undergo physicals, free of charge.
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Audacy
WYCD-FM
Event: Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon
On December 11-12, 2025, WYCD held its annual Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon. This effort raised $802,441 for pediatric cancer research and treatment. The station aired heartwarming, and emotional stories and encouraged listeners to become "Partners in Hope." St Jude Children’s Research Hospital was founded to find cures for catastrophic diseases, including cancer, sickle cell disease, HIV/AIDS, etc.
St. Jude’s hospital protocol is used at local area hospitals, which includes numerous Michigan families.
Beasley Media Group
WDMK-FM (Ferndale)
Beasley Media Group’s Detroit Praise Network held their 2024 St. Jude Kid’s Radiothon to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The daylong event took place on March 7, 2024, at the PRAISE Network Studio in the Motor City. The annual day-long radiothon was led by veteran On Air Personality Randi Myles with the help of Pastor Keenann Knox from Impact Church. The effort raised a total of $74,798, surpassing last year’s total of $67,000. In addition, Beasley sister stations WRIF-FM, WCSX-FM and WMGC-FM provided additional on-air promotion to support the event and invited listeners to make a donation at www.detroitpraisenetwork.com. “I want to thank everyone at Beasley Detroit for helping the Detroit Praise Network’s yearly fundraiser for the kids at St. Jude,” said Randi Myles. “By now everyone knows St. Jude is a cause that I have fully wrapped my arms around and the support given by all the stations felt like a dream come true.”
iHeartMedia
WJLB-FM (Detroit)
Event: Coats for Kids
This was 979 WJLB's 43rd Annual Coats for Kids Event and it took place in Eastern Market Shed 5 in Detroit on Sunday, November 16, 2025. In years past they have done a radiothon to raise money to purchase coats but found that their audience is the people who need the coats in the community so they decided to change up how they do the event and distribute coats. With the contributions from great partners, WJLB was able to collect and distribute coats to 700 kids in the metro. The line was wrapped around the building that morning to collect.
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iHeartMedia
WKQI-FM (Detroit)
Event: Mojo's Breaking and Entering Christmas
Each holiday season with the help of our amazing local community, the team at Mojo in the Morning hosts the Breaking and Entering Christmas Wish event for families in need during the Holidays. Donations are collected and used to bring the holidays to families who are experiencing some misfortune in their lives. After all the nominations are in and families have been picked, they secretly collect gifts from their wish list and surprise them with gifts leading into the Christmas Holiday. This year they were able to bless 8 families as well as a school that asked for coats for the children in attendance as many didn't have them to get through the winter.
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iHeartMedia
WNIC-FM (Detroit)
Event: Cereal Drive
From May 30 through June 7, 2025, Jay Towers in the Morning partnered with the Nurses Council at DMC Children's Hospital to benefit Gleaners Food Bank to help feed kids in the Metro who normally would not have breakfast during the summer due to school being out of session. This event is heavily promoting on WNIC as well as gets day of news coverage from Fox 2 News Detroit as Jay Towers morning anchors the news while doing his radio show in the morning. They were able to collect around 600,000 servings of cereal to benefit the kids in the metro as a part of the program this year.
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iHeartMedia
WNIC-FM (Detroit)
Event: Jay's Juniors
Jay's Juniors was created with the mission of bringing hope, joy, and magical moments to children battling chronic and terminal health conditions by sending them and their families (everyone living in the home) on a all expenses paid Walt Disney World Vacation. This was the station's 11th year doing the program and their biggest year yet. On December 2, 2025, they took 28 kids and their families on a privately chartered jet from Delta Airlines, to Walt Disney World with a 5 Day 4 Night stay at the Contemporary Resort...that includes park hopper tickets, food, spending money, parking, and ground transportation. This year they raised around $1 Million dollars to cover trip expenses. Since the start of the program they have raised over $5 Million and took more then 200 families on this trip of a lifetime.
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iHeartMedia
WMXD-FM (Detroit)
Event: Pink Gala 
On May 18, 2025, Mix 92.3 hosted their 3rd Annual re-vamped Pink Gala at the Roostertail in Detroit. They invited listeners to a upscale brunch with live entertainment and programming to show support to the women fighting, supporting, and surviving breast cancer. In addition to the the tickets sales raising money for Henry Ford's Game on Cancer, there was also a raffle to raise additional dollars for the program and in partnership with MJR Theatres they raised money via popcorn sales at their locations the previous weekend. This year Mix 92.3 raised $25,304 to support those in the fight against cancer!
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iHeartMedia
WMXD-FM (Detroit)
Event: Sista Strut
On September 27, 2025 Mix 92.3 hosted the 26th Annual Sista Strut event at Spirit Plaza in Detroit. Sista Strut celebrated survivors and honored the memory of loved ones affected by breast cancer. The walk aims to raise awareness for early detection and treatment of breast cancer, encourage participants to take advantage of the community resources that help prevent, detect and treat the disease, and teach attendees about breast cancer’s effects on the Black community. This past year's event had around 750 in attendance and raised $26,298 to benefit Henry Ford's Game on Cancer.
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iHeartMedia
WLLZ-FM (Detroit)
Event: Free Bikes 4 Kidz
WLLZ hosted the Free Bikes 4 Kidz Collection Day on Saturday, September 27th. They collected a total of 1,471 bikes across 11 locations and the Woodward Corners flagship site collected 455 of those. A local men's group - the 100 Men Club, also presented a check for $9000. There was a steady flow of cars dropping off bikes for five hours. WLLZ had a band, live broadcast, food and they were able to connect with hundreds of listeners while giving back to the community. Free Bikes For Kidz is a local non-profit that collects unused bikes, volunteers refurbish them, and they give to kids who need a bike at Christmas. They do amazing work.
2025 Stats:
- 3,327 Bikes Collected for the Program
- 2,811 Bikes given away this holiday season
WDIV-TV (Detroit)
On November 14, 2023, Graham Media’s WDIV-TV hosted their annual Help Me Hank drive for Toys for Tots. This year, the station filled two trucks with donations from viewers, all of which went to benefit children over the holiday season. The effort was deemed the most successful yet.Local Michigan Radio & Television Broadcasters Help Drive the State Economy
The local commercial broadcast industry, terrestrial radio and television stations, is critically important to the United States economy as a whole and to local economies in particular.
Local radio and television’s key role in the dissemination of entertainment and local programming is well established. Its important value to the national economy is often overlooked, and in many ways taken for granted. This analysis quantifies some of the core ways commercial local radio and television stations enhance economic productivity, efficiency, and growth.
Direct Economic Impact on Michigan
$1.71 billion
10,254 jobs
Economic Impact on Other Michigan Industries
$4.30 billion
25,582 jobs
Stimulative Effect on Michigan Economy
$31.90 billion
45,295 jobs
Total Economic Impact in Michigan
Television
Radio
All data ©2025 Woods & Poole Economics, Inc. Used with permission from the National Association of Broadcasters.