Tuned In to Stanislaus County: Modesto Peace/Life Center
Across the country, communities are losing access to reliable local news, putting many at risk of becoming media deserts. When local news fades, so does the shared understanding that helps people engage in civic life and stay connected to what’s happening around them. Here in Stanislaus County, the Modesto Peace/Life Center is working to ensure that access to local news continues.
Founded in 1970 as a draft counseling organization during the Vietnam War, the Modesto Peace/Life Center supported hundreds of men as they navigated the draft and its life-changing implications. After the war ended in 1975, the Center shifted its focus to peace and justice activities, working to nurture Stanislaus County into a “beloved community” where all people can live in harmony.
In 2025, the Modesto Peace/Life Center received a grant from Stanislaus Community Foundation’s Civic Solutions Fund – established to invest in both new and existing local news platforms in an effort to rebuild civic leadership in our community. The grant supports two of the Center’s projects: Stanislaus Connections newspaper and KCBP Community Radio.
The first edition of Stanislaus Connections “hit stands” in 1989. Published monthly, the newsletter features local events and meetings, interviews with civic leaders, and reporting on local government and public issues – content that helps residents stay informed and connected to the community and each other. With support from the Civic Solutions Fund, the Center has been able to contract with a journalist to expand coverage of community events for the newsletter.
Since 2009, the Center has also operated KCBP Community Radio, also known as “Voice of the Valley.” Run by board member Jim Costello, the station partners with local nonprofits, artists, educators, and other community voices to reflect the richness of Stanislaus County. “Because we’re a community station, we pay specific attention to what’s happening in our region,” Costello said.
That focus is clearly reflected in many of the station’s shows. Youth in the Loop features interviews of local leaders by Modesto High School student Rudra. Vibin’ with West Modesto highlights the voices and stories of residents in the West Modesto community. The station also airs a live, Spanish-language show that shares local healthcare resources – connecting listeners to valuable information in a language they are most comfortable using.
Currently, KCBP broadcasts from a small classroom at Modesto Church of the Brethren. With funding from the Civic Solutions Fund, the Modesto Peace/Life Center plans to relocate the station’s broadcast operations to a more permanent space, where a fully equipped recording studio can be built – expanding their ability to produce even more high quality, community focused programming.
“Public radio and local journalism are needed to keep the community alive with information,” Costello shared. “They don’t just promote peace and nonviolence – they help our democracy survive.”
To stay up to date with the latest from the Modesto Peace/Life Center, visit their website or Facebook page.