Andy Zanca Youth Empowerment Program

Background Statement

AZYEP was founded in 2000 by Annemarie Zanca, Licensed Professional Counselor, in honor of her brother Andy Zanca. Andy was a volunteer DJ on KDNK beginning at age nine until his death at the age of 21 in 1998; Andy died by suicide. A child and family therapist at the time, Annemarie recognized the power of radio to help young people develop self-esteem, as well as the influence radio has to combat isolation for both participants and listeners. She knew that by giving youth a voice, they gain opportunities for self-expression and the community gains insight into youth culture.

AZYEP's Evolution: For the past 25 years, AZYEP has partnered closely with KDNK and has grown from a 30-minute weekly music show to hosting 6.5 hours per week of music and talk shows in both English and Spanish. In 2007 AZYEP began partnering with teachers to incorporate radio projects into the school experience for 3rd to 12th graders. We now collaborate with over 45 teachers in 25 schools and four school districts. In 2015, AZYEP implemented a peer mentor program where more experienced radio announcers work alongside younger, developing DJs to produce radio programs. We now support eight paid high school interns per year. In 2017, we developed a youth news team that met once a week to learn about communication skills and journalism; this evolved into hosting multiple classes each semester ranging in content to support student interest. Through all of these programs, we use radio as the medium for one-on-one mentorship, social-emotional support and confidence building.

This school year, we are on-track to work with a record-breaking 1,700+ students in our community. With the exception of radio classes, we offer all of our programs free of charge. We believe that all students should have access to safe, supportive, and empowering opportunities, regardless of socioeconomic status.