09/22/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/22/2025 14:55
Toms River, NJ (September 22, 2025): For the fifth consecutive year, 95.9 WRAT partnered with Ocean of Love to support children battling pediatric cancer in Ocean County. This year's annual Billboard Radiothon was the biggest yet, with WRAT's Gotts spending four days living atop a billboard along a busy Toms River roadway to raise awareness and funds for local families.
The WRAT team broadcasted live throughout the event, beginning in the afternoon on Monday, September 15th, with Afternoon Drive On AirPersonality Jimmy Steal as Gotts made his way onto the billboard, and concluding Thursday night when the local fire company safely brought Gotts back down - revealing a record-breaking total!
The initial goal was $109,000, but thanks to the overwhelming generosity of RAT Rock Nation, the Ocean County community, and several major client donations, an incredible $152,492 was raised in just four days, surpassing last year's total.
Each evening featured themed activities that drew crowds of all ages, including live music from local bands, food trucks, and family-friendly fun such as face painters, a fire breather, and even a visit from Santa. Fans especially enjoyed tuning in each morning as RAT Morning Personality Carl Craft woke up Gotts in his tent on Facebook Live - turning it into a daily highlight for RAT Rock Nation.
A unique addition this year included the launch of RAT Rock Pilsner, a locally crafted beer with proceeds donated directly to Ocean of Love, further fueling community support.
"Once again, this event showed the heart and generosity of our listeners and the entire Ocean County community," said AJ Lurie, Vice President and Market Manager at Beasley New Jersey. "The funds raised will have a meaningful impact on the children and families who need it most, and we are so grateful to everyone who helped make this possible."
"This is always one of the most humbling and inspiring weeks of my life," said Gotts. "Living up on that billboard reminds me how strong these kids and families are-and to see the community rally together the way they did this year was just incredible. I'm proud to be part of it."
While donations will continue through the end of the month, this year's Billboard Radiothon has already proven to be one of the most successful in WRAT's history, making a lasting difference for local families.