FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO) – WOWO’s 77th anniversary Penny Pitch raised a total of $135,346 for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Fort Wayne.
After two days at Parkview Field, the group will use the money to cover the cost of a brand-new home, built by members of the community.
Habitat builds homes through community support for low- to middle-income families and walks alongside qualified families through a holistic home-buying process. They also operate The Habitat ReStore, which is a nonprofit home improvement store and donation center where sales support building Habitat homes.
The organization has built nearly 350 local homes since 1986.
More information about Habitat for Humanity of Greater Fort Wayne can be found here.
Read the full press release below:
The WOWO community, affectionately known as “WOWOland,” has once again showcased its incredible generosity and unity during the 77th Annual Penny Pitch campaign, raising over $135,346 to benefit Habitat for Humanity of Greater Fort Wayne. This year’s campaign surpassed all expectations, proving that even in challenging financial times, the spirit of giving remains strong.
“Now that I’ve had time to reflect on the gravity of the contributions, I am truly overwhelmed with gratitude,” said Kayla Blakeslee, Host of Fort Wayne’s Morning News. “WOWOland, you showed up—as you always do. From $5 donations to a remarkable $25,000 contribution, every dollar brought us closer to making a lasting impact.”
Highlights of the Campaign
- Ruoff Mortgage, led by Mark Music, made a breathtaking $25,000 donation.
- NAI Hanning & Bean’s Bill Bean contributed $10,000, despite already making a significant pledge to the Salvation Army in Allen County.
- Votaw Electric Inc. stepped up with an incredible $20,000 donation, saying it was simply “the right thing to do.”
- Berne Ready Mix and Keystone Concrete not only partner with Habitat for Humanity but also gave a generous $10,000.
- Salvatori’s Restaurant Group and Garmann Miller each donated $2,000.
- Adam Dager with All-American Stores Official contributed over $17,000.
Every year, WOWO’s Penny Pitch campaign highlights the compassion and resilience of the Fort Wayne community. Despite financial difficulties, record inflation, and the added pressures of the holiday season, WOWOland rose to the occasion to fund a home for a family in need.
“The generosity poured out during this campaign was humbling,” said Jon Zimney, WOWO Program Director. “From small contributions to life-changing donations, compassion was on fully display during our Penny Pitch campaign reflecting the true spirit of the Penny Pitch mission – Hoosiers helping Hoosiers.”
A Legacy of Generosity
Penny Pitch Inc. has been a cornerstone of WOWO’s community engagement for 77 years, embodying a mission to bring people together for the greater good. This year’s extraordinary results demonstrate the unwavering commitment of WOWOland to improving lives in Fort Wayne and beyond.
“Thank you, WOWOland, for being the heart of this mission,” said Blakeslee. “Your giving spirit reminds us that the greatest wealth lies in the willingness to help others. Merry Christmas, and God bless.”
About Penny Pitch:
Founded in 1948, Penny Pitch is an annual fundraising campaign supporting local nonprofits and initiatives that directly benefit northeast Indiana. Over the decades, it has become a cherished tradition, fostering hope and generosity among WOWO listeners and donors alike.
