Celebrating 35 Years of Impact at The Arc of Warren County Radiothon

The Arc of Warren County Radiothon: A 35-Year Legacy

The Arc of Warren County Radiothon is not just an annual event; it has become a tradition that resonates deeply within the community. Celebrating its 35th anniversary on May 1, 2025, this radiothon, in partnership with WRNJ Radio, stands as the longest-running annual radiothon in New Jersey and one of the oldest in the entire country. It serves as a powerful platform to uplift the voices of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, while also raising vital funds for essential programs that change lives.

The ambitious goal for this year's radiothon is set at an impressive $75,000. Since its inception in 1991, the event has successfully generated over $1.5 million, enabling The Arc of Warren County to provide a myriad of services to individuals and families. These services span from residential assistance and early intervention programs to recreational opportunities such as Camp Warren, day habilitation, and community-based support. Every donation made during this event directly aids in sustaining these crucial initiatives that empower over a thousand individuals annually.

As federal funding for services like Medicaid and Medicare faces increasing scrutiny, The Arc of Warren County is committed to guiding families through these challenges, ensuring consistent and comprehensive support within the community. The upcoming radiothon is a celebration, a reminder of the ongoing necessity for inclusion and empowerment of individuals with developmental disabilities.

From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the day of the event, listeners can tune into WRNJ Radio for a full day dedicated to heartfelt stories and testimonials. Families, self-advocates, community leaders, and staff will share their unique experiences, illustrating the profound impact The Arc of Warren County has had on their lives. For those who can't listen on the radio, streaming options will be available through www.wrnj.com or via smart speakers.

How to Make a Contribution

If you'd like to support Radiothon 2025, there are several ways to contribute:

- Online Donations: Visit arcwarren.org/Radiothon
- Text-to-Give: Text ‘Radiothon’ to 50155
- Phone Pledges: Call (908) 850-1000 during Radiothon Day
- Mail Donations: Send checks made payable to The Arc Foundation Fund to PO Box 389, Washington, NJ 07882.

Donors will be recognized on-air, unless they choose to remain anonymous. Gifts exceeding $500 will qualify participants for the Community Builder Circle, honoring generous contributions that bolster the programs of The Arc.

Local businesses also have an opportunity to get involved through the Empower Hour Sponsorship, available for a contribution of $1,500. This sponsorship funds a full hour of radiothon broadcast, spotlighting noteworthy stories from within the community.

Co-chairs of this year's event, Jim Travis from Otterstedt Insurance Agency and Norman Worth from WRNJ, bring a wealth of experience and advocacy to the table. Both have supported The Arc and individuals with disabilities for over 35 years, embodying a true commitment to community service. "Thirty-five years of ongoing community support is a remarkable achievement," says John Whitehead, CEO of The Arc of Warren County. He emphasizes that the radiothon transcends being a mere fundraiser; it symbolizes a collective celebration of compassion and collaboration meant for individuals with disabilities.

The Arc of Warren County has been serving individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities since 1950, as part of a national organization consisting of about 700 chapters. Establishing programs that include community living arrangements and special Olympics, it touches the lives of more than 1,100 people each year.

For further inquiries on how to support the Radiothon, interested parties can reach Annamaria Lalevee at The Arc of Warren County via phone at (908) 223-0884 or email at [email protected]. The work of The Arc, matched with the love and care from its supporters, makes a significant difference in the lives of countless individuals and families, further enhancing the fabric of our community.