Because People? Are Freaking AWESOME!!

It’s that time again, when I well up every morning on the way to work while listening to Kansas City's own Johnny Dare Morning Show on 98.9 KQRC. Why? Because Hope for the Holidays has cranked into gear, and John Caprefoli (e.g., Johnny Dare), Jake the Phone Snake, Gregg Todt, T-Bone, Carrie Coogan, (to some extent) Bob Edwards, and WE are all over it.

I love Hope for the Holidays, which has the fitting tagline of “it’s not a hand out, it’s a hand up.” So what is it? Well, since I am inherently lazy, let me pull my explanation from back in March …

Hope for the Holidays (it’s not a hand-out, it’s a hand-up): where listeners, many simply overlooked by conventional organizations, from Thanksgiving through Christmas either write or call in with their needs, and Johnny gets it on-air, then calls the petitioner for more specifics, and puts them together with other listeners who call in to help brighten their holidays.

As they say, if you’re in need this holiday season, maybe your neighbors can help make it a little brighter … fill out this form, or write to:

Hope for the Holidays
c/o Entercom Broadcasting
7000 Squibb Road
Mission, KS 66202

You can tell how much it hurts to have to ask for help, and how much it heals to do the helping. There are many years where a contributor was a past recipient and, sadly, the other way ‘round. The amazing thing? Within minutes, minutes, what is needed has been found as the phone lines light up with listeners who want to help.

Overdue utilities are made current, toys and clothing are delivered for children, pantries are filled, and food is put on the table. Building supplies are donated, as well as time and expertise to get the job done. Car payments are made, new tires are installed and balanced, and funds are set up so bread-winners can get much-needed surgeries without worrying they’ll lose everything while in recovery.

This is something really and truly special in and of itself, but the most wonderful thing about it is that they always, always exceed their goals. Always. Because of you.

And anyone can contribute. If you wish to remain anonymous, or can’t make it to the studio with your donation, you can bring it to any CapFed (that’s Capital Federal bank) branch … just make sure you tell them it’s a donation for Hope for the Holidays.

But don’t take my word for it, look Johnny and the crew up for yourself, HERE. Or you can take a listen LIVE, any weekday morning from 6am to 10am Central.

From Johny and the gang, “This year, more than ever, if you need a hand up, let us know. Along with the people of Kansas City, maybe we can make your holiday season a little bit brighter.”

I love these guys.