Listeners Contribute to New England Public Radio at Record Levels

[Wednesday, July 6, 2011, AMHERST, MA.] New England Public Radio closed out its fiscal year on June 30 with a balanced budget. Listeners contributed a record-breaking $1,756,730 in support of the station - $6,700 over the $1.75MM projected goal for individual contributions. This represents the first increase in individual contributions in three years.

"For several years now, listener contributions have been flat, averaging $1.65MM annually," said Cathy M. Ives, who leads the station's Development Department. "We're thrilled to see this $107,000 increase over last year, and hope we continue to see the same growth in years to come."

The station's underwriting program also broke records this year, bringing in $1.23MM from more than 300 local and regional businesses; an increase of over $30,000 from the previous fiscal year.

"We are very grateful for the support of our listeners, and community businesses and organizations," said Martin Miller, CEO and General Manager of New England Public Radio. "Ninety percent of New England Public Radio's operating budget comes from this kind of community support. That we have exceeded our individual donor goal this year, only proves that public radio is an important and valued asset to those who live here in western New England."

New England Public Radio is also pleased to announce that $25,000 was contributed to the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts' Tornado Relief Fund by PeoplesBank during the station's June Fund Drive. The money was raised thanks to a special partnership between the station and Peoples-Bank, which contributed $10 to the fund for each pledge made to New England Public Radio during the on-air drive (June 17-28).

Funds raised will support local organizations that have either been directly impacted or are providing services to tornado victims.

Listeners can support New England Public Radio all year long through the secure pledge page at nepr.net, or by calling 1.800.639.8850.