Star-Studded Cast Highlights Oak Crest Benevolent Care Telethon

PARKVILLE, MD—On December 6th, Oak Crest’s “Philanthropy Friday” reached new heights.

The Erickson Living retirement community hosted a star-studded cast, including its founder, John Erickson, and ABC 2 News anchor Jamie Costello during its 5th Annual Benevolent Care Fund Telethon.  The event aired on WOCV, Oak Crest’s in-house TV station.

The telethon raised $59,000 for the fund, according to Todd Sullivan, Director of Philanthropy and event host, bringing its five-year total to $229,000.

“This year is a testament to the overwhelming generosity of our residents and community business partners,” stated Mr. Sullivan.  “They continue to open their hearts and wallets to this great cause and hundreds of others in the Baltimore area.” 

“We are also fortunate to enjoy the support of the incredibly talented television production team of Josh Runkles and Chris Taydus.  Their technical abilities and endless creativity is the secret ingredient that makes the telethon successful year after year,” noted Mr. Sullivan.

The five-hour telethon included a steady stream of guests, including a trio of former Baltimore Orioles from their 1983 World Series team: Tippy Martinez, the bullpen ace, Scott McGregor, the winning pitcher in game 5 clincher, and Bill Swaggerty, a fan-favorite reliever.  

WOCV partnered with Josh Mitchell, operating partner of Mission BBQ, and his team from the Perry Hall restaurant to pay tribute to our nation’s veterans during the playing of the National Anthem at noon.

Other guests from the local business community included Alec Knight of the Brooks Financial Group, Raab Christhilf of Alex Cooper Auctioneers, Inc. and John Evans of Schimunek Funeral Home.

The Benevolent Care Fund provides the confidential assistance that allows residents who have experienced unforeseen financial burdens to remain at Oak Crest, assuring that they will receive the care they deserve.