The Story of Community Media in the Central States

For more than four decades, community media centers across the Central States region have opened the doors for neighbors, nonprofits, and local voices to create and share their own stories. From small towns to large cities, these centers provide the training, tools, and platforms that empower people to be more than just consumers of media—they become content creators, storytellers, and community leaders.

Across Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, and Ohio, community media is helping people engage with local government, strengthen civic participation, and gain media literacy skills that last a lifetime. Media education programs introduce youth and adults alike to the power of storytelling, while civic coverage keeps residents informed and connected.

The Central States Region of the Alliance for Community Media links these centers together to share resources, support one another, and amplify diverse voices that too often go unheard. When you connect with us, you’re stepping into a network that believes media belongs to the people, and that every story has the power to strengthen our communities.

2025 Community Media Fest

hosted by the Central States Region of the Alliance for Community Media