At KPOV, unique programming and a strong grassroots spirit come together to create a radio station like no other in Central Oregon. You will find High Desert Community Radio at 88.9 FM and also at kpov.org, where KPOV streams its broadcast live, offers archives of shows, and hosts a podcast network.
Engaged community members created KPOV as an alternative to commercial radio in Central Oregon. They envisioned a radio station run by local volunteers dedicated to creating outstanding radio specifically for the community they live in and know well. They called it radio by the people and for the people. KPOV still upholds that tradition 14 years later.
Volunteer DJs create all of KPOV’s 50 local shows, which encompass everything from civic affairs to live music played in their Bond Street studio. “We train our DJs in radio skills and KPOV’s values and then let them create their shows their way. This approach may seem a little risky, and it is not always perfect, but it produces the most original and exciting radio in Central Oregon,” says KPOV Station Manager Jill Mahler.
Because KPOV does all of this as a nonprofit station, it is not funded by commercial advertising. Instead, KPOV is supported by listeners and small local businesses, and powered by over 100 local volunteers.
“Even though KPOV is a nonprofit, volunteer-based effort, we still need all of the resources of any radio station,” says Programming Director Bruce Morris. To build those resources, KPOV is holding their Spring Membership Drive April 19-27. The goal of the drive is to raise $30,000 to grow KPOV’s platform for local community radio.
“KPOV is part of a long tradition of alternative, grassroots media that shine a light on information, creativity, and ways of thinking that mainstream media ignore. We believe the best radio for the people arises from the people when they are free to use their highest abilities and boldest imagination,” says Mahler.
To show its appreciation for supporters who join or renew with KPOV by the Membership Drive’s first day, KPOV will be holding an Early Bird Prize Drawing. “Early donors get our membership drives off to a strong start and encourage others to jump on board,” Mahler explains.
All membership pledges or donations received before 3pm on April 19 will be entered into a prize drawing for a $50 gift card to Jackson’s Corner restaurant. Pledges and donations can be made at kpov.org or 501 NW Bond Street, Bend, OR 97703.
The Membership Drive also includes a Grand Prize Drawing for two tickets to The Roots concert at Les Schwab Amphitheater on June 15. All who donate during the drive are entered into a drawing for that valuable prize.
KPOV also offers thank you gifts at various member levels. Gifts include a KPOV logo cap; one pound of coffee from Strictly Organic; local, hand-made ceramic mugs by Bend’s Mug Revolution and more.
KPOV, High Desert Community Radio, is a listener-supported, volunteer powered radio station and the only non-profit community station originating from Bend. The community station is supported by members and local businesses, and powered by over 100 volunteers
KPOV broadcasts at 88.9 FM, has a podcast network, streams live and hosts show archives on kpov.org. The station features locally-produced programs not heard on any other radio stations in the area, including civic affairs, election coverage, and the most diverse music programming in Central Oregon.
Underwriting is also available and affordable for nonprofit organizations and local businesses. For a program schedule, underwriting information, to donate or to volunteer, call 541-322-0863 or visit the website at kpov.org.
