For 24 years, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has been bringing together country music artists and radio personalities for one weekend in January.

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ALSAC (American Lebanese Syrian Associated Charities) was formed by entertainer Danny Thomas in 1957 and has been the exclusive fund-raising organization for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital since that date.

24 years ago, ALSAC and country legend Randy Owen established ‘Country Cares for St. Jude Kids’ in an effort to bring together country music and radio to raise funds by holding yearly radiothons. To date ‘Country Cares’ and the over 200 radio stations have raised more than $400,000,000.00 for St. Jude.

Many country artists have given their names and time over the years with recorded endorsements; visits with patients of the hospital, time spent with country radio stations, and more. Some of these artists include Randy Owen, Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, Lady Antebellum, Tim McGraw, Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Darius Rucker, Ronnie Dunn, Taylor Swift, Martina McBride, Chris Young, Brad Paisley, Joanna Smith, Cassadee Pope, and more.

During the January seminar, 3 days are spent sharing ideas and learning everything possible about the hospital. Then taking this information back to their radio markets and turning that into much needed funds for St. Jude.

For me, it’s been the opportunity of a lifetime. Not only have forged great friendships but I’ve been personally touched by the children of St. Jude and the wonders that go on within its walls.

According to Country Cares’ website, “The daily operating cost for St. Jude is $1.7 million, which is primarily covered by public contributions. During the past five years, 81 cents of every dollar received has supported the research and treatment at St. Jude.”

 

The Country Cares for St. Jude Kids seminar is making a bigger difference each and every year.

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