News and Press
WPKN in The Great Give 2025, Regional Nonprofit Fundraiser, May 7th and 8th
The Great Give is a fundraising event led by the Community Foundation for Greater New Haven taking place Wednesday, May 7th, and Thursday, May 8th. Now in its 16th year the Great Give raises over $3.5 million for over 550 local nonprofits.
This year WPKN is one of those non-profits aiming to attract new donors and tap into over $200K in matching funds in support of independent, freeform, noncommercial, community radio.
Since its inception in 1963, and non-profit independent filing in 1989, WPKN has always been a community organization that amplifies tri-state area nonprofit organizations, businesses, events, artists, musicians, organizers, and more. WPKN allows volunteers interested in broadcast radio, podcasting, video, and community outreach, to explore and build on their creative interests for free, with all levels of backgrounds and training accepted.
Visit thegreatgive.org on May 7th and 8th to make a contribution to WPKN.
WPKN’s Music Mash 2025 Benefit Record Fair Delights 500+ Diggers
WPKN's annual Music Mash benefit record fair entered a transformational year in its relocation to Foolproof Brewing (800 Union Ave. Bridgeport), with over 500+ music aficionados, Connecticut scenemakers, and families in attendance, digging through 50+ dealers classic and rare records. Foolproof Brewing allowed for attendees to enjoy the venue's unique Bridgeport brews, food, WPKN DJs spinning vinyl, local musicians performing short sets, and more. The event was organized by WPKN's Herman Olivera (ReHumanize Yourself Radio) and partnering organziation Record Riots with John Bastone. Bob Carmona and Kenn Greenquist (Dawn Patrol, Incunabula) directing volunteer efforts.
WPKN Debuts New Free Listening Apps and Website
WPKN has debuted two new free listening apps available on the Apple and Android platforms. A major upgrade for WPKN’s global audience, the new WPKN apps allow listeners to tune into WPKN’s new upgraded stream which boasts an SSL (secure socket layer), unlimited capacity, and higher bitrate (read: audio quality).
The WPKN app features quick links to podcasts, archives, social media channels, and a donation page. Song History features 25+ real-time recently played tracks. The app is fully integrated with Apple Carplay and many car interfaces.
Citing a commitment to improved digital infrastructure to better serve WPKN communities, WPKN has simultaneously launched a new website. The website was designed by volunteer, UX/Web developer, Meg Griffin, with direction from Brendan Toller, Director of Operations and New Initiatives, and Anne-Marie Ryzak, Office Manager. The new WPKN website was designed to provide a clear, concise, organized web presence optimized by web analytics, with a focus on improved mobile experience. The site was also built with future expansion and re-branding in mind.