(LISTEN): KCMQ’s Atterberry Auction True North radiothon airs until 6 pm

Zimmer sister station KCMQ’s second annual radiothon benefiting Columbia’s True North is underway. True North aims to empower those who have been battered or abused by an intimate partner.

KCMQ morning host Shags tells 939 the Eagle that it’s personal for him. He says every dollar is appreciated.

“Statistically we all know someone that’s either dealing with or has dealt with domestic violence. But it carries so much shame for some reason not a lot of people talk about it. A lot of people blame themselves when it’s not their fault. And that’s what makes this radiothon so important to me too is not only are we going to raise money for a great organization, but also bringing the awareness,” Shags says.

True North’s goal is to provide all victims with safe housing, advocacy and support. Columbia Police say nine of the city’s 11 homicides last year involved domestic violence.

“True North is just so incredible with all their programs when it comes to court, counseling, job placement. Like they really want to get you out of a dangerous situation and have you living your best life moving forward,” Shags says.

Columbia’s True North received 3,700 hotline calls last year, including 52 calls about human trafficking and 57 calls for stalking. 86 percent of their victims are from Boone County. Today’s radiothon on KCMQ runs until 6 this evening.