Help the Institute make a better South!

Today we sent out an appeal for those interested in supporting our work at the Institute. We've since learned our online donation system is being buggy -- if you run into that problem, you can mail your tax-deductible contribution to ISS, PO Box 531, Durham, NC 27702. Thanks -- we hope to get it fixed soon!UPDATE : Problem fixed! Make your secure online donations here.

Change is in the air. Can we keep the momentum going?

Dear Friend:

Can you feel it? Change is in the air. Across the South and country, people like you have been saying "we've had enough" and are standing up for a new direction:

In Jena, Louisiana and the Gulf Coast, thousands have stood up to reclaim their lives and dignity, torn apart by injustice and negligence.

Families have demanded an end to war -- and for Washington to confront real threats to our safety, like global warming.

In 2008, millions are gearing up to march to the polls and cast a vote for a new future.

As a friend of the Institute for Southern Studies, you know that by working together, a better future is possible. That's because on issues from war to working families, the Institute is always there - a leader and catalyst for change.

We take you to the front lines. We report on the issues others won't cover. We tackle the tough problems others won't touch.

You and thousands of others count on the Institute for information you can trust, tools you can use, and a bold new vision for this place we call home.

Now, we're counting on you - to support our unique voice for change and keep the momentum going for a better South and country.

Facing South is produced by the Institute for Southern Studies, the leading "think tank/act tank" in the South working for justice, democracy and peace.

Whether it's exposing under-reported stories or advocating for change -- from the halls of Congress to the streets -- the Institute helps you better understand the South and change it for the better.

We've been doing it all along: As the Columbia Journalism Review pointed out this fall, the Institute broke the story about Citigroup and the sub-prime lending crisis -- four years before the Big Media caught on.

Now, we need your help.

Change is coming at the Institute, too: this May, we will launch Facing South Magazine -- the first and only in-depth web publication about the South.

Facing South Magazine will deliver to you and thousands of others more investigative reporting, more fresh new Southern voices, and more resources for change.

Your support can make it happen. Today, I hope you will say YES to building a stronger, more powerful progressive voice in the South and make a special, tax-deductible gift to the Institute.

We don't take money from the government or big corporations. Over 90% of our investigative budget comes from loyal friends and readers like you.

With your help, we can take our work to the next level -- and change the face of media in the South.

Thank you -- your support at this exciting and important time is most appreciated!

My best wishes in the New Year,

Chris Kromm
Executive Director

P.S. -- Thank you to those who have already contributed more than $6,000 towards our goal. If you haven't had a chance yet, make your donation today.

If you would prefer to contribute by mail, please send your check payable to ISS to P.O. Box 531, Durham, NC 27702. Thank you!