88.5 WYSU-FM Launches Annual Fall Fundraiser
The Youngstown radio station is seeking community support following national funding cuts.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Philanthropy
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88.5 WYSU-FM has kicked off its annual fall fundraiser to bolster its operations after NPR faced funding cuts in 2025. The station is inviting Youngstown residents to contribute as it looks to match or exceed the $200,000 raised last year.
Why it matters
The initiative serves as a vital financial lifeline for the station, which must now rely more heavily on listener support to sustain its local programming and operations.
The station raised over $200,000 during its 2025 fundraiser. Listeners can call 330-941-3363 to contribute during this year's drive.
The players
WYSU-FM
This Youngstown-based radio station operates on the 88.5 frequency and provides public radio programming.
Morris Ray
He is the current Morning Edition host who has been with the station for five years following a 20-year tenure at 570 WKBN.
Mill Creek MetroParks
This regional park system is partnering with the radio station to provide trolley rides during the fundraising month.
The details
To engage the public, the station is distributing free wooden building blocks at local businesses including Westside Bowl, Culturehouse Coffee Co., Trek Coffee House, Branch Street Coffee Roasters, Birdfish Brewing Co., and Modern Methods Brewing Company. Participants who return decorated blocks are entered to win a model train set, and the station is partnering with Mill Creek MetroParks for trolley rides on October 24.
Timeline
The annual fall fundraiser is taking place throughout October 2026.
The station is hosting free trolley rides on October 24, 2026.
An on-air pledge drive is scheduled for the final week of October 2026.
Market Landscape
Local public media outlets are increasingly forced to pivot toward community-based fundraising models to offset the impact of the 2025 NPR funding cuts. This shift intensifies competition for regional donor dollars as stations strive to maintain autonomy and operational capacity.
Listeners can participate in the fundraiser by donating via phone or contributing to the town-building activity at participating local businesses. Engaging in these community events allows residents to directly assist in meeting the station's operational needs.
The takeaway
Community-driven events like the block-building activity help transform a standard fundraising appeal into an interactive local experience. Residents are encouraged to check the list of participating local businesses to engage with the campaign before the final pledge drive.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to support public broadcasting in the Youngstown Philanthropy section.
More information
To make a financial contribution, visit the WYSU online donation portal.
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Do you prioritize donating to local public radio stations in your community?
