Dolly, Wynonna, Reba + More Light Up Labor Day Telethon

For many Americans, Labor Day weekend means getting in that last bit of summertime fun. But there's a Labor Day tradition that has helped countless children and adults for the past five decades, and throughout the years, country stars have pledged their participation.

The 44th annual Muscular Dystrophy Association Telethon, hosted by 83-year-old comic legend Jerry Lewis, will feature appearances from Dolly Parton, Wynonna, Reba McEntire, The Grascals, Lee Greenwood and Neal McCoy.

Also appearing will be singer Billy Gilman, who served as MDA National Youth Chairman for six years, and is now an MDA Celebrity Ambassador.

Broadcast on 180 "Love Network" stations across the U.S. and Canada, the Telethon airs Sunday and Monday, Sept. 6-7, and is expected to reach an audience of over 40 million viewers. Millions more will tune in to watch throughout the world via the Internet, and for the first time, followers of MDA's Twitter, Facebook and YouTube sites will get a behind-the-scenes look at the show during the broadcast. The annual extravaganza raises millions of dollars for MDA's research, services and education programs. In 2008, the show brought in a record-breaking $65 million in pledges and donations.

"I'm determined to keep fighting for a cure for muscular dystrophy because my kids deserve to live long and healthy lives," says Jerry, MDA's national chairman. "The Telethon gives us the chance to help put an end to these debilitating diseases, while entertaining and educating the American public."