Educating the Community

A major manufacturer of electrical components with
plants in rural Pennsylvania accidentally contaminated
the groundwater at scores of sites.

The problem extended beyond just cleaning up the area.
The company needed a communications program that
would reach a wide range of audiences, from worried
residents to the Department of Environmental
Resources (DER).

On top of that, the client was publicity shy.

We convinced the client to attack the problem directly
to show good will, accept responsibility and ultimately
educate not only the public, but themselves about
protection of the environment.

A comprehensive program was developed, including
arranging for company personnel to meet with residents
and the creation of an environmental protection newsletter.

The result: a supportive community, extreme cooperation
from the DER and a story that remained local – a good
thing is this case.