Our Community Journalism Lab (CJL) is a bridge between Beacon reporters and readers across Missouri and Kansas. We work to publish news that addresses local concerns by consistently engaging with people about what they feel is missing from the conversation. Community member insights directly fuel stories that are accessible, relevant and impactful.
Through our community work, we’re able to answer pressing questions and shed light on issues with real consequences for our neighbors. You’ll find articles addressing reader ideas and questions on our website labeled as Community Sourced. Join the movement by sending us a suggestion of what our team should look into here.
Community Journalism Lab Locations
How it Works
Our CJL includes a group of community representatives led by a full-time Beacon community manager. Each newsroom lab spearheads innovative initiatives that seek out ideas, questions and concerns from across the beats our newsroom covers that are specific to their locations.
Diverse Partnerships and Initiatives
The CJL takes a leading role in weaving strong ties between The Beacon and diverse communities. Through strategic partnerships and tailored initiatives, our community representatives ensure The Beacon resonates with, and authentically represents, a broad spectrum of voices within the community. Our lab aims to enhance The Beacon’s inclusivity and relevance by seeking out different perspectives, rather than waiting for them to find us.
Enhancing Community Relationships
Our primary goal is to foster and strengthen the relationship between The Beacon and the community we serve, often by creating opportunities for conversation, collaboration and mutual understanding. When you notice an issue affecting your neighborhood that isn’t getting addressed by the media, we hope The Beacon is one of your first stops in raising awareness.
Events Beyond the Newsroom
Community reps focus on organizing community listening sessions, attending external public meetings and outreach campaigns; extending The Beacon’s reach and influence beyond traditional newsroom boundaries.