Author, talk show host and philanthropist Mitch Albom is bringing back the 14th annual SAY Detroit Radiothon on Dec. 11, a marathon broadcast aimed at raising millions to support programs serving Detroiters in need. Albom previewed the daylong event during an appearance on Live in the D.
“We always refer to it as a hand up, not a handout,” Albom said, noting the nonprofit’s focus on practical solutions, from after-school education to health care and job access.
The Radiothon will broadcast live from the Grand Court at Somerset Collection North, with listeners tuning in on WJR 760 AM and streaming on Local 4+, ClickOnDetroit.com and mitchalbomradiothon.com. Fans can also watch in person at the mall, where Albom will sign copies of his new book and attendees can bid on auction items on site.
Celebrities and athletes are set to join throughout the day, with experiences and memorabilia up for bid. This year’s guest lineup includes Hugh Jackman, Anderson Cooper, Alice Cooper, Tim Allen, Paul Stanley, and stars from the Lions, Tigers and Red Wings.
Albom founded SAY Detroit after a column about spending a night in a homeless shelter sparked a wave of donations two decades ago. “That taught me that if you reach out to Detroiters, they respond,” he said, adding that last year’s Radiothon raised $2.3 million in a single day.
Funds support nine SAY Detroit operations, including the SAY Play Center at Lipke Park for academic and after-school support; a medical clinic that treats thousands of patients, including those without insurance; and a bicycle program employing formerly incarcerated Detroiters to build bikes for kids and workers who need transportation. Albom said the organization will announce a new initiative this week with Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan.
How to take part:
- Listen: WJR 760 AM
- Stream: Local 4+, ClickOnDetroit.com, mitchalbomradiothon.com
- Attend: Grand Court, Somerset Collection North
- Bid/Donate: mitchalbomradiothon.com