Mizzou study finds 'volunteer journalism' filling local news gap

Research from the Missouri School of Journalism suggests volunteer journalists could bridge the gap created by declining news outlets

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A new study from the University of Missouri School of Journalism introduces “volunteer journalism” as a promising solution to bridge the news and information gap in communities.

According to researchers, volunteer journalism involves individuals voluntarily contributing their time and effort to create, curate and share news and information as part of an organization.

“With traditional news organizations struggling or disappearing in many places, volunteer journalism could help fill the gap by keeping communities informed and connected,” Nick Mathews, assistant professor of journalism and lead author of the study, said. “This is particularly crucial in areas where professional journalism is no longer available.”

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