Rick Thompson, an AmeriCorps volunteer, has been hired to increase the outreach and education efforts of the Western Coalition for Abandoned Mine Reclamation by developing success stories and creating WPCAMR Video Diaries.

"Surrounded by black mountains and streams flowing of the most brilliant colors, I have spent my life living at the entrance of “Miller’s Shaft” in Portage, Pa," said Thompson. "Like many others in small Pennsylvania coal towns, much of my childhood was spent exploring the remains of old mine equipment, swimming in “sulfur creeks” and challenging the slopes of boney dumps. Growing up, the culture of a once booming industry has not only shaped my outlook on life but also helped define who I am as a person.

"I look forward to the relationship I will build with WPCAMR and the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Community as a whole. With that, I extend an invitation for you to contact me at any time and in any regards. As residents of an area rich in history, culture and biodiversity, it is our duty to bring more awareness to the coal region and its communities for hope of reclaiming the future!"

As a Graduate and now Board Member of the Portage Area School District, Thompson has a commitment to the area and its culture. He graduated from Saint Francis University in May of 2008 with a B.S. in Environmental Biology and has a background in secondary education. Over the last few years, he worked for the Portage Water Authority, Biology Education Internships, Home Healthcare Practice and the Pennsylvania West Nile Vector Control Program in Cambria County.

11/14/2008