originally published: 08/16/2023

(CAMDEN, NJ) -- IDEA Center for the Arts in downtown Camden has received a major grant from the Independence Public Media Foundation to develop an integrated, robust media communications program – podcasts, radio broadcasts, and zines – of positive news affecting the Camden community. The program will also teach youth journalistic and production skills for careers in the Creative Economy.

The pilot program will launch in October 2023 with the training and preparation of a monthly podcast developed by experienced video/film production and journalism professionals, supported by youth interested in media and journalism careers. The podcast will be followed by periodic news zines and possible segments in local broadcast and print media outlets. Content will focus on the great stories coming out of Camden and include topics such as the impact of the arts, education initiatives, nonprofits doing good, successful residents and entrepreneurs, social justice issues, local celebrities, political actions and specific news from Camden County.

“This is a program we have been thinking about for a long time and we thank Independent Public Media for funding it,” said Cynthia Primas, IDEA’s Executive Director. “We will work with partners such as Rutgers University, Radio 1, Anointed News and other news outlets to make this program the best it can be for the Camden community,” she continued.

IDEA has been offering year-round, arts’-based learning programs in Camden for over 25 years including Visual, Performing Arts, Media Arts & Technology and Music, and understands the importance of the arts to community cohesion and health and wellbeing.

IDEA recently launched an integrated, end-to-end paradigm that includes arts-based learning, workforce development and a creative cooperative to prepare youth for fulfilling, well-paying careers in the Creative Economy. IDEA also offers arts events throughout the year - like the Johnson Park Music and Arts Festival – to bring the inspiring power of the arts to the whole community.

Formerly known as WYBE Channel 35, Independence Public Media Foundation was founded in 2018 when WYBE sold its broadcast license as part of the Federal Communications Commission’s Broadcast Incentive Auction and received a one-time payment of $131.5 million. With these funds, IPMF supports Black-led, Indigenous-led, and people-of-color led media organizations and media making projects that help communities build their narrative power for equity and justice.

IDEA Center for the Arts has been providing arts-based learning programs to the underserved youth of Camden for over 16 years. IDEA connects youth and their families to the life-affirming quality of the arts and builds socially vibrant communities by strengthening human potential through creativity, culture and arts-based learning. We also seek to build economic empowerment through training and supporting regional youth with employment training and entrepreneurship.