WGY-AM Albany, N.Y., was one of 10 NAB Crystal Radio Award winners for 2009. Here is the summary of their 2008 community service efforts that the station submitted as part of their entry:

For 86 years, WGY-AM has believed in service to the community and providing vital information, especially during times of crisis. In 2008, WGY and its listeners donated almost $2 million in money, support and services to 211 local organizations. We devoted three days of programming and raised $317,050 for the Children’s hospital. Our “Christmas Wish” campaign raised $73,837 for groups that help children in need. When 229,000 homes and business lost power during an ice storm, WGY was a lifeline – the only place people could turn to for four days to get crucial, and in some cases lifesaving, information on their battery-operated radios. WGY donated 24,152 minutes of time on air and online, valued at $823,900, to nonprofit groups and organizations. Our employees gave much of their own time, volunteering 860 hours of service. WGY and its listeners worked together to fight breast cancer, help stricken war veterans, feed the hungry and even buy mosquito netting to protect African families from malaria. Together we raised $14,000 to keep a pool open for youth swim teams and made sure a local family had the food and clothing it needed. We consider serving our community a duty and an honor.

Now is the time to begin collecting materials for your 2010 Crystal Radio Award entry, in preparation for the February 2 deadline. Entry information can be found here.