If creating the sustainable new business model for journalism were easy, someone, somewhere would've nailed it by now. It turns out that no one has aced it — yet. But Crosscut Public Media strikes me as one of the organizations most likely to make it work in the long term here in the Pacific Northwest.
Working with the organization since 2009, and seeing energy and momentum welling anew with a new publisher, it seems to me that Crosscut's most exciting work is still ahead. That's why I support the organization as a member in addition to contributing as a writer.
That's also why I hope you'll join in fueling Crosscut's future.
While society and the world shift in vast, consequential ways, journalism’s vital importance in informing, engaging and advancing our communities doesn't change. The old ways that great journalism happens, connects, and contributes to democracy are, however, in dizzying flux — everywhere. New media like Crosscut succeed sometimes and are left striving at times, but their constant tackling of the challenge is essential.
Crosscut 3.0, if you will, promises to take things further and explore new ground. For Crosscut writers, this is immensely exciting. Finding ways to incorporate new forms, talent, and tools will play a part. Making our work relevant to a larger audience, connecting with an ever broader community, finding the stories that are both important and untold, will prove equally important.
So, during this season of non-profit pledging, and as Crosscut transforms itself into version 3.0, I hope you'll join in the journey and do two things: One, renew your own membership — and kick it up a level, and two, ask a friend, neighbor or colleague to join you and become a member. Let's see where we can take this thing, together.
Like what you just read? Start or renew your Crosscut membership online today.
