The town of Ansted was among 10 recognized recently as Blueprint Communities by West Virginia Commerce Secretary Kelley Goes.

The presentation to Ansted was made as leadership teams from 10 communities concluded training to help them revitalize their hometowns in a sustainable manner.

Wrapping up months of training at the Tamarack Conference Center in Beckley were teams from Ansted, Fairmont-Southside, Gilmer County, McDowell County, Mullens, Ritchie County, St. Albans, Salem, Shinnston and Williamson.

These teams were part of the West Virginia Rising event hosted March 12 by Gov. Joe Manchin and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh at which the 10 communities were unveiled as program participants.

Localities were chosen for the Blueprint Communities initiative based on their ability to assemble a qualified leadership team representing diverse community interests and plan and implement successful revitalization projects.

“I know the entire state of West Virginia joins me in wholeheartedly congratulating these communities and their leaders on their outstanding accomplishments,” Manchin said. “Completion of Blueprint Communities training gives these communities a strong leg up in their quest to be the best they can be. Going forward, they will play a critical role in advancing West Virginia’s economic and cultural health as we remain Open for Business and create a climate of greater prosperity for all our people.”

Ansted joined Shinnston and Mullens in attaining Blueprint status.

Ansted received the Sustaining Promise Award: Designing Comprehensive Strategy, which is presented to the community that best builds on a foundation of local assets, incorporates multiple aspects of the community in its strategic plan and sets down specific goals, time lines and accountabilities for moving that plan forward.

Mullens received the Community Spirit Award: Engaging Citizens, bestowed upon the team that demonstrates a superior commitment to providing opportunities for its citizens to help shape a community plan and encourages new as well as current leadership.

Each Beacon Award winner receives $1,000 from FHLBank.