The Value of Local News
Local news is the heartbeat of the community, connecting residents with the news that truly matters. These stories shape lives by covering schools, neighborhood initiatives, community events, and more. Local news promotes a sense of belonging and encourages and empowers residents to engage in their communities.
What's at Stake?
The loss of local news threatens the very foundation of our communities. Without trusted journalism, accountability falters, leaving local governments, businesses, and institutions unchecked. Newsrooms with fewer resources struggle to report on the issues that connect neighbors and shape daily life, from school board decisions to local economies. Communities risk losing their sense of connection, as younger generations disengage, and news fails to meet people where they are with accessible, digital options. Local news does not just inform—it binds communities, fosters civic engagement, and ensures we remain connected to each other and the issues that matter.
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of all publicly available information on community-specific issues comes from local newspapers.
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of people with access to local news are more likely to vote, volunteer, and engage in their communities.
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higher government borrowing costs occur in communities without local newspapers, increasing taxpayer expenses.
How We're Changing the Story
Readers have told us what they need: accessible, trustworthy news that meets them where they are—online, in their inboxes, and on their devices. Local news organizations across Virginia are ready to deliver, but they face challenges like shrinking resources, fewer journalists, and limited digital reach. The Virginia Local News Project is uniquely equipped to bridge this gap. By providing tools, training, and statewide collaboration, we’re creating pathways that bring readers and local news together, ensuring a vibrant, informed community for generations to come.
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