On-air fundraising will disrupt the normal routine of public radio stations like WETS-FM on Friday, but listeners can help ensure that the disruption is as brief as possible by pledging early during the stations’ “Buy Back the Fund-raiser” campaign.
Advertising doesn’t pay the bills at WETS-FM (89.5), ETSU’s non-commercial public radio station, and the station receive as much money from listeners as it does from ETSU.
Twice a year, WETS-FM asks listeners to pledge support to maintain the stations’ mix of news from National Public Radio, classical music, Americana and traditional Appalachian music, as well as other programs.
These semi-annual fund-raising campaigns interrupt regular programming for anywhere from a week to 10 days, and sometimes longer. Station Director Wayne Winkler hopes to reduce the amount of program interruption with the “Buy Back the Fund-raiser” idea.
“We have already sent letters to our regular supporters, asking them to make their pledges early,” Winkler said. “Every dollar we raise before the spring drive begins is a dollar we won’t have to ask for on the air.”
The goal for Spring 2002 fund-raising drive is $165, 000. If the goal is already met before the fund-raiser then it will be over as soon as the goal is reached.
Listeners may make early pledges by calling 1-888-895-9387, or online www.wets.org.
Individuals who want more information can call Denise Cozad at 439-6443.

Author