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Why Audio Journal

Audio JournalAudio JournalAudio Journal

 

Access to the Information Age for those with vision impairments

 

 

Our Mission

Audio Journal Inc., a nonprofit radio, cable and online reading service, seeks to inform and empower people who are blind, visually impaired or otherwise unable to read print and visual materials. Audio Journal also works to increase employment opportunities for legally blind individuals through training and associated services.

Who do we serve?

  • Betty Muchi, Audio Journal ListenerBetty Muchi, Audio Journal ListenerThe nearly 5,000 legally blind residents of Central Massachusetts.
  • Any others who are unable to access printed or visual information.
  • Those in danger of isolation or depression due to a social or physical disconnect.
  • Most are over 65 years of age.
  • Most live alone on a fixed income.

 

What do we do?

  • Audio Journal VolunteerAudio Journal VolunteerProvide access to information and a connection to one’s community.
  • Read current, local and national newspapers such as The Worcester Telegram & Gazette, The Wall Street Journal and 24 local Community Newspapers.
  • Offer unique special interest programming on elder and disability issues.
  • Offer award-winning general interest programming on travel, science, history and other topics.

 

How do we do it?

  • SCA Radio ReceiverSCA Radio ReceiverWith the help of 170 volunteers who read on air, provide technical assistance, have contact with the listeners and participate on the Board.
  • We provide specially tuned radio receivers.
  • We broadcast on cable access TV in 24 towns.
  • We stream live on the internet, archive programs, and offer pod casts.

 

Is there a cost?

There is No CostThere is No CostThere is no charge to the listener, but a donation within a person’s means is appreciated. We serve whoever can benefit, no one is ever turned away because they are unable to make a contribution.

 

 

 

Who pays the bills?

  • Larry Raymond, Memorial Foundation for the BlindLarry Raymond, Memorial Foundation for the BlindThe Memorial Foundation for the Blind is our largest single funder.
  • The Massachusetts Commission for the Blind contributes at the State level.
  • Local foundations support us through grants.
  • We conduct individual and corporate appeals.
  • Civic organizations contribute funding.

 

How else are the bills paid?

  • Audio Journal FundraisersAudio Journal FundraisersWe hold fund raising events.
  • We earn income – for services such as audio brochures for businesses and organizations, and other audio services.
  • People like you give generously.
  • We are a registered nonprofit 501 (c) (3).

 

How do we judge our effectiveness?

  • Vince Lombardi, Audio Journal Vince Lombardi, Audio JournalAudio Journal has received 13 awards of excellence in the last 12 years from the International Association   of Audio Information Services, the industry’s international trade association.
  • We conduct listener surveys on a regular basis.
  • We provide evaluation information to our funders.

 

 

How can you help?

Wiffy Listening to Audio JournalWiffy Listening to Audio Journal

  • Become an advocate – help get the word out.
  • Act as a referral source for those in need.
  • Chip in! Provide financial assistance.
  • Consider sponsoring a program.

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