KIYU Community Representation Statement

As a public radio station based in Galena, Alaska, KIYU is committed to serving the diverse and widespread communities of the Yukon-Koyukuk region and beyond. Our mission is to provide reliable, educational, and culturally enriching content to the rural and underserved populations of Interior Alaska. Through our programming and community partnerships, KIYU strives to reflect the unique voices, traditions, and perspectives of the region we proudly serve.

Commitment to Community Engagement

KIYU’s programming is deeply rooted in the values and traditions of the communities we serve. From Galena to the remote villages of the Yukon River, we work closely with local residents, tribal organizations, and community leaders to create content that is relevant, inclusive, and meaningful. Our station provides critical information, cultural preservation efforts, and a platform for local voices to be heard.

We are proud to act as a hub for communication and connection across the vast Yukon-Koyukuk region, ensuring that even the most remote communities have access to timely news, weather updates, and emergency information.

Equal Opportunity and Workforce Diversity

KIYU is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Our staff and volunteers bring a wide range of experiences and backgrounds to our work, enhancing our ability to serve the region’s unique populations. We participate in outreach efforts, including internships and training programs, to encourage more local residents to become involved in public media and to cultivate the next generation of media professionals.

Community Advisory Board

KIYU collaborates with a Community Advisory Board that reflects the diversity of the region, including members from various cultural, geographic, and demographic backgrounds. The board plays a vital role in advising the station on community priorities and ensuring that our programming aligns with the needs and interests of our listeners.

KIYU’s programming is designed to inform, educate, and celebrate the rich heritage of Interior Alaska. Key initiatives include:

  • Local News and Announcements: Reporting on issues that matter most to our communities, including subsistence hunting and fishing, education, and public health.
  • Elder Voices: A series of interviews with Alaska Native elders to preserve their wisdom, stories, and cultural knowledge for future generations.
  • Youth Radio: Programs produced by young people in our region, giving them a platform to share their perspectives and develop valuable media skills.
  • Cultural Features: Celebrating the traditions, music, and art of the Yukon-Koyukuk region with regular segments and community-driven content.

Recent Initiatives

In 2023 and 2024, KIYU has undertaken several initiatives to deepen our community impact:

  • Partnered with local schools to introduce radio production workshops for students, fostering youth engagement and skill development.
  • Increased the frequency of public service announcements on topics such as mental health, food security, and public safety.
  • Expanded cultural programming to include segments in Native languages, supporting language preservation efforts.
  • Strengthened our role as a reliable source for emergency broadcasts, providing critical updates during weather events and other crises.

Looking Ahead

KIYU remains committed to adapting and evolving to meet the changing needs of the Yukon-Koyukuk region. By engaging with our listeners, partnering with local organizations, and staying attuned to the cultural and informational needs of the community, we aim to continue being a trusted source of connection and enrichment for years to come.

This Community Representation Statement will be reviewed biennially to ensure it reflects the priorities and diversity of the communities we serve.

Big River Public Broadcasting’s Final Audited Financial Statements for 2023 are here.

Big River Public Broadcasting’s Station Activity Survey for 2023 is here.

FSR Report for 2022 is here. AFS Report for 2022 is here.

SAS Report for 2022

FSR Report for 2021

SAS Report for 2020

Fiscal Year 2019 Local Content and Service Report
FSR Report for 2020
SAS Report for 2020
Fiscal Year 2020 Financial Statement
Fiscal Year 2020 Profit & Loss
Big River Public Broadcasting Diversity Statement
Big River Broadcasting Public Meeting Information