The Central Alberta Optimist Clubs along with KG Country 95.5 FM and 98.9 ZED FM have joined together to host a 24-hour Radiothon to raise funds for sick kids in the Red Deer community.

“We will have the two radio stations and a bank of eight phones at the mall and will be broadcasting live from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days,” said Edie McInnes, chair of the event.

There will also be eight mayors from all around Central Alberta attending the event including from towns such as Caroline, Blackfalds, Eckville, Innisfail and Red Deer.

On April 28th and 29th donations can be made by calling 403-342-KIDS and businesses or individuals can challenge others to match or beat their pledges.

“A car dealership will call in and pledge $100 and challenge other dealerships to meet or beat their pledges on air. It’s a lot of fun on radio,” said McInnes.

Charitable tax receipts will be issued for any pledge exceeding $20.

One of the greatest benefits to this fundraiser is that the money raised will stay in Central Alberta and benefit those that are considered neighbours.

The money raised will be going to support the Ronald McDonald House of Red Deer as well as Camp Quality, a camp run by volunteers for kids with cancer at Sylvan Lake.

Last year the event raised $150,000.

Also included will be some auction items like sports jerseys, a signed guitar from 53rd Street Music, a $5,000 roofing package, Rebels box seats and a Rebels signed hockey stick.

On both days there will be a lunch hour concert at the mall. On Thursday it will be country singer Aaron Pritchett and on Friday it will be Tara Oram.

For more information or to make a pledge prior to April 28 call Edie McInnes at 403-318-5782.

kpalardy@reddeerexpress.com