BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — News 4 is partnering with 97 Rock for the 31st annual Make-A-Wish Radiothon.
The event begins at 6 a.m. Thursday morning and goes until 10 a.m. Friday morning. WIVB News 4 will bring you live coverage throughout the event.
Here’s how to donate and get involved.
What is Make-A-Wish?
Make-A-Wish grants life-changing wishes to children battling critical illnesses nationwide. The goal is to grant the wish of every eligible child within our local community.
Wishes aren’t magical — they require a significant amount of creativity, time and generosity. However, each wish feels magical to a child fighting an illness, and with the help of donations from the community, Make-A-Wish can continue to provide these special experiences.
How to donate
You can make a donation by clicking here or by calling (716) 587-8500.
Many great items are up for auction throughout the event, plus donation incentives. All proceeds will stay right in Western New York.
Silent auction
Limited-edition memorabilia, unique experiences, sports tickets, autographed items and more are up for sale during the silent auction. Items up for auction include Bills, Sabres and Bandits tickets, autographed items, a helicopter tour over Niagara Falls, vacations, and even a dinner party at Mulberry’s with our own Dave Greber.
Donation incentives
- Batavia Downs Stay and Play: A donation of $225 or more will get you a one night stay for two at the Hotel at Batavia Downs, a $50 dinner credit at Fortune’s Restaurant and $25 in free play.
- Delta Sonic package: A donation of $200 or more will get you an interior cleaning on your car of truck.
- Russell’s package: A $325 donation will get you a certificate for an overnight stay for two in a whirlpool suite at Russel’s Grand Hotel as well as dinner and breakfast for two at Russell’s Steaks, Chops and More.
- 26 Shirts “Wishes Rock” tee shirt: A $75 donation will get you the official “Wishes Rock” tee shirt from 26 Shirts.
Say hello, donate in person
The radiothon will be broadcasting live from Sto Lat’s Event Center at the Eastern Hills Mall Thursday. Supporters are welcome to stop by and donate in person. To learn more about Make-A-Wish, click here.
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Aidan Joly was named News 4’s Digital Executive Producer in 2025. He has been on staff since 2022. He is a graduate of Canisius College. You can see more of his work here.
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