January 15, 2009 | Read Time: 1 minute
For many Americans, turning on the morning news might mean avoiding traffic delays or knowing about the stock market’s most-recent tumble. But in parts of the world fraught by conflict or natural disasters, news reports can literally save lives.
Since 1982, the charity Internews Network has sought to bring critical news and information to poor people around the world by supporting local journalists. Reporters trained by the group have prompted people to seek treatment at health clinics, raised awareness about rapes taking place outside refugee camps, and dispelled myths among earthquake victims that kerosene could stave off mosquitos.
“In the places where we work, the power of media is so great,” says Jeanne M. Bourgault, chief operating officer, “and no other force in society has the capacity to reach so many people so quickly and so effectively.”
Based in Arcata, Calif., Internews has offices in 35 countries.
The organization has trained more than 70,000 people, many of whom have overcome significant hurdles to become journalists.
Al Haram Oumar (shown here) helped establish the charity’s radio station in Iriba, Chad, a place where women are rarely given positions of authority. Hers was the first local female voice ever broadcast in the town.
To do its work, Internews raises about $29-million each year from foundations, individuals, governments, and other donors.
“We’re seeing more and more funders, private and government, recognizing the power of media to help achieve other development objectives they may have,” says Ms. Bourgault.
She adds: “If you can get the local media right, you will have a deeper and more lasting impact.”
