Audacy’s 670 The Score delivered its most successful fundraiser in station history last week teaming with their partner in the Chicago Cubs, raising more than $750,000 during its second “Cubs for a Cure” radiothon benefitting BrainUp, a nonprofit focused on brain cancer awareness and research.
The 24-hour event kicked off July 31 and featured a full day of programming simulcast on Marquee Sports Network. The fundraiser served as a tribute to those impacted by cancer, including former Score host Danny Parkins’ late brother. Parkins returned to host portions of the radiothon alongside fellow station personalities Marshall Harris, Leila Rahimi, Matt Spiegel, Mark Grote, Ramie Makhlouf and David Haugh.
“This wasn’t just our station’s biggest fundraiser ever; it was a powerful testament to our community that we’re in this fight together,” said Mitch Rosen, Vice President of Sports Programming for Audacy Chicago. “We owe it all to our loyal listeners, sponsors, incredible team and our great partner, the Chicago Cubs.”
Parkins told Barrett Media about his personal tie and the hopes for the radiothon moving into 2026.
“I think the more years we do it, I think the sky is the limit,” said Parkins to Barrett Media. “Not to be overly braggadocious on it, but I’m very proud of the fact that 100% of it goes to cancer research. We have no overhead — everything is donated.”
This year, listeners heard personal stories from patients, doctors and caregivers throughout the day. This created moments that resonated deeply with the audience. High-profile guests lent their voices as well, including Cubs President of Business Operations Crane Kenney and President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer. Cubs Manager Craig Counsell and former Cubs pitcher Jon Lester were also guests. Current Red Sox reliever and cancer survivor Liam Hendriks, former Blackhawks standout Eddie Olczyk joined the effort. FOX Sports host Colin Cowherd and Auburn basketball coach Bruce Pearl also appeared to share messages of support and hope.
The radiothon is just one component of a broader “Cubs for a Cure” initiative. The multi-day campaign aimed at raising funds and awareness in the fight against cancer. Other highlights included a $50,000 guaranteed jackpot from the Cubs Charities 50/50 raffle, a “ring the bell” ceremony honoring patients in remission, and a moving Stand Up To Cancer Placard Moment.
In total, the initiative generated more than $1.5 million, with major support from partners such as AbbVie, Advocate Health Care, American Airlines, Cologuard, and Stand Up To Cancer.
For The Score, the radiothon represented more than just a ratings boost or revenue milestone. It reaffirmed the power of local sports radio to rally a community and elevate voices that often go unheard.
“This is why we do what we do,” Rosen added. “This is bigger than sports. This is life.”
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