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What is GaRRS? GaRRS is an independent ,  not-for-profit, 501(c)3 organization.  Our mission is to provide blind and print-handicapped Georgians with access to the printed word.  We are staffed almost entirely by volunteers who read articles from the more than 120 magazines and 35 newspapers which are broadcast on a daily basis.  In addition,  some 25 unabridged books are read every month. GaRRS broadcasts these publications and other information 7 days a week, 24 hours a day by way of subchannel radios provided by GaRRS.  The Programs can also be heard on some cable systems throughout the state.  Who Listens to GaRRS? GaRRS' listening audience is as diverse as its programming. Some listeners have been blind since birth, while others lost their sight through illness in middle age after a lifetime of reading. Still others have retained sufficient peripheral vision to remain physically active but not enough to read. GaRRS' listeners also include senior citizens too weakened to read, people with palsy whose hands can no longer hold books, and the dyslexic.   "You have no idea how much pleasure your programs bring to my husband. He especially enjoys the reading of newspapers, sports, and books." "Since my husband's death, I have been trying to find the words that could adequately tell you what your service meant to him for a number of years. When his vision failed to the point that he could no longer drive a car, or read, he was devastated. He used to read his newspaper from front to back. Your excellent readers made it possible for him to sit back in his recliner and almost feel that he was reading it again."

		The Mission The GaRRS listening audience represents a growing and diverse cross-section of Georgians for whom GaRRS serves as their principal touchstone to the printed world. In order to meet the needs of its audience, GaRRS relies on all manner of donations: monetary gifts, office equipment, people's time. Funding also covers the cost of the special radios necessary to receive GaRRS' broadcast signal. Presently, more than 120 applicants with financial need are waiting to receive these radios. GaRRS hopes to fill this need through donations, so that no blind or print-handicapped person experiences the profound isolation often felt by those separated from printed material.
	"It was only a small box with two dials, one station. Not much you might think but turn the dial and realize this box makes it possible for my mother to again be part of the world. I will never forget the doctor who years ago was surprised at the books my mother had listened to and enjoyed over this little box. I return it now because at 90 she has alzheimer's. Thank you all for the years of pleasure this little box gave her. Again thank you for caring." "My 91-year-old father recently passed away and he had benefitted from your services since 1983. When his eyesight failed after being an avid reader, GaRRS was so important in keeping him in touch with daily events and greatly contributed to his mental health. He especially enjoyed hearing the newspaper reading."

The Vision A unique opportunity now exists for GaRRS to significantly expand its coverage area through additional cable Systems and noncommercial FM radio stations. GaRRS will reach these entities via satellite transmission made possible by its affiliation with Georgia Public Television. The new signal is clearer and easier to receive for rebroadcast purposes. GaRRS also envisions the development and delivery of simultaneous readings that will offer listeners instant choice of reading matter. Technology exists today that makes it possible for GaRRS to offer simultaneous reading programs. Conceivably listeners could choose from among ten or more programs broadcast concurrently. This new broadcasting capacity will present GaRRS the opportunity to fulfill much of its mission: to ensure that the blind and print-handicapped have independent access to printed information and maintain their status as informed and participative members of society. GaRRS hopes to use this opportunity to transmit its signal to every community in Georgia. Contributions In Georgia more than 100,000 people are classified as legally blind or severely visually handicapped. GaRRS serves as their second sight. Their numbers are increasing, and the majority of these individuals are senior citizens, many bound to their homes. The need has never been greater, and GaRRS's next steps will be determined by Georgians who seek to lift the barriers of isolation from the lives of our blind and print-handicapped citizens. GaRRS is supported by Government Grants, the United Way, and General Donations from businesses and individuals. You can give, too. For more information call April Cline, Executive Director, at 404-685-2820.

Georgia Radio Reading Service, Inc.
260 14th Street
Atlanta, GA, 30318
(404) 685-2820

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