This past spring, it became clear that layoffs and downsizing in the media industry would continue unabated, as the numbers of displaced newsroom employees here in South Florida pushed skyward.
Historically, industries caught up in such dramatic technological change have generated support systems and social welfare organizations for displaced workers. But in South Florida, we media professionals have been accustomed to competing against one another, and little else.
Intent on changing that paradigm, several South Florida news professionals have founded a 501c3 charitable organization called Journalists in Transition, Inc. Our goal is to enable the talented people displaced by this time of change to find and nurture their spark.
Journalists in Transition, Inc. is dedicated to helping news professionals of all races and backgrounds, regardless of whether they intend to stay in journalism or change careers. We strive to produce quality workshops, training programs and networking opportunities. Most importantly, we hope to give scholarships and small business-start up grants.
We are advised by professionals who have already made a great mark on our community, pro-bono attorney Judy Goodman, P.A., who helped lead West Palm Beach’s Kravis Center for the Performing Arts to success, and CPA Richard Rampell of Rampell & Rampell, who serves on the board of National Public Radio.
With their help and guidance, and the generosity of journalism-based foundations, we can serve our communities and develop our skills and businesses while avoiding potential conflicts of interest.
Journalists in Transition is seeking grants that will enable us to provide scholarships and small-business start-up funds. Visit again soon for an update on our progress.
A form to apply for grants will be uploadable here.
