Chicago’s WTMX “The Mix” (101.9) will produce and air $15,000 worth of advertising for Suitcase Party, marking the first time a radio station has sponsored the Northwestern philanthropy, event organizers said.

The radio station, which attracts more than 1 million listeners each day, began running public service announcements Sunday about the April 6 event, said Suitcase Party co-chairman Scott Curcio.

“Suitcase Party used to be just a party on the campus, and now it’s become a full-fledged philanthropy event,” said Curcio, a Medill senior. “Having The Mix as a sponsor shows that effort.”

The Mix’s afternoon disc jockey Brian Peck will be a guest emcee at the event for an hour or two, Curcio said. He said The Mix’s road crew will also provide music and motivation for Suitcase Party by giving out CDs and T-shirts.

“(Suitcase Party is) an event we’d like to be associated with,” said George Economos, promotional coordinator for The Mix. “The Mix strives hard to reach out to the community.”

Economos said he will attend the party, benefiting Inspiration Cafe in Chicago this year. He said he hopes to meet NU students and learn about Inspiration Cafe, a restaurant and resource center for the homeless.

“I can’t wait to see all the support in the university community,” he said.

Curcio said he is confident this year’s party will be a success. He also said The Mix’s sponsorship will give students one more reason to attend the party.

Suitcase Party co-chairwoman Kelly Corcoran said this year’s event has been well-publicized.

“This year we have definitely raised more awareness on campus about Suitcase Party,” said Corcoran, a Weinberg junior. “It’s hard to find someone on campus that doesn’t know about the event or about Inspiration Cafe.”