New Directions will host its 23rd annual telethon on Thursday with a goal of raising $20,000 for the youth ministry.
According to director Mike Anderson, who has led the organization for 13 years, the telethon will be on air on public access channel GCTV-Channel 3 from 7-9 p.m. on Jan. 21, and will also be broadcast at intervals on WVNU 97.5 FM.
Anderson said that in years past the telethon has raised between $12,000 and $20,000, and this year the youth ministry is aiming high with a goal of $20,000.
The yearly telethon is one of the largest fundraisers of the year for New Directions, Anderson said.
Those tuning in to the telethon can expect to see musical entertainment provided by students, Anderson said, and a dance number is also planned. On-air interviews with students involved with New Directions, as well as interviews with adult volunteers, board members, and mission team members will also be a part of the programming.
Student programs offered by New Directions will also be highlighted, Anderson said.
Those programs include Kid Connection for grades third, fourth and fifth held each Thursday from 6-8 p.m. The middle school program, Wildside, meets each Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. For high schoolers, the youth ministry offers SALT (Student Action Leadership Team), which meets each Monday at McClain during lunch. The high schoolers also take part in a monthly activity.
To make a pledge during Thursday’s telethon, call 937-981-7731 between 7 and 9 p.m. Donations should be mailed to New Directions, P.O. Box 26, Greenfield, Ohio 45123. All donations are tax deductible, Anderson said, and donors will receive a year-end statement for tax purposes.
For more information about New Directions and the youth ministry programs, go to the the New Directions Facebook page or contact Anderson at 937-876-9868.
“We appreciate the continued support of the community,” Anderson said.
Reach Angela Shepherd at 937-393-3456, ext. 1681, or on Twitter @wordyshepherd.
