The need for high-quality, fact-based journalism in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest has never been greater.
During his 18-year tenure, Steve Bass led OPB through a period of significant media industry change, and expanded our service as a trusted news source to audiences in the region.
OPB
In 2021, OPB established the Impact Journalism Fund to directly support new reporting in areas of critical need. As Steve Bass steps away from OPB later in 2024, we recognize his extraordinary efforts to expand OPB’s original journalism by naming the fund in his honor.
With a goal to raise $2 million in new contributions, we see this fund as a critical dividend – putting Steve’s successor in position to meet this essential public need.
Take Action: Support OPB’s public service journalism now
Your support for the fund will help connect more people with trustworthy reporting, wherever they like – via broadcasts, website, podcasts, editorial partners, and much more.
“— Rachel Smolkin, OPB President and CEOOPB is essential to the media ecosystem of our region. I’m committed to continuing this legacy by safeguarding and strengthening our journalism at this critical moment.”
Potential areas of future coverage through the Impact Journalism Fund include:
Housing, homelessness and poverty
Reporting that helps OPB more deeply cover the housing crisis as a regional issue. Our reporting would provide more insight into local struggles about how to handle rising homelessness, poverty, and the broader trends and policies that led to rising prices and diminished housing stock.
Southwest Washington
Expanded coverage of southwest Washington with the addition of a new correspondent focused on the city of Vancouver.
Transportation and public infrastructure
A focus on the future of transportation and planning in Oregon and southwest Washington, through the lens of how transit, commuting patterns and development play a role in fighting climate change.
New collaboration with regional news organizations
Strengthened, high-quality reporting from news organizations across our region through collaborative partnerships with The Bend Bulletin, Blue Mountain Eagle, The Daily Astorian, Jefferson Public Radio, and others.
OPB’s First Amendment Fund
Support for the ongoing and extraordinary work of OPB’s legal team as they file and appeal Freedom of Information Act requests, review stories prior to publication, and pursue litigation related to our public service mission.
Expanding our reporting to better serve the entire public
The Steven M. Bass Impact Journalism Fund directly supports OPB’s vision: Trusted journalism, accessible to all – enriching lives and strengthening communities.
Your support for the fund ensures that our journalism is available free of charge for every single person in our region – never hidden behind a paywall.
“— Sandy Rowe, Pulitzer Prize winner, former editor, The Oregonian, and member of OPB Board of DirectorsWe must have fact-based journalism in order for democracy to thrive, especially today.”
Take Action: Support OPB’s public service journalism now
Contact Us
For more information on how you can support the Steven M. Bass Impact Journalism Fund, contact:
Cheryl Ikemiya
VP and Chief Development Officer
cikemiya@opb.org | 503-293-4162
Jordan Anderson
Director, Grants & Strategic Initiatives
janderson@opb.org | 503-445-1858