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14 Giving Guide 2017 Worcester Business Journal www.wbjournal.com Audio Journal Inc. Future Goals 1. To increase listenership among the nearly 5,000 legally blind residents of Central Massachusetts. 2. To better understand the needs of those we strive to serve by direct contact with individuals and blindness organizations. 3. To increase awareness among the general public as well as other disadvantaged populations who would benefit from our efforts. 4. To remove barriers to culture for visually impaired individuals through audio description, and by providing accessible formats such as Braille and audio platforms. 5. To grow our capacity to serve through technical upgrades and the use of new technologies. 6. To provide hands-on employment experience for individuals who are legally blind. 7. To continue to provide a rewarding and effective volunteer experience for over 170 people. Fundraising Events/Opportunities • Our first "Dining in the Dark"event – where diners experience a full meal while blindfolded – was a huge, fun success. Sponsorship and raffle items for this popular event are available. • Audio Journal's "Radio-Active Theatre" puts on a live "old-time radio" performance. Sponsorship, program ads, and silent auction item donations are available. • Audio Journal's 30th Anniversary gala will be held in early 2018. Sponsorship, advertising and auction items are available. Volunteer Opportunities • On-air readers bring current, local news to an appreciative audience. Training is provided and schedules are flexible. • Tech-savvy volunteers assist with production, hardware and software needs. • Board membership requires dedication and a clear understanding of our mission. The full board meets monthly for one hour, committees meet and communicate as needed to accomplish specific tasks. • All volunteers are encouraged to act as ambassadors and advocates, addressing educational opportunities and legislative issues. Giving Opportunities • Direct appeals to individuals and businesses will occur each Fall and Spring. • Our "Text-A-Thon" gives many friends the opportunity to make a big difference with small donations. • Any in-kind donation that specifically aids awareness of Audio Journal is greatly appreciated. Edward J. Connor, Jr. Voya Financial/ Archstone Financial Vincent dePaul Lombardi Executive Director 799 West Boylston Street Worcester, MA 01606 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED THE TALKING INFORMATION CENTER'S HELPING BLIND PEOPLE HELP THEMSELVES! Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Worcester, MA Permit #1055 MISSION STATEMENT Service area: Audio Journal serves all of Central Massachusetts with our broadcast and affiliated services, and can also be heard nationally and worldwide on-line at www.audiojournal.net To inform and empower people who are visually impaired, or for any other reason, face barriers to accessing information, culture, or employment opportunities. The Memorial Foundation for the Blind ....................... 39% Local Foundations ......... 12% Events ........................... 10% Top funding sources: Maribeth Fisher, Seven Hills ASPiRE! Alise M. Karle, Millbury Federal Credit Union, Vice-President Arthur Lindberg, New England Low Vision, Treasurer James M. Meola, Worcester Bravehearts James J. Monette, Assumption College Liz Myska, Attorney-at-Law Jack Peacock, COMMplements, Secretary Catherine Thornton, Uxbridge Lions Caroline J. Toomey-Gitto, MCPHS Audio Journal Inc. 799 West Boylston Street Worcester, MA 01606 Phone: 508-797-1117 www.audiojournal.net Full-time employees: 3 Annual revenues: $258,455 Year founded: 1987 "Just the thought of living without vision is daunting to most of us. Audio Journal's efforts serve those who are determined to face their challenges in a direct, positive way. It is an honor to provide a helping hand. It speaks well of our neighbors and makes the community a better place." – Edward J. Connor, Jr., Board President Board of Directors