A federal package that eliminated some $1 million in funding for WCTE will not close the station’s doors.
WCTE President and CEO Avery Hutchins said the $1 million loss accounts for some 40 percent of the station’s budget. Hutchins said the station has about a year’s worth of reserve funds, giving the station time to explore new avenues for funding.
“We are not going to just sit here and just be paralyzed with this decision,” Hutchins said. “We are going to be looking at partners, we are going to be looking at opportunities. We’re going to be looking way outside of our box than we’ve ever looked before.”
Hutchins said WCTE will seek outside donations, grants and gifts to help replenish the lost funding. Hutchins said becoming a member is the best way to show support and contribute.
“Every dollar that comes from membership, that gift stays right here with WCTE,” Hutchins said. “When we look at what’s the best way to raise the quickest amount of money that sticks with the station, that would be membership support and private gifts.”
Hutchins said she understands that the public may have a difficult time understanding the local impacts right away. Hutchins said news of the cuts is still fresh, so there have not been any decisions on what cuts will be made in the future. In the meantime, Hutchins said the focus will be on spreading awareness and garnering public support.
“We’re trying to build a campaign that’s going to resonate with people,” Hutchins said. “And they will want to step up, and they will want to help us spread the word, help us increase revenue as far as memberships go. Help host, maybe private events that would raise awareness and maybe raise money for the station.”
Hutchins said the station will also host a few fundraisers this fall. The Day of Support will be in August, with another event in both September and October.