KMLE 107.9 (KMLE-FM), an Audacy station in Phoenix, raised over $57,000 for Soldier’s Best Friend (SBF). All proceeds go toward SBF’s mission of providing U.S. veterans living with service-related PTSD or TBI with rescued service and therapeutic companion dogs. The cost to rescue, train and equip each shelter dog is approximately $7,500.

The initiative was led by morning show hosts Niko Petrou and Gabe Mercer in honor of Veterans Day. The duo walked 15 miles across the valley from Scottsdale Quarter to Four Peaks Brewing Company on November 9 and 10th, broadcasting live and accepting donations for SBF on the air from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. MST. 

The event had a huge impact on the community as listeners came out to support Niko and Gabe during and after their walk, including a veteran and his 9-month pregnant wife who gave birth less than 24 hours later. 

“Helping those who give the ultimate sacrifice is the least we can do. When I first saw the results and the community that Soldier’s Best Friend has created with their service dogs for veterans, I knew I wanted to be involved,” said Petrou. “If we can help just one soldier suffering from PTSD live somewhat of a more normal life, then we’re doing the right thing for our veterans.”

“Far too often, our American heroes return home and are forgotten about,” said Mercer. “Soldiers’ Best Friend offers the best medicine: a service dog. We look forward to raising as much money as possible for such an incredible organization and to bringing more awareness (and, hopefully, new veterans) to the program.”

Listeners can tune in to KMLE Country 107.9 (KMLE-FM) in Phoenix on air and nationwide on the Audacy app and website. Fans can also connect with the station via X, Facebook and Instagram.