In addition to accepting tax-deductible donations, the Guardian can now tap into additional funding sources, including businesses and philanthropic organizations who value the importance of independent community journalism
WORCESTER—In a significant milestone for independent journalism, the Worcester Guardian, the city’s free digital news organization, has been notified it is exempt under Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3) by the Internal Revenue Service.
This designation grants the Worcester Guardian exemption from federal income taxes, allowing it to receive tax-deductible donations and gifts from supporters.
The Worcester Guardian launched in September 2023. Since then, it has published over 300 stories on a wide range of topics including politics, education, business, sports, and arts and entertainment.
Readers access stories through the Guardian’s website, social media platforms – Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) – as well as free email newsletters.
Obtaining tax-exempt status provides the Worcester Guardian with new avenues for financial support and sustainability. The news organization was established with a $50,000 gift from the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce.
In addition to accepting tax-deductible donations, the Worcester Guardian can now tap into additional funding sources, including businesses and philanthropic organizations who value the importance of independent community journalism.
Former Telegram & Gazette executive editor David Nordman is overseeing the journalism as the Worcester Guardian’s lead consultant.
“We are thrilled to announce that the Worcester Guardian has been granted this status by the IRS,” Nordman said. “We look forward to continuing our mission of delivering high-quality journalism that educates and empowers our community.”
Charlene Arsenault is the Worcester Guardian’s editor.
“This designation and support that comes with it are going to allow us to continue doing what I think we’ve done a bang-up job with so far — hammering out solid, interesting, and relevant stories hyperlocal to Worcester,” Arsenault said.
By achieving tax-exempt status, the Guardian joins a growing number of news organizations that are exploring alternative funding models to ensure their long-term viability and independence.
Timothy M. Loew is chair of the Guardian’s board of directors, which provides financial oversight and ensures the organization receives adequate resources.
“This IRS determination reinforces our commitment to serving the public interest,” Loew said. “Being a 501(c)(3) allows us to partner with the community in new ways to support our journalism.”
In the coming weeks, the Worcester Guardian will announce important fundraising and partnership initiatives.
For more information about the Worcester Guardian and how to support its work, email info@theworcesterguardian.org.
