Audio-Reader: 45 Years of Service

This campaign has concluded, but if you would like to still make a gift to support Audio Reader, please click here.

Since October 11, 1971, Audio-Reader has provided access to information for people who have difficulty reading standard print due to vision loss, physical or learning disability, mobility challenges, and age. At the heart of it, Audio-Reader fosters independence by connecting thousands of listeners across Kansas, Missouri and beyond with their community through daily broadcasts and recordings of local and regional newspapers, magazines, books and more. Listeners can access services through a closed-circuit radio, over the telephone, on the internet and the iBlink app. Audio-Reader also provides audio description services so that blind and visually impaired patrons can fully experience theater and the arts. With a team of 400 volunteers, our services are available for free 24/7, 365 days of the year.

It is amazing to see how far Audio-Reader has come since that October day 45 years ago, but there is still work to be done. In the past few months, Audio-Reader has received nearly $125,000 in budget cuts due to State of Kansas shortfalls resulting in budget cuts for the University of Kansas. This budget cut is significant. Now more than ever, Audio-Reader counts on support from friends like you to continue providing the services our listeners have come to depend on, for free. Your gift directly impacts the lives of listeners, such as:

Will Hawkins, Financial Advisor/Business Owner

“Audio-Reader helps me in my job as a certified financial planner. I plan my day around the Audio-Reader broadcast so that I can get news and be informed when I meet with clients.” 

Kimberly Morrow, PhD, Communications Coordinator

“As a communications coordinator, it is imperative that I keep abreast of what is going on in the world.  Audio Reader allows me to be just as informed as my sighted counterparts.”

DuYahn Walker, Radio Professional

“Audio-Reader provides the blind community with news, information about resources, and entertainment. To have a friend, even through the radio, is something special. It’s the best resource in my life!”

Join us in celebrating Audio-Reader’s 45 years of service, and committing to the next 45 years. During this birthday campaign, Audio-Reader is honored to have a generous donor who will match every gift, dollar for dollar, up to $2,250, so that we can reach our goal of $4,500. Gifts of all sizes make a BIG difference – with this match, your gift has twice the impact in the lives of our listeners. Help us reach $4,500 to honor our 45 years!