December 23, 2009

Radio-a-thon for Samaritan House

By John Gleason

Broadcasting from Catholic Charities’ Samaritan House in Denver, KOA radio personality Tom Manoogian—“Lou from Littleton”—hosted his annual radio-a-thon to benefit the shelter, bringing in an estimated $175,000 in pledges. 
The event, now in its 13th year, features media and sports personalities. 

“In the years we’ve been doing this, people have helped us raise more than $1.48 million,” Lou told the Denver Catholic Register. 

The station’s Steffan Tubbs, April Zesbaugh, Dave Logan and Lois Melkonian participated.  In addition, Denver Broncos Ben Hamilton, Casey Wiegmann, Seth Olsen, Ryan Clady, Tyler Polumbus, Mitch Erickson and Brandon Gorin were available at the shelter to sign memorabilia, visit with fans and help raise money. 

“Former Denver Nugget Bill Hanzlik was on the air for awhile as was the voice of the Colorado Rockies, Jack Corrigan,” Lou told the Register.  “And Coach George Karl of the Nuggets came down to sign basketballs.”
Geoff Bennett, vice president of the shelter, praised the day-long broadcast.

“Lou does a tremendous job of giving voice to those who call Samaritan House their home,” he said.  “I cannot thank him enough for his work on the radio-a-thon each year.”

Opened in 1986, Samaritan House, 2301 Lawrence St., is open every day, providing a safe place to call home for up to 388 people every night.