BY EMMA PEPPER, DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC NETWORK COMMUNICATIONS, THE HUB
Today, I stopped by a convenience store in Charleston to pick up some snacks. There is one person who works the register who always takes a moment to say hello and have a good day when customers are arriving or leaving the store. He’s not required to do this as part of his job – it’s his way of building community, no matter where he is. It’s his way of being a West Virginian.
Our challenges may be great, but the squad of West Virginians who show up to make a difference in our communities is even greater.
Whether it is being intentional about showing kindness to our neighbors, volunteering in our community, running small businesses to make our towns brighter, supporting the next generation, or driving forward solutions to directly address the challenges of our day, champions for West Virginia abound.
Our pride for our state and the way we show up for one another is infectious.
Every year, West Virginians are recognized on national stages because of our passion for uplifting and supporting our neighbors. Like this year, when their innovative approach to bringing new life to their downtown led the team at Wheeling Heritage to earn a Great American Main Street title, or when Huntington Fire Chief Jan Rader was described as a humanitarian warrior for her TED Talk on solutions to the Opioid Crisis, or when Fruits of Labor’s Tammy Jordan was recognized for her fiercely innovative approach to economic development.
Every day, West Virginians are showing up for one another in ways big and small. These people are Champions for West Virginia.
Champions and Trailblazers is our June #NewStoryWV theme – #NewStoryWV is a collaborative storytelling project to celebrate the people and projects that show the spirit of West Virginia.
Do you know someone who is a champion for West Virginia? Give them a shout out on social media this month, and make sure to include the hashtag #NewStoryWV.
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Here’s some example language to use on social media – attach a photo and you’re all set!
I’m shining a light on <insert name> today as a trailblazer in West Virginia because he/she <insert reason why this person is awesome>. <insert name> shows the true spirit of West Virginia. #NewStoryWV
Find more information about #NewStoryWV »
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