#BRANDWHITESVILLE

A History of Coal and Community

Whitesville is located in Boone County with a population of 503 residents. A former coal town located in the central part of the state, Whitesville has decreased in population steadily over the past 70 years. Its main attraction, the Upper Big Branch Miners Memorial Plaza, draws visitors to remember 29 miners tragically lost in a mining disaster in 2010. Whitesville is positioned as a community pride brand, which can potentially lead to an economic development brand in time.

Challenge

Incorporated in the 1930s, Whitesville, West Virginia, is faced with a shortage of jobs and lack of commerce due to the declining coal industry.

Solution

After conducting focus groups, surveys and talking to community leaders, the students created a community branding center in conjuction with the town's existing economic agencies. Their goals were to promote the town's history, recreational and education tourism, as well as promote communtity pride and increase resident engagement.

Accomplishments

• New slogan

• New website

• New billboards

• Developed two educational tourism curricula

• Established regional partnerships

• Templates for email campaigns

• Promotional materials

• Media placement

• Hosted community events

Portfolio

A compilation of branding materials created by the #PRessgrovePros

Gallery