WMMT’s Community Correspondents Corps (CCC) is a project that brings listeners and community members into the process of radio production. As corporate consolidation and control of the media continues, the need for locally produced independent broadcasting is greater than ever. The CCC is founded upon a principle at the heart of Appalshop and WMMT’s work: that people have the right to control the development of their own communities through active participation in public dialogue and creative expression. Enacting the model of participatory community journalism, the CCC trains and supports people of all ages and backgrounds from throughout the region to produce their own radio pieces for the WMMT airways and the internet.

The CCC aims to create radio content that is particularly relevant to our communities in Central Appalachia, and that covers many topics from many perspectives. Community Correspondents are encouraged to produce work on the issues, ideas and events that matter the most to them. In this way the experiences and expertise of the correspondents informs the content that is produced. The CCC also encourages many different styles of radio production, and pieces can range from 3 to 30 minutes in length. CCC projects include (but are not limited to):

• Time sensitive reports on local and national news (covering community meetings, permit hearings, cultural events, changes in federal legislation, etc.)
• Investigative journalism on the issues impacting Appalachian communities (healthcare, environmental issues, elderly services, etc.)
• Explorations of regional history and cultural heritage
• Features showcasing the creative talents of the region (people reading aloud their written work, recording their music for the air, sharing their storytelling skills, creating sound art pieces, radio dramas, etc.)

WMMT staff work with correspondents to construct stories, plan and carry out the production, and get the piece to air. After being trained on our recording and editing equipment, CCC members have access to WMMT digital recorders and the WMMT production studio.

By relying on the wealth of local knowledge in our region, the CCC brings a real people perspective to what is broadcast-worthy in our communities. If you would like to be a part of the Community Correspondents Corps, contact Sylvia Ryerson at sylviar@appalshop.org or call 606-633-0108 during regular business hours.