Launching What's Up Worcester News, Inc. as a 501(c)(3): A New Chapter for Community Journalism
A New Chapter for Community Journalism
What’s up, Worcester? Big news. As of September 3rd, 2025, we’re leveling up. What’s Up Worcester is now What’s Up Worcester News, Inc., officially recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. That means we’re here not just as your local news source, but as your community newsroom, built for you and powered by you.
What’s a 501(c)(3), Anyway?
Quick breakdown: it means the IRS says we’re legit. We’re a nonprofit, tax-exempt, and fully focused on serving the public good. Translation? We’re free from chasing clicks and ad dollars. Every story we cover, every event we highlight, every voice we amplify, it’s all about Worcester.
And here’s the kicker: your donations are now tax-deductible. Yup, when you support us, you also get a little love back at tax time.
👉 Donate here!
Why This Matters
Worcester needs local journalism that shows up—to City Hall, to school committee meetings, to the block parties, and to the stories that matter. When other outlets shrink or skip out, we’ll be the ones in the room, asking the tough questions and shining a light on the good stuff too.
We know this city. We know the difference between Main South and Webster Square. We know the hustle of the small business owner who’s been holding it down for decades. And we know the power of putting the mic in front of voices that don’t always get heard.
That’s why being nonprofit matters: we’re not here to sell ads; we’re here to serve the people.
What You Can Expect
We’re still the same crew, you know—with Jerry Filmore steering the ship and a growing team of reporters, writers, and community voices. You’ll keep seeing:
- Breaking news that actually impacts you.
- Spotlights on small businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders.
- Weekend rundowns, event coverage, and those hidden gems you don’t want to miss.
But now? We get to dream bigger. More in-depth reporting. More features that dig into the real issues. More space for YOU to share your stories. And yes, more events where we come together as neighbors, not just readers.
How You Can Plug In
This is the fun part because this isn’t just our newsroom; it’s yours too.
- Share our stuff. When you repost an article, you help build Worcester’s informed community.
- Tell us what’s up. Got a story idea, a tip, or just something dope happening in your neighborhood? Hit us up.
- Support if you can. Every dollar goes right back into keeping this newsroom alive.
👉 Donate here. - Stay connected. Don’t miss a beat; subscribe for updates.
👉 Subscribe here.
Or just scan this QR code:
- Join the squad. Writers, photographers, event coverage, outreach, whatever your lane, we’ve got space for you.
👉 Volunteer here.
Looking Ahead
We’ve been grinding since 2022, but this moment feels like the real beginning. Being a nonprofit isn’t just a status—it’s a promise: to inform, engage, and empower Worcester.
We’re building something that’s bigger than headlines. Something that makes sure every voice is heard, every story gets told, and every person feels connected to their city.
So thank you for rocking with us—whether you’ve been here since day one or just found us yesterday. We’re here to earn your trust every single day. Worcester, this next chapter? We’re writing it together.
📬Have news, tips, or a story Worcester needs to hear?
Email Editor-in-Chief Jerry Filmore at [email protected] or [email protected].
Because at the end of the day, community news starts with you.
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