America250
2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States
As the United States approaches its 250th year, WQPT is joining the commemoration. America250 is the national initiative to spark action, reflection, and community impact.
WQPT is launching three different opportunities to answer this national call:
The American Revolution
Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt have come out with a new documentary focusing on the Revolutionary War and the perspectives not often heard from. This new six-part, twelve-hour documentary will explore the eight years of war that led to the country’s founding. The American Revolution will premiere on WQPT in January 2026. Find more information and episode trailers here.
Volunteer with WQPT
America250 isn’t just about history. It’s about promoting positive change. Each month, WQPT will partner with local nonprofits and changemakers to take that spark and turn it into something real.
WQPT is giving back this year as we commemorate America's 250th birthday, and we want you to join us in civic engagement opportunities. Throughout our America250 initiative, we will be volunteering at a different local non-profit organization each month. Please use this form to share your interest in volunteering with WQPT.
Questions? Contact Melissa Gravert, Director of Educational Outreach at 309-764-2400 m-gravert@wiu.edu
Civic Spark
WQPT is asking community members and community leaders about their Civic Spark: How does what you do impact the community and why do you do what you do?
What motivates you to do something - to pitch in, speak up, show up, and make change where you live?
Catch these sparks in episodes of WQPT’s public affairs show, The Cities, on social media, and on YouTube.
