Puffin West has provided OSU’s Youth Beat Radio with another third grant. The show features activities, perspectives, and contributions of youths aged 14-21 but also includes content from community leaders of all ages. Youth Beat is a weekly radio show that airs on Columbus Community radio station WCRS 98.3/102.1FM. The goals of the show are to: 1) inform others about youth activities to improve schools, neighborhoods, communities and the environment; 2) Address issues of interest to your; 3) Teach other youth how to get involved in their schools, neighborhoods and communities; 4) Provide adults with ideas on the ways they can help youth get involved; 5) Find creative solution to challenging problems; and 6) Inspire everyone to take a greater interest in their communities a difference. The show is under the direction of Kristi Lekies, Ph.D., Associate Professor in the School of Environment and Natural Resources at the Ohio State University. The show is produced by youth from Central Ohio high schools, universities, and local organizations. To date several hundred youth have been interviewed for the show, contributed content, attended radio production training, or produced or hosted shows. Youth Beat gives students the opportunity to learn about community radio; learn technical skills such as editing and how to use equipment and software; practice interviewing skills that engage them in community and societal issues; and learn other important life and workforce skills.
