Upholding Transparency and Accountability in Local News
In an era where trust in media is increasingly fragile, the Fort Worth Report has taken a significant step forward in solidifying its credibility and commitment to its community. Recently, the nonprofit news organization achieved a prestigious global certification that serves as a testament to its unwavering dedication to ethical journalism.
The Journalism Trust Initiative (JTI), led by Reporters Without Borders, has recognized the Fort Worth Report as a trusted news source, making it the second organization in the United States to earn this important distinction. This certification underscores the Fort Worth Report’s adherence to the highest standards of transparency, independence, and professionalism – values that are woven into the fabric of its daily operations.
The Rigorous Audit Process
Obtaining the JTI certification was no easy feat. The Fort Worth Report underwent a comprehensive two-year audit that meticulously examined every aspect of its editorial and business practices. This process began with a thorough self-assessment, during which the news organization closely scrutinized its own operations, from its editorial mission and public service obligations to its revenue sources and data collection practices.
The Alliance for Audited Media, an independent third-party organization, then verified the Fort Worth Report’s findings, ensuring that the news organization met the JTI’s stringent criteria. This audit also included random interviews with the newsroom staff to validate the team’s commitment to transparency and professionalism at every level.
Earning the Trust of the Community
As a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization serving Fort Worth, Arlington, and the greater Tarrant County, the Fort Worth Report has always understood that its most valuable asset is the trust of its community. Every story published is an opportunity to earn and maintain that credibility, and the JTI certification serves as a powerful endorsement of the news organization’s unwavering dedication to this principle.
“Trustworthy local news helps to ensure that local citizens have a good, working knowledge of our local government, our community, and more.” – Bayard Pratt, Fort Worth Report member
The certification covers two key areas: “Identity and Transparency” and “Professionalism and Accountability.” These pillars are not merely abstract concepts but are deeply ingrained in the Fort Worth Report’s daily operations. For instance, the news organization’s donor transparency policy ensures that its financial support, whether from foundations, individuals, or corporate sponsors, is publicly available and regularly updated. Its editorial independence policy further guarantees that its news coverage remains unbiased and free from the influence of any special interests.
Serving the Community, Earning Trust
In its three years of operation, the Fort Worth Report has published thousands of pieces of original journalism, from impactful investigations that have sparked meaningful change to in-depth reports that have brought the community closer together. While awards and accolades are certainly gratifying, the true measure of the news organization’s success lies in its ability to serve the people of Tarrant County.
The stories that resonate most with the Fort Worth Report’s readers provide clarity on complex issues, hold policymakers accountable, and amplify the voices of the community’s diverse residents. This commitment to community engagement is a guiding principle that was reinforced by a 2022 partnership with Magid, a national consumer research firm, to better understand the needs and expectations of the news organization’s audience.
Reaffirming the Commitment to Trust
As the Fort Worth Report looks to the future, the JTI certification is more than just a badge of honor – it is a responsibility. The news organization has pledged to continue delivering transparent, independent, and accountable journalism, reaffirming its commitment to earning the trust of its readers.
“In this day and time, one can never have too many facts — with one caveat: from trusted sources.” – Linda Bartles, Fort Worth Report member
The Fort Worth Report was built by a group of concerned neighbors who recognized the need for independent, community-focused journalism. Today, it is shaped entirely by residents like you, who ensure that local stories remain at the heart of its work and community. With the JTI certification, the news organization has solidified its position as a trusted source of information, ensuring that its mission to inform public decision-making, enhance the quality of life, and hold policymakers accountable will continue to guide its efforts in the years to come.
Empowering Communities Through Transparent, Independent Journalism
The Fort Worth Report’s achievement of the JTI certification is a significant milestone for independent journalism, not just in the local community, but on a global scale. This recognition serves as a powerful reminder of the essential role that trustworthy news organizations play in fostering informed, engaged, and thriving communities.
At Joint Action for Water, we believe that access to reliable, fact-based information is crucial for addressing the complex challenges surrounding water and sanitation services, community health, and environmental sustainability. The Fort Worth Report’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and community engagement aligns perfectly with our mission to empower local stakeholders and drive positive change.
As we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of media and information, the Fort Worth Report’s JTI certification stands as a shining example of what is possible when a news organization prioritizes its responsibility to the community it serves. This achievement serves as an inspiration for news organizations around the world, demonstrating that it is possible to uphold the highest standards of journalism while remaining deeply connected to the people and issues that matter most.
