emPower (knowledge. vision. power.) is an online magazine that not only offers commentary and articles on
social, economical, health, political, educational and environmental issues facing people of African descent, but also challenge readers to take action through volunteerism and social activism.
WHY WE WRITE
emPower's mission is to not only deliver timely and thought-provoking
articles and advice, but to also seek solutions to issues plaguing the
African-American community, and stimulate civic activism, volunteerism
and cohesiveness. Features take an in-depth look at current issues. A
"What YOU Can Do About It" sidebar, which lists organizations/groups
that assist in the topic discussed, as well as ideas on how to make a
difference on your own, will accompany each feature article.
OUR MISSION
Each
year, the magazine focuses on one issue or cause. In 2009, emPower
focused on HIV/AIDS in the African American community and in Africa. In
2010, emPower will focus on black on black crime among youth. emPower
is looking to collaborate with non profit organizations so emPower
readers can become active participants in their communities by donating
their time, talents or money. If you are an organization that would
like to join our Non profit network, email editorial@emPowernewsmag.com and put "non profit network" in the subject line.
Read online at: www.emPowernewsmag.com.
DEPARTMENTS
Editorial Content
- STAR POWER - Celebrities' philanthropy, activism, civic participation and volunteerism are featured. While other publications focus on an artist's latest album or an actor's current movie, we also want to know how they are impacting the lives of others.
- BACK TALK – In this section, readers will give feedback on particular articles and/or general comments about a previous issue of the magazine.
- GLOBAL – This department will highlight current events that influence Blacks in various parts of the world.
- THE NATION – News originally reported in various newspapers that deserve national attention will be featured in this section.
- GRASSROOTS – In each issue, this section will spotlight a person, group or organization that’s making a positive impact in their community. Their cause is highlighted along with contact information on ways to give with money or time.
- WHY THIS MATTERS – From the 2008 election, outsourced factory jobs, No Child Left Behind, the war in Iraq to technological advances; this department will show why these topics are important to the African American community and how it affects their families, finances, careers and future.
- MISSION ACCOMPLISHED – In a first person narrative, readers will tell how they: completed college at the age of 60; went from welfare to a business owner; faced a fear by going skydiving.
- EDUCATE US – A section discussing education issues/ trends facing people of color. It will include a Young Gifted & Black sidebar, which will showcase incredible young African Americans under the age of 18.
- INSPIRATIONAL INSIGHT – An advice columnist will write an inspirational message in each issue to uplift the spirit and calm the soul.
- KINDRED – This Q&A formatted column will answer readers’ relationship questions regarding their families, friends, co-workers, etc.
- ASSETS – This section will keep African Americans up-to-date on financial news, technology and business. It will also include a Q & A sidebar.
- WORKFORCE – An expert will offer advice on careers, such as job advancement, work ethics and salary negotiations.
- HARMONY – This department will help African Americans become more health conscious and include alternative ways for them to stay fit and live a healthier lifestyle (balanced diet, exercise, stress reduction, etc.).
- SANCTUARY – This column will show readers how to make their place of residence a subdue getaway and private sanctuary through innovative design techniques. Readers' homes will also be highlighted.
- SOUL LIFE – Books, television shows, documentaries and movies that have positive topics and relevant subjects will be highlighted.
- MONUMENTAL – At the end of each issue, this section will highlight a historical Black event that occurred around the same date that the issue is printed.
- WHAT DID YOU DO – Readers who took action on a particular issue after reading emPower have an opportunity to share their story online.
- JUST FOR FICTION – There are two sections in this department. First, readers can submit poetry, which can be featured in each issue of emPower. In "Tag, You Write," in each issue, one reader is chosen to complete the next chapter of a short story, which was initially started by emPower staff.
- TRAVEL TALES – Whether a reader had a blast in Belize or got their "groove back" in Guam, the section will chronicle it all. Written in a first-person narrative, writers share how their lives were transformed during a vacation. A sidebar of travel, hotel and price information will be included in the article.
- OPERATION GREEN – It will include tips on living a green, organic lifestyle.
Podcasts and Videocasts (coming 2011)
- YOU HEARD IT FIRST – A round up of artist whose albums have dropped. Featured every Tuesday, artists who might not be featured in traditional magazines or get airplay will be highlighted (neosoul, underground hip hop, alternative rock, indie).
- emPower HOUR – Broadcasted live from 2-3 p.m. Eastern Time online, this talk radio-style program allows readers to discuss topics featured in the magazine along with industry experts on the topic.
- 15 MINUTES WITH – Interviews people who have accomplished something remarkable.
- LIFE DOCUMENTED – Seasoned or amateur videographers can submit 15-30 minute short documentaries of any topic/cause that would be of interest to the Black community. They are updated weekly.
- ON ASSIGNMENT – This videocast will document various events such as marches or rallies, debates, movie premieres, court trial and national conferences that are relevant to the African-American community.
In addition, there will be a “Two Cents,” written by the editorial director, where she gives her viewpoint on the issue’s main feature story.
Sounds interesting? Visit emPower' Website, www.emPowernewsmag.com, to learn more.