Annual Report 2007

2007 was a year of great achievements and transitions for KAFM. It was a year when two of our longtime leaders moved on to life's next adventures.  As the beneficiaries of their mentorship and vision, we would be remiss if we did not take a moment to thank these two  great leaders.  
  
Peter Trosclair and Julia Hall exhibited an unmatched dedication and wisdom over the last decade that laid a strong foundation for the new era of our station.  With the combined help of an incredible staff, Board of Directors and volunteers, I am happy to report that the state of our station is strong.
  
I hope you'll take a moment to see just what we are accomplishing together.  From an enhanced internet presence, to solar power, more consistent programming, real estate assets and greater volunteerism than ever before, the station has made a place for itself in the hearts of the community it serves, and indeed, now has supporters all over the world.  
  
I am honored to have the chance to help realize the dreams and visions of so many who give so much to this hometown success story and I am always open to hear your thoughts and ideas.

Ryan Stringfellow
Executive Director
KAFM 88.1 Community Radio

Volunteerism
In 2007, 206 volunteers contributed over 15,000 hours to the station's projects and to our community.  That's $270,000 of in-kind support and places KAFM at, or near the top, of volunteer organizations in the Grand Valley.

Local Partnerships
Enhanced Web Presence: In 2007, KAFM partnered with a local firm, DesignKiln, to upgrade and totally redesign our web operations, which has become an integral part of the station's business plan.  People all over the world now listen to and support KAFM on www.kafmradio.org.

Solar powered Community Radio: Late in 2007, KAFM began investigating the potential of going solar.  Early in 2008, the station entered into a partnership with High Noon Solar.  As of April, 2008, the station's broadcasts and events in the Radio Room are powered by solar energy.

Diversity and Inclusiveness
Members and volunteers: KAFM strives constantly for diversity and inclusivity in all areas.  Our volunteers and members come from every part of our community -- young and old, men, women and children of every description.  All are welcome and every voice matters.

Funding
KAFM funds its operations from the support of approximately 1000 members, and 120 Underwriters who represent the business community and nonprofit organizations.  Additional support comes from a number of grants and support from foundations.  2007 marked the first year when KAFM achieved eligibility and received funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. ­ a major achievement for a station of our size.

Looking to the Future
Current projects such as the Radio Room Concerts, the Beyond Radio Presentations, as well as enhanced web and internet presences, are growing and thriving alongside new broadcast directions.  
 
Community service programming such as the Kitchen Sink and a strong daily public affairs line-up are taking their place next to the music programming.
 
In the coming years, we believe we will look back to these projects as prototypes of what the station will be doing.  Of course, one thing will remain constant and that is our commitment to the community.  Indeed, we believe that an increased focus on local affairs, local programming and local music will be crucial to keeping us a strong resource for our community.  That, in turn, should help us continue to prosper and grow.
  
So the little station that began as the dream of a few visionary citizens in 1992 has become a treasured resource for the community it serves.  All of us who work and volunteer at KAFM are honored to carry that vision forward.  

KAFM BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2007

Barry Barak
President

Jen Taylor
Vice-President

Bruce Bonar
Secretary

John Anglim
Diane Dinnell
Gretchen Reist Henderson
Sarah Marshall
Craig Roberts
Angie Salazar