Mississippi Public Broadcasting makes a difference in the lives Mississippians daily.
In January, we shared how thousands of residents get free health advice when they call in to Southern Remedy on the radio. Then in February, we told you about a single mom whose life was transformed as a result of her participation in MPB’s Education Parent Academy workshop. In March, we reminded you that MPB promotes the state’s $6.343 billion tourism industry with programs such as Mississippi Roads on television and Next Stop, Mississippi on radio.
This month, we’ll let MPB fans do the talking as they share MPB’s impact on their lives. These stories have been captured in testimonials airing on television, radio and social media platforms. Here is what they had to say:
“MPB has always been a big part of my life. I grew up listening to it, and now I can give back and be a part of the mission,” said Emily Stanfield, of Jackson, Mississippi. Stanfield volunteers regularly at MPB as a receptionist answering phones and questions on a variety of topics when people call in to the agency.
“As a single mom, MPB’s Education Parent Academy gave my life direction. I now have a full-time job and help my sons excel in school,” said Valeria Haley, also of Jackson. Haley participated in the seven-week workshop and gained parenting skills while discovering how to get her sons excited about reading. She was offered a job with Springboard To Opportunities, the MPB community partner that assists with the workshop.
“MPB’s Radio Reading Service provides visually impaired Mississippians like me access to news, books and entertainment. The weekly coupons save me money!” said Jan Hawthorne, of Jackson. Hawthorne represents one of 6,000 Mississippians who benefit from this free service, which gives those unable to read the printed word due to physical or vision impairments access to recordings of newspapers, books and magazines.
“Hearing Felder Rushing on MPB Radio inspired us to include tea production in our blueberry farm. Our business continues to grow!” said Don Van De Werken and Jeff Brown, tea farmers at JD Farms near Poplarville, Mississippi.
“As a taxi driver, I listen to MPB a lot. I learned the symptoms of a female heart attack from Southern Remedy, and it helped me to save a coworker’s life!” said Rebecca Edenburn, of Biloxi, Mississippi. Edenburn’s coworker was complaining of chest pains, and she encouraged her to seek medical attention because of what she heard on the radio program.
“MPB’s digital media workshop for high school students was amazing. I learned new skills, and now I’m pursuing a career in film production,” said Makallen Kelley, a high school student from Jackson.
As you can see, MPB’s impact on Mississippi extends beyond offering options for programming. Lives are being enhanced, saved and transformed. If you have an MPB story to share, visit www.mpbonline.org/story/ tell us all about it today!
