Montgomery County Community College students had plenty of reason to celebrate and be thankful in November, as they helped raise nearly $1,000 for their classmates in need through two virtual fundraising efforts.  

The Montco Radio club and Exercise Science and Wellness (ESW) students each held separate events last month to encourage College community members to donate to the MCCC Foundation. The Foundation supports the College’s Emergency Fund, which helps students who need assistance with tuition, living costs, or other financial needs due to current circumstances; Technology Fund, which uses money to purchase laptops and other equipment; and general scholarships.

Montco Radio held its first-ever “Mix it Up Marathon” Saturday, Nov. 14, featuring over 15 hours of live programming beginning at 8 a.m. Shows ranged from sports talk, to heavy metal, classics and rock music. This year’s event raised $703 from listeners around the world.

On Wednesday, Nov. 18, ESW students worked up a sweat for a half hour during the virtual Montco Games and helped raise $261. In ESW Instructor Michelle Donovan’s class, 14 students and a guest performed “8,235 jumping jacks, 200 burpees, 397 baskets, 773 sit ups, and 2,200 jump ropes!” Donovan said she was enormously proud of all who participated.

“It’s great to see the Montco community come together to sweat for a good cause,” she said.

Montco Radio show hosts said they too were thrilled to help such an important cause, especially during a difficult time as the COVID-19 pandemic.

“COVID 19 has affected everyone, but some more than others,” said Montco Radio Station Manager Joey Abecid. “With as little as $1 donation, we helped Montco students with getting food, housing, education and so much more.”

Dave Aston, host of the “Small Guy Podcast,” described MCCC as his second home.

“A warm, inviting and educational environment where everyone, alumni included, are encouraged to stay a part of a great community,” he said. “Montco Radio is its worldwide heartbeat, broadcasting the music and ideas of a diverse band of people to the millions and millions. Truly existing as the only place Where Music and Minds Meet.”

Likewise, Charles McGrother, host of “Charlie’s Corner” said it was an honor to be a part of a broadcast that could be heard globally.

“It is even more incredible that my voice can be used to help others,” he said. “Montco Radio is a place that gives me comfort, gives me a purpose, and allows me to be me. We are in a position to assist those students who may need a little lift to help them stand a little bit more secure.”

Danny Kuchler, host of “Hard ‘N’ Heavy” said he was “proud to be a part of the Montco Radio Family and the Montco family in general. Anything we can do to help out people during this trying time would be excellent.”

Similarly, Kandi Burton, host of “Kandi’s KISS Korner,” said the event was near and dear to her heart.

“I’m willing to do anything to help out and give back to such a wonderful group of people that have always had my back and inspired me to never give up,” said Burton. “To be a part of this event, alongside the greatest radio personalities in the history of radio is a dream come true and I’m really excited to see everyone come together to support such a wonderful cause!”

“I am proud to be working for Montco Radio,” said Adam Rothchild, host of “Adam Avenue Radio,” “and I can hardly wait to see what the future holds.”