By Mike Fletcher
When WWKI’s Dick Bronson took a phone call in 1973 from a laidoff auto worker who couldn’t afford Christmas for his family, a tradition began.
Bronson gave the caller $20, half of what was in his wallet.
He then asked his listeners for more.
They contributed $1,100. It was enough to help several needy families in the Kokomo area — plus food, toys and clothing.
The tradition, fittingly called “We Care,” steamrolled from that one caller to a fundraiser raising more than $10 million for those in need.
With the help of co-workers Jan “We Care Jan” Buechler and Charlie Cropper, that one act of kindness spread to the whole community.
“I gave $20 that first year,” said City Councilman Mike Wyant. “I heard them on Viewpoint, picking up donations for a Chrysler worker who was having problems and donated $20. Mr. Bronson threw in $20 out of his wallet.”
Each year, volunteers gather for an annual auction that provides funds for local organizations, including the Kokomo Rescue Mission, Bona Vista, the Mental Health Association, The Salvation Army and Goodfellows.
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