Photo via WCNC Charlotte
Power 98's morning show is gearing up for its 19th consecutive 28-hour fundraising marathon in support of The Salvation Army's Center of Hope, one of Charlotte's primary resources for individuals experiencing homelessness. The annual event has become a signature community initiative for the local radio station, combining on-air entertainment with sustained fundraising efforts to address housing insecurity in the Charlotte region.
According to WCNC Charlotte, the marathon format keeps the station's morning team broadcasting continuously for more than a full day, creating urgency and momentum around donations while maintaining listener engagement throughout the extended event. The Center of Hope serves as a critical anchor for The Salvation Army's broader homelessness initiatives across the Charlotte area, providing shelter, case management, and supportive services to vulnerable populations.
For Charlotte-area businesses and corporate sponsors, the event represents a high-visibility partnership opportunity with an established community-focused radio platform. Companies participating in similar philanthropic initiatives gain exposure while directly supporting local social services addressing homelessness, which remains a visible concern in Charlotte's downtown and surrounding neighborhoods.
The 28-hour format has proven effective over nearly two decades as a fundraising model, combining entertainment value with charitable purpose. As Charlotte continues grappling with housing affordability and homelessness challenges, initiatives like Power 98's marathon demonstrate how local media outlets can mobilize community resources and corporate support around pressing social issues affecting the region's economic and civic health.
