As an independent and non-partisan source of news and programming for the region, our goal is to select programs and programming content that meet the broad expectations of our listeners, donors, friends and neighbors.

The VPR Board of Directors delegates the day-to-day operation of the stations (with its various program choices) to the full-time, professional staff of hosts, reporters, producers, editors, and managers. Their responsibility is to offer programming of the highest quality that reflects the communities VPR serves, while maintaining the core values of public radio.

The VPR Community Forum is a statutory resource that meets regularly as a group in locations across the listening area, and provides important feedback to the organization.

This programming model has served the organization well for the past 30 years, and it is reflected in the significant audiences, stable funding, and broad community involvement that Vermont Public Radio is privileged to enjoy.

Here are the broad criteria that we look at in the selection of specific regional, national and international programs:

·        VPR purpose and mission

The station’s goals are informed by the strategic plan, which is updated annually and adopted by the VPR Board of Directors.  All programs selected need to meet the goals and objectives as outlined in the plan.

·        Professional evaluation

We seek programs that are relevant and interesting to our audience.  News and information programs need to meet the highest standards of editorial integrity and independence.

·        Independence

To maintain its independence and integrity, which is paramount, VPR has established a firewall so that VPR Programming is free from influence in selecting programming.

·        Audience research

VPR uses professional radio research tools and data to evaluate and measure audience trends within the region. National research is also an important factor.

·        Program availability

The professional reputation and ability of the program producer to deliver a consistently high quality program in a timely manner, with fundraising and promotion support are essential.

·        Market factors

When selecting programs we take into account the variety of program services, both commercial and non-commercial, which are broadcast throughout the listening area.

·        Program Expense

The cost of acquiring network programming or producing local programming can vary widely.  VPR must always consider the cost of a program in order to stay within the structure of our annual budget.

·        Listener comments

Listener response to programming is evaluated regularly.  Listeners contact VPR each week by telephone, letter, voice message and e-mail.  Listener correspondence is posted for all staff to read.  In all cases our principal goal is that each listener will receive an appropriate and timely response.