Three organizations representing TV and radio broadcasters have started a fund to support the families of two Virginia journalists fatally shot during a live news broadcast Aug. 26.

The National Association of Broadcasters, Radio Television Digital News Association and the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced the creation of the "Alison and Adam Memorial Fund" on Aug. 28 to collect donations from broadcasters on behalf of Alison Parker and Adam Ward. Both journalists were shot and killed by former colleague Vester Lee Flanagan, who later took his own life.

The fund has raised $40,000 so far, according to the groups. A portion of the fund will be distributed to the family members of Parker and Ward. An additional contribution will be made to Vicki Gardner, executive director of the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce. Gardner was being interviewed by Parker at the time of the shooting and was shot and wounded.

Remaining funds will go to the Committee to Protect Journalists, a New York City-based organization dedicated to press freedom and protecting the rights of reporters to work without fear of reprisal.

"Our hearts are heavy with grief over this horrifying act of violence against two individuals with a zest for life and a love of broadcasting," NAB President Gordon Smith said. "We encourage our member companies to join with NAB in supporting the families of these two young journalists, who were taken way too soon."

Contributions to the fund can be mailed to NAB. The association also is working on an online contribution method, which is expected to appear on its Web site soon. http://bit.ly/1X5oqWi

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