Listeners Lend Support for Shine 104.9 Ministry

By Isaac Meythaler, UCC Communications Coordinator

Shine 104.9 (KEEH) raised $317,272 during their annual Fall Sharathon event the last week of October 2026, surpassing the local Christian radio station’s $300,000 goal. As a listener supported non-profit station, donations go towards annual operating expenses; including tower rent, staff paychecks, advertising, electricity, and outreach events.

“With so many other music platforms and signals being piped into a local community from distant studios, it is encouraging to hit our goal and know our listeners find our station relevant to their spiritual lives,” said Darin Patzer, general manager for Shine 104.9.

KEEH staff have served the greater Spokane, WA and Northern Idaho region for 33 years, all while remaining non-commercial and with no subsidy from any entity.

“We are so grateful that all these years God has been faithful to provide a balanced budget as we seek to honor and uplift the name of Jesus,” said Patzer.

Key to the fundraiser’s success was community volunteers. More than a dozen volunteers served during the three-day fundraiser, with several generously volunteering for multiple shifts. Volunteers gave time answering phone calls from donors, entering pledge information, and praying with callers.

“I’m incredibly grateful for our sincere and delightful volunteers who genuinely care for each caller and make them feel like family,” said Melissa Baskett, Shine 104.9 office manager. “Their cheerfulness reminds us that this ministry is about so much more than answering phones or taking pledges. It’s about making sure every person who reaches out feels welcomed, valued, and appreciated.”

Throughout the fundraiser, listeners also shared personal stories of how Shine 104.9 has made a difference in their lives.

“Almost 10 years ago now, I found myself experiencing a tumultuous divorce,” said one listener. “[Listening to Shine 104.9] completely changed how I thought about God, myself, and others. I believe God used this radio station to completely change my life!”

During each Sharathon, Shine 104.9 shares a portion of the money raised with other local nonprofits. Pledge callers are asked if they will allow $5 of their gift to be shared. This year, Shine Gives Back benefited Youth for Christ, an inner-city mentoring ministry in Spokane.

Thanks to the generosity of the community, Shine 104.9 will continue to broadcast Christian-contemporary content and provide listeners with ministry and a sense of God’s love.

To learn more or donate to Shine 104.9, or to download the free Shine 104.9 app, visit shine1049.org.