Kentucky Couple Sing Their Way to Impressive St. Jude Fundraising Success

This year marks the 21st Annual WBKR Window World St. Jude Radiothon. Over the last decade and some change, there are several people who have become staples of the event- the Angels for Ashley Cooking Team, the coordinators of the fundraising pageant Cuties for a Cure, the Howard family (the creators of Jammin' for St. Jude), and a dynamic, married, talented duo from Whitesville, Kentucky.

Emily and Mark Shelton have been a part of our WBKR St. Jude Celebrity Phone Bank since I can remember. When they were first asked to join us, they immediately rolled up their sleeves to pitch in. Mark tuned his guitar. Emily warmed up her glorious voice. Then, they joined us in the WBKR studio and made musical and fundraising magic. Together, they have helped us raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for St. Jude and they do it by refusing to accept limits.

In each hour of the WBKR St. Jude Radiothon, we set a goal for Partners-in-Hope. Those are people who pledge to donate $19 a month on a credit or debit card. We typically let our celebrity guests set their goal for their hours. Emily and Mark, in the words of legendary radio host Casey Kasem, keep reaching for the stars. For example, back in 2023, they earned an incredible $74,460.00!

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And what makes this story even more endearing is the fact that Mark doesn't really get much say in the goal-setting. According to the couple, this is typically how the conversation unfolds. Emily will ponder, stew over it, then eventually tell Mark their goal. He tells her she's crazy. He finally accepts it. Then, they come to the studio and generally make it happen. This year, they gunned for a whopping 275 Partners-in-Hope.

So, how did they do? They wrangled an amazing 275 Partners!!!

And, here's the deal. We're not finished. The WBKR Window World St. Jude Radiothon continues through 7pm CST, Friday, February 7th. If you'd like to become a St. Jude PIH, simply call 1-800-201-8883 or text HOPE to 626262.  It's $19 a month on a debit or credit card. Plus, each St. Jude Partner receives a 'This Shirt Saves Lives' t-shirt.

Our WBKR Partners will also receive this 'Music Gives to St. Jude Kids' sweatshirt!