J.C. Derrick
It’s been almost three months since we launched the Mainstreet membership program, and I’m thrilled to report that growth has quickly exceeded our expectations.
When we launched on Dec. 14, we anticipated it would take some time for readers to discover it, familiarize themselves with it, and then decide to join. It turns out more of you were already prepared to join our mission than we realized.
In less than three months, we have seen the membership program swell to more than 225 members. That means we’re closing in on the 25% mark toward our goal of 1,000 members.
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
This support plays a critical role in Mainstreet’s ability to continue producing news, sports and events coverage that helps you be a more informed citizen, stay safe, and be a better neighbor in Alachua County.
That really is the first and most important reason to become a member. You are saying, yes, I want to help build a stronger community by supporting independent local news—and keeping it freely available to everyone.
As I’ve written before in this space, reader revenue is a critical piece of a viable journalism enterprise, even though we don’t have a paywall. Picture it like a three-legged stool: advertising, reader revenue, and philanthropy.
Our list of advertising partners is growing (a record number in next week’s print edition), and now our membership program is growing quickly, too. Some of you have also taken advantage of the tax-deductible giving option we launched in December, and we are working on initiatives to grow that further.
In addition to claiming a stake in local news, other benefits include a monthly member-only newsletter, which includes special announcements, surveys and peeks behind the scenes at Mainstreet operations.
Members also receive invitations to exclusive events. This month, we’re hosting member-only events featuring Florida House Speaker Pro Tempore Chuck Clemons (March 14) and Rep. Yvonne Hayes Hinson (March 27), who will talk about their perspectives on the 2024 legislative session and take audience questions.
Members also receive special access opportunities. So far this year we’ve given away tickets to Busch Gardens Tampa, the Hippodrome Theatre, Gatornationals, and Gator basketball, gymnastics and baseball.
A member who received a four-pack of tickets to Busch Gardens reported that it was “an awesome (and affordable!) visit.”
“The park has expanded and there’s a lot to see and do,” he wrote. “It was an unforgettable experience.”
Becoming a member is only $10 to $12 per month (depending on whether you choose a monthly or annual plan), so it’s very affordable. Please go to our member signup page and take a stand for independent local news.