As the weekend fast approaches, the city of Albany, New York, is buzzing with anticipation for the annual Ronald McDonald House Radiothon for the House that Love Built. This event, beginning on Friday, is a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of community spirit.

The Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) has been supporting families with sick children for decades, providing a "home-away-from-home" for families so they can stay close to their hospitalized child at little to no cost. The Albany chapter of this global non-profit organization is no exception, and their annual Radiothon is one of their most significant fundraising events.

The Radiothon will kick off early Friday morning, with local radio stations broadcasting like B95.5, Fly92.3, 100.9/107.1 The Cat, Jamz 96.3, and Magic 590am/100.5fm live with the Ronald McDonald House. The airwaves are filled with stories of hope, resilience, and the incredible impact that the Ronald McDonald House has on families navigating the challenging journey of childhood illness. These stories, shared by families who have stayed at the House, volunteers, staff, and community members, serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of this cause.

Listeners are encouraged to call in and make a pledge starting Friday by calling the phone room at 518-438-2655 with every dollar raised going directly towards supporting the operations of the Ronald McDonald House in Albany. On average, it costs around $120 per night to accommodate a guest family at the Ronald McDonald House. The funds raised during the Radiothon help to cover the cost of lodging, meals, and supportive services for families staying at the House.

Listeners are also encouraged to donate online through the home page of our stations websites as well as at RMHCofAlbany.org or by texting RMHCCR to 56651. Our goal during the 2024 Radiothon is to raise enough to fund 1,000 nights of comfort, hope and love at “The House That Love Built. Since opening their doors in 1982, “The House That Love Built” has welcomed more than 23,000 guest families and started as an 8 bedroom home on S. Lake Avenue. Today, there are 25 private guest rooms – each with its own bathroom – across three connected houses, just steps away from the Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital at Albany Med. The House provides a home away from home for approximately 400 families every year.

The Radiothon is not just a fundraising event; it's a community gathering. Despite the serious nature of the cause, the atmosphere is filled with positivity and warmth. Local businesses, schools, and community groups are also getting involved, hosting their own mini-fundraisers or donating goods and services to be auctioned off on-air.  Saturday, you can even join us and donate in person at Crossgates Mall from 10a to 4p with volunteers in THREE locations, outside of Best Buy, in front of Apex Entertainment, and in front of Burlington.

As the Radiothon wraps upon Saturday, there's a palpable sense of accomplishment and unity. The event serves as a reminder of the power of community and the difference that can be made when people come together for a common cause. The Ronald McDonald House Radiothon in the Capital Region is more than just a fundraiser; it's a testament to the strength of human spirit and the power of compassion.

Feature photo courtesy of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region