Martha's Vineyard Community Radio

Martha's Vineyard Community Radio, EIN: 43502710, operates as a nonprofit organization providing community-based radio services. The organization is located on Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, and aims to offer an eclectic mix of programming, fostering local engagement and accessibility for community members.

The idea for a community radio station on Martha's Vineyard dates back to around 2000, when a group known as "Free Radio Martha's Vineyard" attempted to establish an alternative to commercial radio. However, their early efforts were halted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) due to signal interference with local airport communications. Undeterred, community members continued to pursue the creation of a community-oriented radio station.

In 2007, the group finally secured an FCC license to operate on the frequency 93.7 FM under the call letters WVVY. This achievement allowed them to establish a legitimate community radio presence, committed to showcasing local talent and broadcasting a diverse range of music, including soundtracks, show tunes, and historical series on the roots of rock music. The station also features local music programming daily.

One of the key missions of Martha's Vineyard Community Radio is to provide a platform where community members can engage with radio broadcasting, whether through hosting shows or sharing local perspectives. This inclusivity differentiates it from other local stations like WMVY and WCAI, which do not offer similar access to community members interested in hosting their own programs.

Despite financial challenges, the community rallied around the project, with local businesses and individuals supporting the station's launch through donations and fundraising efforts. This collective support enabled the station to go live in 2007, marking a significant milestone for community-driven media on the island.

Today, Martha's Vineyard Community Radio continues to operate with a focus on community engagement and diverse programming, reflecting the eclectic tastes and cultural fabric of Martha's Vineyard. The station celebrates local talent and provides a unique outlet for voices and stories from the island community.

[1] https://noncommusic.org/stories/mvy-broke-the-mold/ [2] https://vineyardgazette.com/news/2007/12/14/sounds-silence-and-static-give-way-celebration-wvvy-turns-937 [3] https://mvyradio.org/about [4] https://www.mvtimes.com/2024/11/26/mvy-radio-live-marthas-vineyard/ [5] https://vineyardgazette.com/news/2023/07/20/air-and-online-mvy-celebrates-40-years-community-radio