by Adam Ortega, reporter
OMAHA – North Omaha Information Support Everyone (NOISE) is a community-led newsroom developed to address information gaps within minority communities in Omaha. NOISE is a multimedia platform prioritizing web and social media while supporting coverage with radio, print, text alerts and events to make news more accessible.
Dawaune Hayes is founder and director at NOISE. He started the nonprofit newsroom after taking part in a communication survey, which showed a lack of access to community information and local events in North Omaha.
“We are a community organization based in North Omaha addressing information, and disparity gaps by using technology and resources to inform our community about what the heck is going on,” said Hayes.
Their team is comprised of North Omaha residents. Everyone on the team is committed to serving and informing their community. Through local gatherings, NOISE has been able to unify public officials and community members for dynamic discussions.
Civic news is their core because there is no democracy unless the citizens are informed of their rights. Their coverage of local civics is putting the government back in the hands of the people. Community news considers subjects that impact people on a daily basis – topics like health and well-being, education and housing. Culture speaks on local artists, festivals and public gatherings which are an integral part of North Omaha.
The nonprofit newsroom wants to share the tools of storytelling and content creation with younger generations, so they are prepared to tell the difficult stories that lie ahead.
“NOISE is an organization for the people, by the people. Our journalism provides useful information, and holds representatives accountable to the people they serve,” said Hayes.
