Human-itarian Nature: Country Aircheck and Country Countdown USA's Lon Helton will receive the CRS 2020 Tom Rivers Humanitarian Award Feb. 19 during Opening Ceremonies. The honor recognizes "individuals in the Country radio industry who have displayed a magnanimous spirit of caring and generosity in service to their community." Helton is one of the founders of the Country Cares for St. Jude Kids radiothon program, a fundraising effort that is fast approaching the $1 billion mark. He is also a longtime member of the CMA Board of Directors and the organization's philanthropic arm, the CMA Foundation, which has invested more than $25 million to enrich music education programs nationwide. "Lon's work in helping to establish and then advance the St. Jude Country Cares radiothon program stands alone, but there are many other, quieter efforts he's championed as well," says CRB Exec. Dir. RJ Curtis. "Recognizing unselfish, unheralded examples of benevolence is the original spirit of this award and a fitting tribute to the character of Tom Rivers."

Adds Helton, "I'm fortunate to have been entrusted with a very large megaphone for the last 36 years. Whether at Radio & Records, Country Aircheck or Country Countdown USA, it has been a privilege to champion and chronicle the charitable efforts of Country radio, Nashville labels and country artists. It is immensely gratifying to be even a tiny part of Country Cares for St. Jude Kids, which began as Randy Owen's challenge to Country radio at CRS 1989 and is now closing in on $1 billion in donations. It is an honor and privilege to serve on industry boards that do so much for so many. Receiving this award is especially humbling because it is named after longtime friend Tom Rivers, who set such a high bar for public service." More here. Reach Helton here.