Think back for a moment to April 2001. The world looked a little different then, but in a small corner of our community, a new sound began to crackle through the airwaves. It was the sound of hope. It was the sound of a promise to walk beside you through the mountain peaks and the darkest valleys. It was the sounds of Joy.
That was the first broadcast of Joy 96.5, and this month, we are pinching ourselves as we realize it has been 25 years since we first cleared our throats and said, “Hello.”
A Legacy Built by You
For a quarter of a century, Joy hasn’t just been a radio station, it has strived to be a community heartbeat. We’ve been there in your car while you dropped the kids off at school. We’ve been in your kitchen while you cooked dinner, and in your headphones during those late-night shifts when you just needed a reminder that you weren’t alone.
We are overwhelmed when we think of the stories you’ve shared with us over the last two and a half decades. The songs that played at “just the right time,” the prayers answered, and the lives changed. You are the reason we broadcast.
Join the Celebration: Share the Joy Week (April 20–24)
We don’t want to celebrate this silver anniversary behind a microphone, we want to celebrate it with you. During the week of April 20–24, we are throwing open our doors for Share the Joy Week. Consider this your personal invitation to stop by the studio! We’ll have:
- Fresh coffee and birthday cake every single day.
- Exciting giveaways and unique auction items.
- A chance to meet the voices you hear every day.
Most importantly, we want to hear from you. Whether it’s an email, a phone call, or a visit in person, please tell us: What is your favorite memory of Joy from the last 25 years? Your stories are the greatest gift we could ever receive.
The “25 for 25” Challenge: Help Us Reach the Goal
As we look toward the next 25 years, we have a “lofty” but exciting goal. To keep this ministry strong and growing, we are seeking to raise $30,000 this Share the Joy week.
We are also launching our 25 for 25 Challenge. We are looking for 25 new monthly donors to join our community at $25 or more a month.
Whether it’s a one-time gift of any size or joining our monthly “Joy Givers” family, your partnership ensures that the music and the message continue for the next generation.
Progress Update: We are already so moved to share that 4 individuals have already stepped up to join this challenge! That means we are looking for 21 more friends to help us cross the finish line.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Whether you’ve been with us since that first day in 2001 or you just tuned in this morning, we are so deeply thankful for you. Your prayers, your encouragement, and your financial support are the fuel that keeps this light shining.
Happy 25th Anniversary, Joy family. Here’s to many more.