Bidding for a Cause: Steve Martin on the WTRC Telethon Auction and Community Impact

Our guest on the Abilene People podcast is Steve Martin, President and CEO of West Texas Rehabilitation Center. Born and raised in the Big Country, just north of Abilene, Steve’s journey reflects a deep and lasting commitment to West Texas.

Steve attended Texas Tech University before spending a brief time in Dallas. He ultimately returned to Abilene to pursue a Master of Business Administration at Abilene Christian University, a decision that would shape the course of his career and impact thousands of lives across the region.

As President and CEO of West Texas Rehabilitation Center, Steve has led one of the most significant periods of growth in the organization’s history. Under his leadership, more than $80 million has been raised to develop the new WTRC campus on the south side of Abilene. He is also leading the 56th Annual West Texas Rehabilitation Center Telethon, which takes place January 31.

In the podcast, Steve discusses record-setting patient care volumes at WTRC, with new benchmarks achieved year after year, with the lone exception being the COVID year. Even during that challenging time, the organization experienced a moment of pride and resilience, maintaining patient care, preserving organizational integrity, and avoiding employee layoffs while navigating the pandemic. And in keeping with its long tradition of care for everyone regardless of insurance or capacity to pay, the Rehab Center asks every patient this unique and compassionate question: “Will you need help paying your bill?”

Steve also shares insights into their much-needed planned new facility, the evolution of the telethon over the years, and some of his favorite memories from live television moments that only a telethon can produce, including a memorable “Red Steagall” moment that perfectly captures the spirit of live TV.

A major focus of the conversation is the charity auction, which runs concurrently with the telethon. Steve highlights several exciting items available for bidding, including a Tige boat, a signed Bo Jackson bat, a priceless diamond ring, and many other unique, one-of-a-kind items. The auction offers an opportunity for everyone to participate in supporting WTRC. Even those who do not win an item help make a difference, as every bid contributes to funding operational costs and patient care.

The auction is accessible through the Handbid app. Listeners are encouraged to download the Handbid app and search for “Rehab2026” to participate digitally. Steve also explains how donated items play a crucial role in the auction’s success and how individuals and businesses can contribute items for bidding. The auction is open currently and will end on January 31 at midnight. New items will be added each week until then and all items will be on display at the Abilene Convention Center beginning at 6:00 PM on January 31.

The telethon will be broadcast live on KTAB and KRBC in Abilene, as well as KSAN and KLST in San Angelo. Performers include Aaron Watson, Annie Bosko, Jake Hooker & The Outsiders, and Red Steagall & The Boys in the Bunkhouse. Steve also discusses a special tribute planned for Red Steagall, a true living legend who has been an integral part of the West Texas Rehabilitation Center Telethon for nearly 30 years.

This episode offers an inside look at leadership, community impact, and the enduring mission of West Texas Rehabilitation Center to serve patients and families across the region.