By Charlotte Murphy, IU Corps Intern
WFHB Firehouse Broadcasting is a 24/7 local radio station that exists to provide an open forum for the discussion of ideas and to celebrate the local cultural diversity here in Bloomington. WFHB envisions a sustainable, diverse, and participatory multimedia service that contributes to an entertained, informed, and empowered community. About 80% of the programs are locally produced from volunteer contributors—some of which have been around since the beginning of the station in 1993!
Jessie Grubb is the Director of Youth Radio for WFHB and noted how easy it is to get involved with broadcasting.
“It’s a really fun place to volunteer [and share your creativity with the community], so finding people isn’t too much of a challenge,” Grubb said. “Anyone can volunteer here. There are low barriers to getting started and [we are] a training ground for anyone interested in broadcast radio. IU has WIUX [which focuses on music], but if you’re looking for something to get more involved with the community and the local music scene or community government, WFHB is a great option.”
Right now, WFHB is currently hosting their Fall Fund Drive, except this year’s is a little different.
“This year is a little different due to the recent cuts for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which was shut down,” Grubb said. “Our goal for this fall fund drive is higher than it has been in the past because we have to make up for that lack of funding, but fortunately, we have a challenge. There’s an anonymous donor willing to match everything raised up to $100,000. We’re shooting for the stars.”
Each show on the air has its own goal for the Fall Fund Drive. To support, you can call in or donate online during their show to help individual DJs. If you donate before October 31, donations will be matched up to $100,000 from an anonymous donor.
“I feel like a lot of people feel like there’s nothing they can do to change what’s going on in the world,” Grubb said. “But if we start with something small and something local, you can make a difference.”
There are many ways to make a difference in the Bloomington community and WFHB is a great opportunity for IU students to engage with others. It’s important that stories are told and that people have a place to talk about cultural issues.
For IU students looking to get involved, reach out to Jessie Grubb at youthradiodirector@wfhb.org or on Instagram at @wfhb. Anyone between the ages of 13–20, that is the place to start, and no experience is needed.
If you’re 20 or older, you can attend new volunteer orientation on the first Wednesday of every other month. Check out the WFHB website to find out meeting times for new volunteers.
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