River council recognized as a ‘champion’

Citizens Bank of Rhode Island and NBC 10 last week named the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council as its 2007 third-quarter “Champion in Action” in the environment category.
The award comes with a $25,000 grant, and promises media coverage and extensive volunteer and promotional support, according to a joint news release from Citizens and NBC 10.
The council – whose mission it is to reclaim the Woonasquatucket River as a natural, historical recreational and economic resource for the state – was recognized by the program for several areas of its work, including:
• Reclaiming the river from years of neglect and pollution
• Conducting many environmental education and stewardship programs educating both adults and children
• Restoring and revitalizing more than 62 acres of abandoned property along the river.
“From North Smithfield to the Narragansett Bay, the Woonasquatucket River flows through Glocester, Smithfield, Johnston [and] North Providence and joins with the Providence River into the Bay,” said Lisa Churchville, president and general manager of NBC 10.
“The Watershed Council is committed to protecting this natural resource for all visitors who enjoy recreational activities in and around the river,” she continued. “We look forward to working with the council as a Champion in Action, learning more about its work and sharing its successes with our viewers.”

The Champions program was launched in 2002 – as a joint initiative of Citizens and NBC 10 – to recognize and support nonprofit organizations for their contributions to Rhode Island communities, according to the release. Winners are chosen every quarter in an array of categories.
The council will receive volunteer support from Citizens and NBC employees, exposure on both company Web sites and promotional support, including materials highlighting the council in all Citizens Bank branches and on its ATMs.
“This award is an amazing honor. With the support of dedicated partners like Citizens Bank and NBC10 and their colleague volunteers, this award recognizes the impact of the WRWC on the health of the Woonasquatucket River, and acknowledges the significance of environmental restoration and education on the quality of life in our communities,” said Jennifer Pereira, executive director of the WRWC.

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