One sign of a healthy community is the health of local journalism. In an age of 24/7 global news cycles and viral headlines, it can be easy to overlook the critical role local journalism plays in our daily lives. Local news outlets are the backbone of informed communities, covering the stories that directly impact us: school board decisions, city council meetings, local business developments and high school sports. This granular focus not only keeps citizens informed but also fosters community engagement and accountability. Local journalists are often the first to uncover stories that eventually gain national or global attention. Beyond breaking news, they document the everyday triumphs and challenges of the places we call home, preserving the history and culture of our communities. They’re also uniquely positioned to hold local governments and institutions accountable, ensuring transparency and giving a voice to those who might otherwise go unheard.
Despite their importance, local news organizations face unprecedented challenges. Declining advertising revenue, the rise of digital platforms, and newsroom closures have created “news deserts”—areas where residents lack access to reliable local reporting. This absence of trusted local information can leave communities vulnerable to misinformation and disengagement.
Efforts like Press Forward, a coalition dedicated to reinvigorating local journalism, are working to address this crisis. Through funding, resources, and innovative collaborations, Press Forward chapters work to sustain and grow local newsrooms across the country. Their mission is not just about saving newspapers or broadcast stations but about revitalizing civic engagement and empowering communities with the information they need to thrive.
When we support local journalism—by subscribing, donating, or advocating for sustainable funding—we’re investing in our own communities. The stories told by local journalists are the stories of our neighborhoods, our schools, and our lives. Their work ensures that our communities are not just seen but understood, fostering connection and resilience in a rapidly changing world.
Community foundations across the United States are actively collaborating with Press Forward chapters to bolster local journalism through several key initiatives:
Establishing Press Forward Local Chapters: Community foundations often serve as anchor partners in forming local or regional Press Forward chapters. These chapters unite local stakeholders, foundations, and donors to advocate for sustained investments in local news ecosystems. By leading these collaborations, community foundations help create a shared vision for the future of local journalism and mobilize resources to support it.
Securing Catalyst Funding: Once a local chapter is established, community foundations can apply for catalyst funding from the national Press Forward initiative. This funding is designed to support the operational needs of the local chapters, enabling them to conduct research, engage with community members, and develop strategies tailored to their specific news ecosystems. The amount of catalyst funding varies based on the scope of the chapter.
Arkansas Community Foundation was approved as a Press Forward Chapter in 2024. We are actively working on governance structure and developing a steering committee and media advisory committee.
So far, four funds have been established by the Community Foundation for the following local papers. Click below to donate.
- Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Community Journalism Project
- Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Community Journalism Project
- Arkansas Times Community Investigative Journalism Project
- Texarkana Gazette Community Journalism Project
Local journalism matters. It deserves our attention, our support and our gratitude.
For more information about Press Forward and Arkansas Community Foundation’s involvement in this nation-wide effort, please contact one of our staff members below:
