Learn More About Our Cause
The past few years have ushered in a new and productive era for WSIE 88.7:
- In 2016, WSIE updated its format to include a rich blend of Jazz, Smooth Jazz, Blues and Easy R&B. Since then, our listening audience has more than tripled and continues to grow.
- We have added a library category that is specifically dedicated to putting a spotlight on the music of our regional artists.
- We have been invited to co-sponsor several locally produced Jazz festivals and we've had the wonderful opportunity to get back out in the community through various concerts, fairs and festivals.
- We have revamped our website to include regional artist bios, a calendar of upcoming Jazz-related events and an interactive blog, among other features.
- We have increased student involvement with WSIE by offering new and varying volunteer positions for SIUE students.
- We are the region's only remaining 24/7 FM radio station dedicated to playing, promoting and preserving Jazz and its companion genres. We are also one of only 16 remaining Smooth Jazz Billboard chart reporters in the United States.
- We had a very successful #saveWSIE campaign at the end of our 2019 - 2020 fiscal year, wiping out a near $100,000 loss for the year, which allowed WSIE to continue operations into the new fiscal year.
All in all, WSIE has enjoyed a steady, upward trajectory. But in 2018, we lost 100% of our state funding as a result of the Illinois budget impasse (2016 - 2018). We were charged to become entirely self-sufficient by increasing our underwriting income, applying for grants and encouraging our listeners to make tax-deductible donations in support of this wonderful station. The COVID-19 pandemic's economic impact also affected our financial outlook, as many of our underwriting partners were forced to reduce services or close entirely.
Thankfully, our #saveWSIE campaign was a huge success, thanks to the contributions from our loyal listeners, thanks to donations from Jazz fans around the globe and thanks to a very generous gift from the Kranzberg Arts Foundation. But that campaign only got us to the end of the fiscal year (June 30, 2020). Looking forward, we will be reliant on money from grants for which we may qualify, income from our underwriting partners and donations from you in order to keep this radio station moving forward.
So, we're asking you to consider making a tax-deductible donation, in any amount, to help us keep WSIE on the air. The best way you can help is with small, monthly recurring payments ($10, $20 or $25, for example). But a donation in any amount is definitely appreciated. Make your tax-deductible donation now at wsie.com/support.
Also, if you haven't done so yet, we encourage you to like and follow WSIE on Social Media. Please visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts and consider sharing our updates with your friends.
Lastly, if you've never listened to WSIE, or if it's been a while since you last tuned in, we invite you to experience "St. Louis' home for great Jazz, Smooth Jazz, Blues and Easy R&B" at 88.7 on your FM dial. If you do not live in the St. Louis region, we invite you to check out WSIE's great mix at wsie.com or on your smart device by downloading the free TuneIn app and searching for "WSIE." It is our hope that you will have found your new favorite radio station!
Thank you so much for your time and consideration. We appreciate any support that you can afford to give.
Jason Church
General Manager
WSIE 88.7 "The Sound"
Email: jaschur@siue.edu
