KRFY readies for annual fund drive
<p>KRFY Community Radio is seeking volunteers and supporters as they prepare a summer fundraising drive to meet the station’s financial obligations. Pictured, from left, are station organizers Suzy Prez, Meredith Field and her son, Odin Clark, and Diane Newcomer. (Photo by CAMERON RASMUSSON)</p>
SANDPOINT — There was a time when the outlook didn’t look nearly so shiny for Panhandle community radio station 88.5 KRFY.
At the beginning of 2012, it looked as though the station was going to shut its doors permanently. Based on the healthy level of support the station receives today, however, it’s hard to believe the situation was ever so dire. It’s a testament to the dedication of station volunteers and the support of the county that the station maintains its diverse array of offerings.
“One of the essential things about our longevity was our underwriting campaign,” said KRFY volunteer Suzy Prez. “Between January and May, about 20 underwriters stepped up and said they were going to support this station.”
Even so, a community radio station needs a community to keep on the air, and maintaining a radio station comes with serious expenses. In addition to the thousands it takes each month to pay the bills, the radio station also has to renew its license with the Federal Community Commission every three years.
To cover those cost, KRFY organizers are preparing to renew fundraising efforts this June. In true public radio style, the KRFY board plans to initiate a campaign for donations, underwriters and official membership.
Underwriters saved the station from closure the first time around, and station supporters are hoping to add more businesses to the fold this year. KRFY underwriters are listed on the station website and receive on-air mentions during the day.
Individuals can help out by becoming KRFY members. By joining at the basic level, which runs at $35, members will receive a membership card that can be presented at participating businesses or used with coupons to receive discounts. Businesses can also help this process by adding incentives to the membership system.
“We see the membership system as a handshake between us and local businesses,” Prez said.
Finally, board members plan to initiate a pledge drive next month, during which volunteers will call community members to seek help directly. No donation is too small, but contributing at specific levels will earn gifts from the station. In addition, everyone who calls in during the pledge drive for any reason will be eligible to win a locally handcrafted guitar.
Those who wish to volunteer to assist with the drive should call volunteer coordinator Diane Newcomer at 266-1366.
A meeting is set for 5 p.m., June 12 at the Sandpoint Public Library, 1407 Cedar St. The meeting will cover the status of the station and where it will be heading in the future.