Porter County ARC

ABOUT US

About Us: Porter County Amateur Radio Club (K9PC)

Welcome to the Porter County Amateur Radio Club (PCARC), a vibrant community of radio enthusiasts dedicated to connecting people through the power of amateur radio. Established in 1976, our club has served as a central hub for ham radio operators in Valparaiso, Indiana, and across the greater Porter County area.

Operating under the callsign K9PC, we bring together amateur radio operators of all experience levels to explore the vast world of radio communication. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or just starting out, PCARC provides a welcoming space for all who share an interest in radio technology, public service, and community engagement.

Our Mission

At PCARC, our mission is simple: to promote the enjoyment, education, and use of amateur radio, while fostering a spirit of camaraderie and service. We achieve this by offering a range of activities, events, and educational opportunities that help members grow their knowledge, skills, and passion for radio.

What We Do

PCARC is more than just a club—it’s a resource for the community. We maintain active VHF and UHF repeaters, ensuring reliable communication throughout the region. These repeaters play a crucial role in our local emergency communications efforts and help us stay connected with members.

We hold monthly meetings, which are an excellent opportunity for members to learn, share experiences, and collaborate on projects. In addition to our regular meetings, we participate in public service activities and special events throughout the year. For instance, our club was instrumental in operating a special event station during the MAAC Foundation’s First Responder Appreciation & Demonstration Day, highlighting the importance of amateur radio in disaster response and community support.

Educational Outreach

Education is at the heart of what we do. We offer classes and testing sessions to help individuals obtain or upgrade their amateur radio licenses. Whether you’re looking to get your first license or advance to a higher level, our club provides the resources and guidance you need to succeed. We also foster a mentoring culture, where experienced members support newcomers and share their knowledge and expertise.

Community Involvement

As part of our commitment to public service, PCARC members are trained to assist with communication during emergencies and public events. Amateur radio plays a critical role in emergency situations when traditional communication infrastructure may fail. Our members stand ready to provide vital communication support when needed, ensuring the safety and coordination of community events.

Join Us

If you’re looking to explore the exciting world of amateur radio, PCARC is the perfect place to start. Whether you’re interested in radio technology, public service, or simply want to meet others with similar interests, there’s a place for you here. Join us for our monthly meetings, held (for the most part) on the 2nd Friday of the month at the MAAC Foundation, 203 Montdale Dr, Valparaiso, IN, take part in our educational programs, and be part of a community that values friendship, learning, and service.

To get involved, visit our website and become a member of the Porter County Amateur Radio Club today. Together, we’ll continue to foster a spirit of connection and communication under the trusted callsign K9PC.

We look forward to welcoming you to our community!