SOPHIA, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A new mural honoring local first responders will be unveiled in Sophia on Thursday, June 12, 2025, as part of a community beautification and prevention initiative led by Raleigh County United for Prevention (Raleigh County UP).
The mural project, created in partnership with the Town of Sophia and American Eagle Outfitters, will be painted at the Sophia City Volunteer Fire Department at 201 Riffe Street beginning at 11:00 a.m. Artist Hannah Hughes-Moore designed the mural, and volunteers from American Eagle and Raleigh County UP will help bring the artwork to life.
Kellie Gunnoe, Executive Director of Raleigh County UP, emphasized the project’s connection to broader prevention efforts.
“When we improve the physical design of our communities, we’re creating spaces that help foster community pride and a sense of ownership,” Gunnoe said. “These changes, though they might seem small, play a meaningful role in supporting drug and alcohol prevention efforts across Raleigh County, which is really the goal of our organization.”
Founded in 2020, Raleigh County United for Prevention is a 501(c)(3) organization partially funded by federal grants. It focuses on community-level strategies to prevent substance use, particularly among youth.
The mural aims not only to honor those who serve but also to promote positive environmental change as part of the county’s ongoing efforts in substance use prevention.
