This fall's CHIRP fundraising drive is our last one before we celebrate 10 years of streaming at chirpradio.org. We had already been an organization for a few years when the decision was made to put some of our fundraising to use to create an internet radio station, figuring it would give us a leg up if Congress every passed the Low Power FM Act. We first had to find a location, which took some doing, and we wound up in the former photo album factory where we have been ever since. Then volunteers put up drywall and did all of the other things needed to get our master and production studios together. We finally went live on January 17, 2009. 

And here we are today, programming live at least 18 hours every day, playing indie and underappreciated music, along with more local music than any other station around -- and we're talking Chicago, the greatest music city in the world! We provide a chance for people who have never done radio before to volunteer. I just finiished up training a new DJ who is going to be great, and I'm excited for her to get on the air soon. 

Your donation is what allows her to get on the air. Because we have lots of costs to keep this thing going, from the transmitter, to the stream, to rent, and other things, including salaries for a general manager and a development director. And CHIRP is economical, as the vast majority of the work is done by 200+ volunteers who make our shows and promotions and podcasts and events and tech and etc. work so well. 

Once again,, my goal is $1600 (after reaching my earlier $1000, then $1500, goals) but reaching 50 donors, at least, is even more important to me, because it's great to get as many people I know to provide support for something that is very important to me. And while I welcome big donations, $10 would also be great, because every little bit helps.If you donate $10, I'll dedicate a cool cover to you on one of my shows. Donate $30 or more, and I'll send you a musical surprise (and play one of those covers for you). And we have cool promotional items for donations of $60, $120, and $240 (but you should go to chirpradio.org/donatenow if you want that swag).

Support CHIRP for Ten Years of Great Independent Radio Programming! Make a "Sound Investment" in the station's future today!

CHIRP is a a listener-supported, volunteer-driven station. You make everything we do possible, whether it's supporting local artists, introducing you to tons of new music, throwing great events, or providing an outlet for your favorite DJ. As we celebate our tenth anniversary as a station, please help ensure we begin our second decade on strong financial footing!

In this era, it's more important than ever to support independent media. No commercials. No voice-tracking. No algorithms. Just great music brought to you by true music fans.

If you would like to become a sustaining member by making a recurring donation (monthly or quarterly), or if you want to select a thank you gift, please visit CHIRP's main donation page to make your contribution (and don’t forget to enter the name of the CHIRP Volunteer or DJ in the “How did you hear about CHIRP” section so they can receive credit for your gift).