KUOW raises $1.1 million in fall pledge-fest

So thou sayest/corrections dep't:  KUOW's Jeff Hansen writes,
Two corrections: "The goal from the start was $1.1 million. Also, listening goes down during a pledge drive. This is well established. Also in answer to the comment, the hourly goals are used to help us get to the larger goal, and we say that often during the drive."

We heard they were shootin' for more like $1.5, but public radio news talk KUOW raised 1.1 million bucks after withholding content for just eleven days. That didn't happen, what with the economy, and all. It was a spirited drive, seemed more organized and scripted than usual with less of the caffeinated, punchy winging-it by staffers. That's a good thing, of course.

A fundraiser pro who should know, told us that ratings actually go up during pledge drives. That's counter-intuitive since we always head for KPLU. (whose news room is arguably the best in the market). Maybe listeners love all that caffeinated, punchy winging-it. There is breathtaking drama as goals are reached (or not); there's a sense of community that's usually missing in the generally stodgy NPR atmospherics. You get to hear the talent and staffers (even Arvid) being light, funny, maybe silly, even.

We, for one, are glad it's over, but we heart the public radio "business" model which affords listeners the luxury of having radio where an hour's listening means an hour of content. (as opposed to the commercial news talk standard of18-21 minutes of content, the rest filled with up-volume ad spots for prostate health and mattresses).

Comments

[AuthenticAndrew]

It's kind of insulting how they claim they need to make $4,500 within the next twenty minutes when in reality they mean "we need to reach 1.5 million by Friday." I honestly don't know if the target is $500k or 5 million but obviously they don't specifically need $4,500 in the next twenty minutes. Seattle is one of the smarter cities per capita, I don't think that's a good maneuver to use around here. I feel more bad for them knowing they didn't reach 1.5mil, but I don't give two shits if they don't make some imaginary amount by some deadline they made up. I'll donate some money next week just to make sure it's well clear of the idiotic and insulting pledge drive.

[Jeff Hansen]

Two corrections: The goal from the start was $1.1 million. Also, listening goes down during a pledge drive. This is well established. Also in answer to the comment, the hourly goals are used to help us get to the larger goal, and we say that often during the drive - Jeff Hansen

[AuthenticAndrew]

Wow, taking it to the people. Thanks for the response. I'll make good on that threat to pledge.