Hundreds of callers, online donors and private sponsors teamed up to raise $202,351 for work in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park through the Friends the Smokies’ 21st annual telethon last week. It was the second year in a row telethon donations topped $200,000.

“It was heartwarming to see the support pledged by so many individuals during Friends of the Smokies’ telethon. Their gifts will have a lasting impact on the Smokies and we are truly thankful,” said Cassius Cash, superintendent of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The television program is over, but park supporters can still donate to the telethon online at www.friendsofthesmokies.org/donate. The money will help fund more than $800,000 of park needs this year, including black bears management, programs for school children and preservation of historic buildings.