Community Conversations: KPOV celebrates 20 years on air and launches Fall Fund Drive to support community radio
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — KPOV 88.9 FM is marking 20 years of community radio in Central Oregon, celebrating two decades of amplifying local voices and music — and they’re inviting the community to join the celebration during their Fall Fund Drive.
“It really says a lot,” said Executive Director Linda Orcelletto. “We were founded in 2005 by folks who really had a vision of what community radio should be, and that is really to amplify all voices. Also, it’s radio for the people, by the people.”
Orcelletto said accessibility and volunteerism are at the heart of KPOV’s mission. “We’re over the airwaves, so it’s free,” she said. “We’re on 88.9 on the dial. We have an app and you can also live stream us. We have about 100 volunteers — so it’s all volunteer run. I would have to say it’s the volunteers who keep me coming in every day. It just fills my heart that they want to be a part of the community.”
The station’s Fall Fund Drive runs Friday, October 17 through Saturday, October 25, with a special open house on October 19th. “We rely solely on listener support and a few grants,” Orcelletto said. “We are having an open house on the 19th, so if you’re interested about seeing what KPOV is all about, some of the behind the scenes, if you want to maybe go on the mic a little bit. Plus, you can meet the DJs.”
KPOV’s fundraising goal is $50,000. Supporters can tune in to 88.9 FM, stream online, or donate through kpov.org to help keep local voices and music on the air.
