To bolster WWNO-FM’s news-focused format change, which begins today, the station is forming a reporting collaboration with The Lens and NolaVie.com.

The joint effort brings together experienced journalists to increase local news coverage on broadcast and digital platforms at a critical point in the renewal of our city, region and community.

The three nonprofits began discussing the collaboration late last year. We will share resources, including stories, and each organization will offer editorial input for WWNO broadcast pieces.

“For 40 years WWNO has been ‘the source for NPR news and great classical music,’” said WWNO general manager Paul Maassen.  “WWNO also aims to be a trusted source for local news and cultural information.  By partnering with The Lens and NolaVie, WWNO will strengthen its reporting of local news stories, including arts and culture, education, government and other subjects important to our region.”

NolaVie was launched in February 2011 as the region’s first nonprofit cultural and community website devoted to covering the lifestyles, people and events of the city and region. Founded by former Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra executive director Sharon Litwin and former Times-Picayune editor and columnist Renee Peck,  NolaVie offers curated and edited content from an array of award-winning writers, published local authors, musicians, photographers and essayists.

See the full news release here.