About the WVRA
The Wisconsin Valley Radio Association (WVRA) is:
- An organization bringing together Amateur Radio (Ham Radio) operators in Central Wisconsin
- Dedicated to the use of Amateur Radio in service to our communities
The WVRA is a 501(c)3 organization under the IRS code. We are a not-for-profit organization affiliated with the national association for amateur radio – the American Radio Relay League (ARRL). We are focused on:
- The continued learning of our members and to the technologies and advancement of Amateur Radio
- Emergency preparedness in support of the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) and Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services (RACES), which supplements emergency government communication capabilities in times of disaster
- The operation of analog and digital communication radio systems on various Amateur Radio bands
- Providing communications to enhance safety at public events; past events have included:
- Badger State Winter Games
- Special Olympics Winter Games
- 24/9: Twenty-four hours at Nine Mile
- The Great Annual Bicycle Adventure Along the Wisconsin River
- Bike Northwoods
- Wausau MS Walk
- Wausau Balloon Rally and Glow
- Wausau Marathon
- Big Bull Falls Grand Fondo
- Severe Weather Storm Spotting as part of the Amateur Radio Emergency Service in support of the National Weather Service
- Demonstrating our field operating capability by participating in the ARRL’s Field Day exercise
Our members are typically all licensed amateur radio operators under the Federal Communications Commission (FCC); however a license is not required for membership. Membership is open to all persons.
The WVRA has been recognized by the American Radio Relay League as a Special Service Club. This designation acknowledges the WVRA’s continued efforts in:
- Development and training of new Amateur Radio operators
- Maintaining a public presence in our communities
- The ongoing support of emergency preparedness
- Education on the technical and new aspects of Amateur Radio
Most importantly, we are a group of friends and neighbors, enjoying the amateur radio hobby to the benefit of our communities.