One to One—
One to Many—
One to Any—

With all the ways we have to communicate today, who needs Amateur Radio?

We all have cell phones and the internet. We listen to broadcast TV and radio. We can communicate with each other on social media, so where does Amateur radio fit into our already well-connected lives?

Amateur Radio is, first of all, a hobby.

Your cell phone is a one-to-ONE communication device. You must know who you are calling, and they must be willing and available to receive your call. Amateur radio can function as a one-to-one communication device as well.

The internet and social media are one-to-MANY communication systems. You can communicate with many individuals by posting on Twitter or Facebook about a shared passion or interest. Amateur Radio works well for one-to-many communications too.

But none of these other communication systems offer a one-to-ANY communication. Amateur radio allows you to communicate live with someone who wants to communicate with you. They could be around the block or an amateur operator in another country in another part of the world. There is always someone out there who will hear your call and come back to you over amateur radio. You don’t have to know their number or, in amateur radio terms, their call sign; you don’t have to wonder if someone is available or if it’s too early or too late in the day to call. There is always someone out there, willing and anxious to communicate with you, any time of the day or night.

All the other forms of communication depend upon some infrastructure. Amateur radio equipment will work without infrastructure. Most amateur radios are designed to run off batteries rather than the electrical grid, and there is no need for functioning cell towers to facilitate amateur radio communication. When all else fails, amateur radio comes to the rescue with reliable communications in hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters. Amateur radio is emergency communication that is always available regardless of circumstance.

The hobby is more than just a hobby; it is a part of every emergency agency’s essential communication system. As an amateur operator, you can volunteer as an emergency response program member and be a valuable resource when communications are critical for coordination of rescue and safety, and when all other forms of communications become ineffective.

The hobby is a community of people who are always willing to give their time and expertise to others. Joining a radio club puts you in touch with experienced operators ready to help you learn about and maintain your radio equipment in a spirit of camaraderie and fellowship. It gives you the opportunity to meet other amateurs who enjoy this fun and exciting hobby.