WABE raised over $1.1 million at “WABE Live: Acts for Facts,” the media outlet’s inaugural benefit.
According to a press release, the event, which was held March 25, is part of a broader strategy to close the $1.9 million annual gap left by the U.S. Congress’ decision to pull federal funding for public media.
“We are amazed at the momentum – being our first time, we were unsure what to expect,” said WABE President and CEO Jennifer Dorian in the release. “Selling out quickly for this high-end event illustrates the national trend of major donors stepping up in a big way and reflects the amazing Atlanta community mobilizing for WABE, which is critical to our long-term future as we shift to 100% community funding.”
550 people went to the benefit, according to the release. The evening also included appearances by David Brancaccio, host of the public radio program “Marketplace Morning Report,” and Meghna Chakrabarti, host of NPR’s “On Point.” WABE personalities like Rose Scott, Bill Nigut, Lisa Rayam and Jim Burress also made appearances, and local band Indigo Girls gave a performance.
This is the second year that WABE has gone without $1.9 million in federal funding, which accounts for about 13 percent of its operating budget.
“It’s the new normal for public media organizations — less government support means more membership, major gifts and community engagement as the lifeblood of the operation,” said Board member Julie Salisbury in the release. “To make that shift, stations like WABE are working harder than ever to reach out to supporters beyond the typical pledge drive — through educational, entertaining and mission-oriented events.”
