You’ve heard the pitches before. You already know the benefits of public radio. You know how much your local station relies on you and your neighbors to keep it on the air, and to keep the airways thick with quality programming you hear nowhere else.

Remember, it’s your station. They don’t need you to come by sweep or tidy up the newsroom. But you can do your part by giving generously, in a lump sum now, or smaller tidbits each month.

And think about this: Many stations also offer innovative ways for you to give, through in-kind contributions, donation of your old car, or gifts of stocks. Business that underwrite programming receive on air recognition for their support. Or you can help by becoming a volunteer.

Throughout the past decade, public radio has provided me with a sturdy soapbox to spout my observations and to jab and poke at the world around me. Asking you to contribute is my way of saying thanks, by asking you, my readers and friends, to join me in supporting an institution that has become an important part of our day.

Come on. It’s not like they are asking you for a kidney.