Mission & Vision
Our purpose
Public Media Network exists to make sure people in our community can see themselves, hear each other, and stay informed about what’s happening locally.
We do this by keeping local media open, accessible, and community-powered — so information isn’t controlled by a few companies or hidden behind paywalls.
Local media is part of our community’s civic infrastructure. Just like roads, libraries, and schools, it helps people connect, participate, and make informed decisions.
Media is for everyone. It’s not just for big companies or professionals. It’s for you, your neighbors, and the people you care about. Whether you’re sharing a story about your neighborhood, reporting on local events, or creating something fun and creative, media gives you the tools to make a difference.
At Public Media Network, we make it possible for anyone to tell their story. We provide the tools, training, and support so you can share what matters most to you and connect with others in meaningful ways.
Mission
We build community through media that informs, equips, and engages people to participate fully in their community.
What this means in everyday terms
Our mission guides everything we do.
It means we work to:
- Give people the tools to share stories that matter to their lives
- Make local information easy to find and access.
- Help neighbors understand what’s happening in their community
- Support voices that are often missing from mainstream media
We believe media works best when it is of the community, by the community, and for the community.
Vision
We envision an open and equitable media system that supports a vibrant, participatory civic culture where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential.
What we are working toward
Our vision is a community where:
- Local stories reflect the full diversity of people who live here
- Residents can easily watch public meetings and civic events
- People feel informed, included, and connected
- Media strengthens trust instead of dividing people
We imagine a future where local media helps people show up, speak up, and stay engaged.
Why this matters now
Media ownership has become more concentrated over time. That means fewer local voices and fewer stories that reflect real community life.
Public Media Network helps fill that gap by keeping media:
- Local – created with and for the community
- Independent – not driven by national agendas or algorithms
- Accessible – free to watch and open to participate
This work helps communities stay informed and connected, especially when it matters most.
How we live this out
We put our mission and vision into action by:
- Training people to create video, audio, and digital media
- Providing platforms for community voices and local organizations
- Covering public meetings so residents can stay informed
- Supporting youth, artists, and storytellers across the region
Every program we offer connects back to one goal: making local media a shared public resource.
Looking ahead
Our mission and vision guide long-term decisions about programs, partnerships, and funding.
As technology changes and media continues to shift, our commitment stays the same:
- Keep local stories visible
- Keep information open
- Keep media rooted in community needs
That’s what it means to treat media as civic infrastructure.
Be Part of the Network
Want to see this mission in action?
Explore our impact, watch local stories, or learn how to get involved.
Our Partner Communities
Our partner communities include: City of Kalamazoo, City of Parchment, Comstock Township, Kalamazoo Township, and Oshtemo Township.
Guidestar Platinum Seal of Transparency
Public Media Network has earned a 2024 Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid.
