IMG’s journalism not only informs and engages local residents, but it also tells the stories of changemakers and leaders making things better in a neighborhood, city, or region. We measure our own impact by following up with our sources — the people in our communities doing the important work of change — to see what, if anything, happens as a result of their feature.
As we publish stories, we let our interview sources know that their story is now available to read and share. Thirty days later, we ask them to fill out a survey designed to measure its effects. We want to know if they saw an increase in their program participation, an uptick in volunteers, or more foot traffic or sales.
The results are pretty amazing: 80% of our impact surveys last year reported seeing a positive outcome after we help tell their story. An impressive 27% say they see an increased relationship with possible funders to support their work in the future.
Ultimately, these impacts are key to our work. IMG reporters are not merely witnessing change; they’re aiding and abetting it!
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