IRE Receives $100,000 from Ethics & Excellence in Journalism Foundation

Investigative Reporters and Editors has received a $100,000 grant from the Ethics and Excellence in Journalism Foundation in support of its Better Watchdog Workshop program. This series of regional workshops is one of IRE’s signature programs and brings vital training in investigative reporting techniques to journalists nationwide.

“Strong support from the Ethics & Excellence in Journalism Foundation has brought this crucial program to thousands of journalists throughout the country over the past several years,” IRE Executive Director Mark Horvit said. “This new grant will have great impact in communities large and small, as we bring training that helps journalists provide better watchdog coverage for those they serve.”

The Better Watchdog Workshop program teaches investigative techniques to journalists, journalism students and educators. Sessions can cover a range of topics, including using the Web as an investigative tool, key documents every reporter needs, tips and advice on handling open records requests, effective techniques for interviewing, and much more. Session leaders also offer hands-on classes in computer-assisted reporting for participants. Top-notch investigative journalists from around the country team with IRE trainers to provide sessions that are filled with inspiration as well as tangible tips and resources.

IRE is a non-profit educational and professional organization of more than 4,500 journalists working to foster excellence in journalism. Founded in 1975, IRE also runs the National Institute for Computer-Assisted Reporting, a joint program of IRE and the Missouri School of Journalism.

Ethics & Excellence in Journalism Foundation’s mission is to invest in the future of journalism by building the ethics, skills, and opportunities needed to advance principled, probing news and information. The Foundation distributed a total of $1.5 million to 21 journalism organizations.