Campus radio station CFRC 101.9 FM, Kingston’s only campus-community radio broadcaster, is working with members of the Kingston community to create audio stories about their experiences of poverty. The project, called “Below the Line,” aims to raise awareness about the challenges and struggles of living with poverty.
“While there are significant social problems related to poverty in the Kingston area, these problems are often hidden from public view and left unexplored in the media,” says Kristiana Clemens, the station’s operations officer. “By encouraging people to share their experiences of poverty with an audience, it is hoped that “Below the Line” will raise awareness about poverty in the Kingston area and facilitate discussion and dialogue on this important issue.”
During August and September twelve volunteers will complete their audio documentaries. Finished productions will be broadcast on CFRC 101.9fm, shared with other non-profit community radio stations and installed for listening at The Artel Arts Accommodation and Venue downtown as part of the Poverty Conference 2010 in October.
“As the only community-access, volunteer-based radio station in Kingston, CFRC has a unique role and responsibility to act as a source of local information and perspectives not covered in other media,” says Ms Clemens.
Participants in “Below the Line” will receive a $250 honorarium for completing an audio documentary. In addition they will gain free training in digital recording, multitrack editing, microphone technique, narration and scriptwriting. They will also enjoy free access to portable recorders and digital audio studios as well as free transportation and food for workshops.
For more information on the project visit this CFRC website post.
