KWTX-TV Waco snags top national service award

posted on 4.12.2016

Update as of 4/13/2016: "We received our final numbers on the Art Briles Boys and Girls Club fundraiser we recently had and it’s over $270,000!!! That should go a long way in helping the Boys and Girls Club of Waco. It’s a testament to our community and their belief in the benefits the of the Boys and Girls Club of Waco," said Jon Black, KWTX Promotions Director.

The NAB Education Foundation last week named KWTX-TV Waco the 2016 recipient of its Service to America Television Award, one of the top industry honors for outstanding commitment and service to a station’s local community.

Among the station’s achievements in the past year was the financial rescue of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Waco – the oldest chapter in Texas – which was on the brink of closing.

Staff sped into action, organizing a telethon and securing the assistance of Baylor University basketball coaches to raise $18,000. The station followed up by organizing a fundraising dinner hosted by the university’s head football coach, Art Briles, to benefit the group’s long-term operations.

The station also hosts “On Call” events during the year, allowing viewers to speak directly to medical and insurance experts about such topics as flu prevention, early cancer detection or the Affordable Care Act.

“Personally, the staff here is to be commended for their legacy of service to Central Texas and for supporting a culture that works to make life better for those we serve,” said KWTX-TV Vice President and General Manager Mike Wright, TAB’s Broadcaster of the Year in 2013. 

“We’re simply blessed to be in a business that affords opportunities to make a positive difference, and to tell stories that change lives.”
    
Valerie Parker, the station’s community service director, echoed Wright’s comments.

“I am so very proud to be able to work for a television station that truly puts our commitment and service to the community at the forefront of everything we do,” she said.

NABEF President Marcellus Alexander applauded the station’s commitment.

“As a native Texan who grew up down the road in Austin, it gives me additional pleasure and pride to see the good work of Waco’s KWTX-TV,” Alexander said.

“Their team and station are an integral part of this community, making a local impact through their ongoing commitment of service and involvement. Congratulations!”

Caption (l to r): Baylor Men’s Basketball Coach Scott Drew, KWTX News Anchor Gordon Collier, and KWTX News Anchor Julie Hays.

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