Audio Journal is a radio-reading service for blind and print-disabled people in Central Massachusetts. Our mission is to provide current,local printed information for those who are unable to see or hold printed materials.

Description:
Audio Journal is a "window to the world" combating the isolation that so often results from a disability. The potential of our listenership to lead an independent and productive life is heightened by providing direct, immediate and convenient access to the information necessary in everyday life. Over 150 volunteer readers keep listeners informed and involved in their community as well as the world around them. Access is available 24 hours a day seven days a week.

History:
Audio Journal was founded in September of 1987 with one part-time Director. The service went on the air in November of 1987 in an unused closet in the Worcester Public Library. Audio Journal provided 5 hours of local programming each week with only 5 volunteers and 300 listeners. One year later the Audio Journal moved into a small booth in local NPR station (WICN 90.5 FM) with a desk provided by the Director. At the time the service produced 20 hours of local programming each week with the help of over 60 volunteers. It's listenership had expanded 300% with around 900 listeners.

In 1990, Audio Journal once again outgrew it quarters and filled an office suite at 172 Lincoln Street, with two small broadcast studios, two offices, and a small conference room. Unfortunately the site was inaccessible, and not ideally laid out.

As of April 2003, Audio Journal now occupies just over 1400 square ft. of space at 799 West Boylston Street in Worcester. The new quarters were designed from scratch to accommodate a variety of broadcast activities, and is totally accessible. Now ALL people can volunteer and participate in the many wonderful programs that Audio Journal produces.

Listenership continues to climb with nearly 5,000 listeners throughout Worcester County. Since the service began at the end of 1987, close to 4,000 specially tuned radio receivers have been distributed. People in nearly 28 communities are now able to access Audio Journal on public access cable television.

We rely on volunteers to help out in most aspects of the organization; delivering receivers, speaking to groups, serving on various committees, temporary office assistance -- and, of course, broadcasting. Volunteers receive full training and the opportunity to provide the community with a valuable, challenging, fun and rewarding service.

Contact person: Vincent Lombardi, Director, (508) 797-1117, (email)
Office fax number: 508-757-4074

Address:

799 West Boylston Street Worcester, MA 01606 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.audiojournal.net

Directions:

FROM THE EAST: Mass Pike (90 West) to 495 North to 290 West to 190 North. Exit 1 off 190, follw past Greendale Mall, continue on West Boylston Street approximately 2 miles, to 799 West Boylston St. (Low brick building, just before. . . (more)   Nearest Bus Stop: 30 from City Hall, 1 minute walk

Miscellaneous Information

Are any opportunities appropriate for youth ages 18 or under? If yes, what age range?
	Yes. Middle school and high school students may be appropriate for some program reading or acting.