The Save KPLU Campaign Reaches $2 Million
(Seattle-Tacoma, WA) Thanks to overwhelming listener support, the SAVE KPLU campaign has raised $2 million! This latest milestone was achieved through thousands of donations received, including a huge boost from a $200,000 challenge grant issued by two generous donors which was met in just six days (10 days ahead of the deadline). SAVE KPLU is well on its way to raising the money needed for 88.5 FM to become an independent, community-licensed station.
“We’ve raised $2 million in less than two months from nearly 5,000 KPLU listeners,” said Joey Cohn, KPLU’s General Manager and head of the Friends of 88-5 FM community group. “We’re very grateful for the enthusiastic support of the Save KPLU campaign but time is of the essence and we still need to raise another $5 million by June 30. Thanks to all who have made a pledge so far.”
Friends of 88-5 FM launched its fundraising campaign on January 11, 2016. The campaign needs to raise $7 million, which matches the amount of the current offer stated in the letter of intent outlining PLU’s sale of KPLU to the UW. (One million dollars in in-kind underwriting for PLU over 10 years is also part of the deal.)
A purchase of the license by the Friends of 88-5 FM means that the station will become independent with oversight from a community-based governing board. KPLU’s award-winning, independent news department will remain intact, allowing for greater, in-depth local news coverage in the Puget Sound region. In addition, NPR programming will continue, as will the award-winning jazz and blues, including weekly live performances, and the station’s support of jazz education through local high schools and colleges.
Supporters can make donations at KPLU.ORG, learn more about the campaign and get updates.
Upcoming Save KPLU Fundraising Events
Save KPLU is planning several community meetings throughout the Puget Sound area to encourage conversations around the campaign and the future of 88.5; and a number of benefit events highlighting KPLU’s programming. Coming up:
· Monday, March 7, 7 p.m. Community meeting at Bake’s Place in Bellevue.
· Wednesday, March 16, 7:30 p.m. UW Kane Hall--KPLU weather expert Cliff Mass presents a program on the evolution of weather forecasting.
· Saturday, March 19, 7 p.m. Save KPLU Kitsap Style at the Dragonfly Theatre in Port Orchard—Community fundraiser followed by a showing of Woody Allen’s Sweet and Lowdown.
· Saturday, March 26, 2:30 p.m. Community meeting at the Bellingham Public Library/Fairhaven Branch Auditorium.
Information on all Save KPLU fundraising events is available at the KPLU Calendar.