Online Radio: Family Life Network

Family Life Network is a Christian based radio station started about 50 years ago. It began as one man's dream and grew into something wonderful. Their goal is to reach people through Christian music and ministry via the radio. Dick Snavely, CEO, originally wanted to get into television producing but felt his ministry was something else. He started the radio station in 1977 after much hesitation. They found a radio frequency that could be moved to Bath, NY and after much protest as to the educational matter included on the station they finally built the station.

Since their creation, they have never borrowed money from a bank or lending institution. Their ministry is clear and God continues to provide. When FLN was first thought up, they burrowed money from friends and family. Three stations were built in 1989 and another three in 1992, and within a few years the loans were repaid.

The Family Life Network again has the opportunity to expand its mission and their Board of Directors has approved the acceptance of loans from listeners. In the past these loans have been charged little or no interest by the listeners, as they were willing to help this ministry grow through their resources. They are seeking loans at a minimum of $10,000 and a maximum interest rate of 5%.

Another way you can help is by making a Charitable IRA contribution. In August, President Bush signed into law the Pension Protection Act of 2006. This law allows for certain individuals to rollover monies directly from this IRA to support their favorite cause. This opportunity even provides incentives for those willing to contribute. The new law allows people who are 70 ½ years old or older to donate any amount up to $100,000 from their IRA. This donation can be made to a church or other qualified organization such as FLN. The rollover is not taxable and is only available for 2006 and 2007, meaning there is not much time left to take advantage of this opportunity. This benefits major donors as well as people who do not itemize their income taxes. Others who benefit include those who do not use their annual required minimum distribution, as the Charitable IRA rollover can be used as part of their RMD.

In 1993, FLN began their share-athon in order to raise the monies needed to keep the stations up and operating. And since then they have continued to raise funds semi-annually. The ministry of FLN continues to grow and minister the Christian community. As their ministry continues to grow, so does the cost necessary to keep their stations up and running. FLN conducts many outreach activities throughout the year, including teen and youth events, learning conferences and missions. Their ministry reaches into the New York and Pennsylvania areas as well as around the world through the Internet. They maintain a Website that reaches many more with their bible courses, counseling and quizzes. They run numerous events throughout the year in order to expand their mission and also raise funds.