A picture taken from Telemiracle 1. Among those on stage were former Prince Albert mayor and radio station general manager Jim Scarrow, and former 900 CKBI morning host Jack Cennon. (Image Credit: Submitted/ Jim Scarrow)

By Nigel Maxwell

Saskatchewan pride

Founding director reflects on 50 years of TeleMiracle

Feb 27, 2026 | 6:01 AM

This weekend, Kinsmen TeleMiracle is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Former Prince Albert mayor and radio station general manager Jim Scarrow helped co-host the first telethon back in 1976, and also helped produce it for several years after.

“I think the biggest surprise is that it has been 50 years because those years go by quickly and so much has been accomplished by the people of Saskatchewan,” he said.

Since its inception, the provincial telethon has raised more than $171 million for the Kinsmen Foundation to help people get special needs equipment, travel assistance to access medical treatment and more.

“It’s comforting, and I think a continuing source of pride for the people of Saskatchewan, the recipients of the foundation and all those who have put committees together from many communities who have made sure the telethon event has been successful.”

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Scarrow was himself a longtime member of the Kinsmen Club, and explained planning and brainstorming for the event started years prior to its inception. He said it was based on a desire to help all the various Kinsmen clubs across the province, regardless of their size or whether they were in a city or a town.

He added the Kinsmen Foundation is founded on the principle that everyone has a purpose and a value, regardless of their physical or intellectual challenges.

The final total announcement at Telemiracle 1. (Image Credit: Submitted/ Jim Scarrow)

The first telethon would go on to raise over $1 million, which in the late 70’s was almost unheard of and far exceeded their initial goal of just $25,000. Scarrow said the desire to meet the demand for services and support a large number of people in Saskatchewan was the driving force behind the fundraising effort.

“The proof is in the pudding, and year after year, the people of Saskatchewan, for 50 years, which is a long time for any undertaking, is pretty amazing stuff,” he said.

Reflecting back on his own personal memories, Scarrow fondly recalled co-hosting with the late Jack Cennon, who in addition to being morning show host on 900 CKBI, was also a talented musician and made sure the entertainment lineup was the best it could be for the telethon.

Scarrow also noted the work of the fellow directors and the lifelong friendships that were created. He said at the end of the day, putting together a 20-hour telethon takes a lot of work, but added when all the pieces come together, it’s a great feeling.

“At the end of it, it was pretty exhausting, but it was always an amazing high that we were able to accomplish so much with the help of so many people,” he said.

In celebration of 50 years, this year’s telethon has been extended by two hours. TeleMiracle 50 will begin at 7 p.m. on Feb. 28 and conclude on March 1 at 5 p.m. for a total of 22 hours on both CTV Saskatchewan channels and online at www.telemiracle.com. 

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 nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell