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| WGN-AM Celebrates '720 Day' On Tuesday |
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| Written by Larz | |||
| Sunday, 18 July 2010 13:22 | |||
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The new ownership and management at WGN-AM has made numerous changes over the last two years. Thankfully, there is one change they did not make. The WGN Radio Neediest Kids Fund, a fund of the Tribune-operated McCormick Foundation, is still going strong.
The Neediest Kids Fund was first started in 1969 by legendary Chicago radio host Wally Phillips. At the time, it was used as a way to get holiday presents to needy children. It eventually evolved into a full program, going all year long. In addition to its annual holiday drive, the charity would also award grants to non-profit organizations that help feed & clothe children in need, as well as organizations provide stay-in-school and job preparation programs for at-risk youth. In 1992, the WGN Radio Neediest Kids Fund was taken over by the McCormick Foundation. Since then, more than $18 million has been granted to local nonprofits through the WGN Radio Neediest Kids Fund. Earlier this month, the WGN Radio Neediest Kids Fund distributed $500,000 in grants to 28 agencies to aid with their youth programs. To see the 28 agencies that have received help from this fund so far this year, click on this link HERE. The Neediest Kids Fund has been WGN's pet charity for over 40 years. Staring in 2007, July 20th has been designated as "720 Day" -- a day set aside to focus on the WGN Radio Neediest Kids Fund and the good the organization has done, along with raising more funds for it. This Tuesday, July 20, 2010, WGN-AM will be celebrating the 4th Annual "720 Day." In years past, WGN has done all-day live remotes at a location and invited fans to come visit the personalities, enjoy the festivities and donate money in person. This year, "720 Day" will be done from within the regular radio studios, but with each of the hosts talking about the fund and the reasons behind the special day. "720 Day" kicks off in a great way just after Midnight, early Tuesday morning, with a special musical show with WGN's overnight hosts, Steve & Johnnie. They will be having their "July Jam" with live, in-studio performances by some top Chicago talents, including Jim Peterik, Ronnie Rice, Cathy Richardson and Lisa McClowry. Simply call in to the show, make a pledge to the Neediest Kids Fund and they will play your request! During the day, Greg Jarrett, John Williams and Garry Meier all have interviews lined up that talk about the Neediest Kids Fund, as well as increasing awareness of the fund and its reason for existing, along with discussing topics about ways to help & empower Chicago's youth. Of course all day long, there will be spots asking for donations to this cause. There are a few different ways to donate to the WGN Neediest Kids Fund. Donations can be accepted online at this link HERE, by calling in to a toll-free number: 1-800-516-8703, or via mail by sending a check or money order to: WGN Radio Neediest Kids Fund 435 N. Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL 60611 As a fund of the McCormick Foundation, every donation to the Neediest Kids Fund is matched at 50 cents on the dollar. Additionally, 100% of the funds raised goes towards children in need. The McCormick Foundation and WGN Radio cover all of the administrative and fundraising costs. Charitable contributions to the WGN Radio Neediest Kids Fund are accepted throughout the year at the above address and online link, not just on "720 Day" and the holiday season at year's end. 
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