Source Media Properties, the parent company of Richland Source, Ashland Source and Knox Pages, has released its 2024 Impact Report.
The report details a year of transformative storytelling, civic engagement and investigative journalism that has made a tangible difference in the region. It highlights how independent, community-supported, local journalism informed residents, held leaders accountable and inspired local action.
“As an independent newsroom, we believe in transparency—not just in our reporting, but in how we measure success,” said Leah Gesouras, Head of Community Investment at Source Media Properties.
“This report is a testament to what’s possible when local journalism is deeply connected to the people it serves.”
Key Highlights from the 2024 Impact Report:
- Trust in Local News: Nearly 95% of readers trust Source Media’s reporting, far exceeding the 31% trust in national media (Gallup)
- Engaging More Readers: Source Media published 2,325 stories and delivered nearly 65,000 newsletters, connecting with 1.35 million visitors seeking trusted, independent news in 2024
- Building a Supportive News Community: Over 800 readers became paying members in 2024, growing the total membership to more than 2,400 by the end of the year.
- Driving Civic Engagement: Source Media hosted public election forums, including the only Knox County Commissioner debate. The news platforms also published 46 voter guides and election coverage pieces that informed over 20,000 readers.
“The past year reinforced the essential role of local journalism as a catalyst for informed decision-making and positive change. Our work is driven by the needs of our readers, and we remain committed to delivering journalism that strengthens our community.”
Jay Allred, CEO at Source Media Properties
- Impactful Investigative Reporting: An in-depth investigation into Ashland County’s use of $46.6 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds led to increased transparency and a public discussion.
- Solutions Journalism at Work: Projects like “Ripple Effect,” a flood mitigation report, and “Substandard,” an investigation into housing barriers, provided real-world solutions to pressing local challenges.
- Community Events & Conversations: The Kaleidoscope Series brought nationally recognized authors to Richland County, sparking critical discussions on local issues, while a workforce reporting initiative, “Tomorrow’s Talent,” engaged over 1,400 high school students and 94 businesses.
“The past year reinforced the essential role of local journalism as a catalyst for informed decision-making and positive change,” said Jay Allred, CEO at Source Media Properties. “Our work is driven by the needs of our readers, and we remain committed to delivering journalism that strengthens our community.”
Read the Full Report & Support Local Journalism
The 2024 Impact Report is available to read online. Readers are encouraged to explore the full report and engage with the Source’s mission by subscribing to newsletters, attending events, and supporting independent journalism through a membership.
About Source Media Properties
Source Media Properties is an independent, community-driven newsroom serving Richland, Ashland and Knox counties. Committed to solutions journalism and civic engagement, we provide in-depth reporting that informs, inspires and strengthens the communities we serve.