Friends of Coal

Friends of Coal is an advocacy group that functions in several states and works closely with state coal trade organizations.
It was founded in West Virginia by the coal industry as a countermeasure to grassroots environmental justice movements during the summer of 2002 over debates about legislation concerning weight limits on West Virginia highways for trucks carrying coal. It was brought to life after Warren Hylton, a coal operator, made a comment about how they should ask their friends for help. A marketing firm called Charles Ryan Associates helped create a backbone for the organization. It subsequently broadened its efforts to improve the image of the coal industry and to link the coal industry to the economic and social self-identity of people who live near coal mines. As part of the latter effort, it sponsors local events like car shows and sports events. Friends of Coal also strives to create jobs for upcoming generations.
Friends of Coal is controversial because of their pro-coal stance.
Activities.
Marshall University and West Virginia University played in a yearly football game sponsored by Friends of Coal and is known as the Friends of Coal Bowl, which has been discontinued since 2012. They sponsor car shows and have a license plate available for purchase by their members. They also provide academic scholarships for students who have a family member in the coal industry. These sponsorships are controversial, and the universities have been criticized for "selling out" to the coal industry. 
Friends of Coal: Ladies Auxiliary.
There is a sub-group from Friends of Coal known as Friends of Coal Ladies Auxiliary. It was founded in Beckley, West Virginia in 2009 by Regina Fairchild. It aims to help the coal industry, similarly to Friends of Coal, and also participates in charity work and military troop support.