Hi Friend, I wanted to make sure you saw the note from Jon McTaggart, CEO of Minnesota Public Radio, that he shared yesterday about the grave financial realities for MPR in the face of this global pandemic. Audiences are turning to MPR in record numbers, resulting in unanticipated but unavoidable expenses. At the same time, key revenue streams have been severely reduced — a shortfall that puts our public service at risk. MPR must be adequately resourced to continue to provide the programming you need to navigate the pandemic, economic downturn and the coming election. That means that MPR relies on you, Friend. One of our core beliefs at Minnesota Public Radio is that programming should be freely accessible to all — anytime, anywhere. We are an independent, non-profit organization. That means we are funded by the people and powered by our listeners. Your gift matters now more than ever to keep what you love and rely on most with MPR on the air and online. In these uncertain and confusing times, our independence is more critical than ever. We need our audiences to show their support for the radio they trust. Please make an urgently needed gift to support the music and news you rely on. Thank you for your support, Lindsay Kimball Director of Membership
----------Original Message--------- From: Jon McTaggart, Minnesota Public Radio Date: April 16, 2020 at 11:46:36 AM CST To: Lindsay Kimball, Minnesota Public Radio Subject: Important update from Minnesota Public Radio
Hi Friend, The global pandemic has created serious economic headwinds for us and this is the biggest financial test we’ve ever faced. The curious people we serve need our distinctive and trusted programming more than ever, and we know this is true because a record number of Minnesotans are listening to and relying on MPR during these uncertain and unsettling times. MPR is important to you. So, we are asking you to help us protect and strengthen the MPR programs you value most. We’re evaluating a wide range of changes to cut expenses, and we’ve already reduced executive compensation. We’re taking great care with any changes to our programming and any decisions that affect the lives and livelihoods of our talented and dedicated employees. We’re looking at every compassionate way to adjust our expenses to the new revenue realities that we, and so many others, are facing. Individual donors have always been our most important and dependable source of support, and that is why MPR is fundamentally strong. But we are not immune to the current financial challenges. Your donation right now makes a big difference in our ability to provide essential public services to you and to all Minnesotans. As the only statewide network, more than a million Minnesotans depend on MPR for trusted, fact-based journalism, joyful and calming music, compelling cultural programming, and companionship during a time of isolation. Your urgently needed gift today directly supports the programming that you love and value. Minnesota Public Radio is here for you, and we’re asking you to be here for us. Give generously today and know you are making a huge difference. Every listener, member and donor can be part of our vital public service in new and bold ways, and we can meet this challenge together. We are so grateful.
