Amateur (ham) radio is a way for people from all walks of life to meet and talk to one another "over the airwaves." There are several ways for hams to talk to each other. There is Morse code, voice, and digital (computers connected to computers via radio). Amateur radio is a fun way for people to talk and experiment (there is always somebody trying something new).

Ham radio is a fun way to communicate, however, it is not only enjoyable but useful as well. During weather alerts of all kinds and potentially tragic events, ham operators are often called upon to assist in emergency communications, as well as helping with search and rescue.

Ham radio can also be a way for a family to communicate with each other. They could each carry a HT (handie-talkie, like a walkie talkie) with them wherever they go. When one family member needs to contact another, they can just call from their station (sometimes called their "ham shack") at home.