How Much Good?

In the wake of what seems to be weekly catastrophes, I've been thinking of how much good Radio does in its local markets, and how rarely we hear those stories.

Every station I've ever worked with feels a deep sense of connection with its community of listeners.

When disaster strikes, Radio is usually among the first responders, coordinating volunteers, raising and/or donating funds and materials to rebuild, focusing attention on those that need the most help.

In the moments following mass shootings or the devastation of hurricanes and tornadoes, Radio lets listeners voice their opinions and concerns. We help vent anxiety and restore calm. We listen as much as we are listened to.

I'd like to challenge the NAB and RAB to use some of their money and influence to build a campaign, a national campaign but created by sharing hundreds of local stories of all that local stations do for their communities.

It should be compelling. It must be professionally produced so it compares favorably to the best national spots we see and hear. And it must be ongoing.

The ancillary benefit is that it will make all of us who work in Radio more proud of what we do. It will remind us of our better selves and be a positive counterpoint to the persistent critics who claim Radio is dead.

If we don't do it, who will?