The WBTM radio celebrity thought it was a joke when organizers shared they wanted to raise $3,000, but he signed on for two reasons.

“I was born healthy so it is my duty to help make life better for others,” he explained. “And children should not die from health problems.”

Vardavas still gets emotional when he recalls the journey and death of his best friend who died when they were 15.

In 1974, Vardavas served as a table host for special guests on the telethon. In 1977, he became the telethon’s official master of ceremonies, and he joined the Danville/Pittsylvania/Halifax March of Dimes Board.  For the next 31-years, Vardavas nurtured and supported his charge through struggles and growth. He may be the parent but Vardavas credits the success to the extended family of board members and volunteers.

“I would face any battle with our board. Every assignment and every duty was a serious commitment,” said Vardavas. “We were successful because no one was involved for the glory. We simply believed in the cause, and community members gave even when they struggled..”

Through lay-offs, recessions and the decline in population, the telethon survived to raise more than $1.5 million. Vardavas boasted that through the Dan River Mills closing, the Good Year Plant strike and soaring gas prices, the March of Dimes made goal.  In the 1980’s the event topped $75,000 and last year brought in $46,000.

Tradition was important. The Sunday prior to Super Bowl was the established telethon date, and the committee prayed for cold, inclement weather so families would huddle around the television. Each year, the mayor, council members, ministers, school principals and civic groups were television stars. Over the years, celebrity guests included Dallas Cowboy Don Perkins, N.Y. Yankee Bobby Richardson and hometown heroes Buddy Curry of the Atlanta Falcons and Darrell Edmonds of the Miami Dolphins. Tiny Tim, Grandpa Jones, Buck Taylor, Porter Wagoner and Bill Anderson accepted invitations to Danville to talk about the March of Dimes.

Last year after 20-years, March of Dimes community director Loutricia Jacobs, announced her retirement. One by One, the Danville board family raised their hands to retire also.

“It was a great day for the Virginia Chapter when Alex was invited to help the March of Dimes,” said Patricia Simmons, state director. “He is a person who has truly made a difference in the lives of others."