Become a Member

Why join WRFU

When you join WRFU, you join a community. As a community radio station, WRFU members decide what to play and when to play it. Whether you're a longtime member or newcomer, every member has an equal voice in how the station is run. Members get to host their own radio shows. And if you've never been on the radio before, we'll train you on everything you need to know about FCC requirements and station equipment. WRFU membership also includes a membership to the Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center (IMC), giving you access to audio/video equipment and editing software, a recording studio, discounted rental fees for venues and instant access to dozens of media and social justice projects happening right now at the IMC. If you'd like a tour of the radio station, stop by the station, located in the historic post office of downtown Urbana and take a look around. Our open hours are Monday through Friday, 10am-6pm.

Membership Obligations

  • Pay membership dues: Community radio relies heavily on membership dues to support itself. Annual membership for an individual is $75, and $150 for an organization. Payment can be made in person for the full amount at the IMC or in installments via our online payment system. Be mindful that in order to use our online system, you need to register with the IMC website ahead of time.

  • Attend meetings: Active membership is crucial to the success of WRFU. We have two meetings each month, on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 8-9pm inside the IMC. At these meetings WRFU makes all its big decisions about programming, finances, outreach and station policy. Members need to attend at least one of the two meetings each month to stay updated on WRFU policy and of course, to affect it as well.
  • Join the mailing list: The online mailing list is the place for all communication that occurs for WRFU. This low traffic email list is the place to report technical problems you notice in the station, and discuss ideas before bringing a proposal to a meeting. Feel free to introduce yourself to the list when you join. We love new people.

And in general, be active about taking care of your station!

Getting a show:

Space providing, anyone can get on the air at WRFU. In addition to becoming a member, there are several requirements for getting on air. You must:

When you propose your show at the meeting, it's helpful to already have a time slot picked out. Show can be no longer than two hours. Contact WRFU to schedule a training session.

Syndicated Public Affairs

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