The Shinnston News & Harrison County Journal has named Tom Rhine as March’s Citizen of the Month, a program sponsored by Dorsey Funeral Home in Shinnston – locally owned & operated.
By TRINA RUNNER
News & Journal Staff Writer
Lots of people run. They run to relieve stress. They run to lose weight. They run to enhance their moods. Tom Rhine has a different reason to run. He runs to increase awareness. With each step that hits the pavement, Rhine raises awareness of the benefits of the United Way. He believes so strongly in the cause that he started the Run One Day event in 2014, and for the last two years, he has dedicated himself to running for 24 consecutive hours for the cause.
Rhine tirelessly promotes the United Way and its causes in both his personal and professional life. He has served on the Community Impact Committee and Campaign Cabinet and was recently named as the Chair of Harrison County’s 2016-17 United Way Campaign Cabinet.
“Supporters are amazed at all the ways their donations are used locally to improve the lives of friends and neighbors,” said Rhine. “Whether it’s the Red Cross, Boy Scouts, the YMCA or one of a number of other United Way agencies, the impact is vital to our community.”
As a member of the Board of Directors of EmpowerrmentThrough Employment, Rhine has the opportunity to also empower adults with physical and mental disabilities. The organization provides training and job placement for the disabled, allowing him to directly impact their quality of life.
Rhine is also on the advisory committee for Fairmont State University and Pierpont Community and Technical College and recently won the Jefferson Award for his commitment to community service.
In addition to his love of family, Rhine also enjoys beekeeping and promotes conservation and global environmental stewardship.
“It is my passion to support causes that help end poverty, homelessness, violence and discrimination,” said Rhine, who is a Production Manager at Pratt & Whitney Engine Services in Bridgeport. “It is truly an honor to create change at both the individual and community level.”
