Ad Council News/Press Releases

New York City Office of Emergency Management and Ad Council Kick Off National Preparedness Month

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:02:10 GMT

New Yorkers Invited to Audition for TV PSA at Brooklyn Borough Hall

NEW YORK, N.Y., September 02, 2010 - Office of Emergency Management (OEM) Commissioner Joseph F. Bruno, FEMA Deputy Administrator Richard Serino, Fire Department (FDNY) Commissioner Salvatore Cassano, Police Department (NYPD) Assistant Chief Harry J. Wedin, The Advertising Council Campaign Manager Jessica Dahl, American Red Cross in Greater New York Chief Administrative Officer Richard Kane, and Counsel to Brooklyn Borough President Jason Ota�o today kicked off National Preparedness Month by encouraging New Yorkers to audition for an upcoming TV public service advertisement (PSA). OEM and NYC TV set up a video booth at a preparedness fair at Brooklyn Borough Hall today, and will encourage passersby to share their thoughts about emergency preparedness on camera. Footage from the shoot will be used to create a series of local PSAs, which will be featured online later this month through OEM's website and YouTube page, and later this year in taxi cabs and on TV.

"All week OEM has been closely monitoring Hurricane Earl for its potential threat to New York City. Fortunately, it looks like we will not see any major rain and wind this time, but it's a great reminder of why it is so important to prepare for emergencies and why we are here today," said Commissioner Bruno. "Our Citizen Corps Council partners will be at locations across the five boroughs today to teach New Yorkers about the steps they should take to prepare for emergencies - get a kit, make a plan, get informed."

"The public truly is the most important part of the nation's emergency management team," said FEMA Deputy Administrator Rich Serino. "No matter how much FEMA and our state and local partners do to prepare, we can only be successful if people are doing the same at their homes, schools, and work. September is National Preparedness Month, and we need no more of a reminder of the importance of getting ready than Hurricane Earl and the tropical storms moving in the Atlantic as we speak. When people take steps to prepare, they do more than help themselves and their family - they also help relieve the burden on local first responders, making the entire community more safe and secure."

"Our members are trained to respond to any emergency, no matter what. But also it's important that people take steps to be prepared for the unexpected," said Commissioner Cassano. "After 40 years with the FDNY, I have seen many tragedies that could have been prevented by taking simple precautions. September is National Preparedness month, so we want to let all New Yorkers know: being prepared could save your life."

"The Police Department has taken a number of hurricane-related precautions, including the monitoring of highways and coastal areas that might be impacted by high water, in addition to the surveying of all commands to make certain backup generators are fueled and functional, and that 50 Jon boats assigned to precincts in flood prone areas are ready for deployment," said Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly.

"Emergencies can happen anywhere and any time," said American Red Cross in Greater New York Chief Administrative Officer, Richard Kane. "The Red Cross responds to an average of seven emergencies each day in Greater New York, and most of the people we help are not prepared. In an effort to practice what we preach, the Red Cross is currently preparing for the potential impact of Hurricane Earl as it heads up the East Coast. During Preparedness Month-and every month-we encourage all New Yorkers to take steps to be prepared before an emergency or disaster occurs."

In addition to the video booth set up at Brooklyn Borough Hall, volunteers from the New York City Citizen Corps Council are stationed at five sites around the city today to distribute literature and remind their fellow New Yorkers about the importance of preparing for emergencies. Locations include:

Brooklyn: Brooklyn Borough Hall
Bronx: The Hub (149th Street and 3rd Avenue)
Manhattan: Columbus Circle (59th Street and 8th Avenue, park side)
Queens: Flushing Library (Main Street and Kissena Boulevard)
Staten Island: Staten Island Ferry Terminal

In celebration of National Preparedness Month, OEM and the Ad Council today also launched a new Facebook application to help New Yorkers find a safe place to meet their families or friends during an emergency. Located on OEM's Facebook page, the new interactive web mapping application allows New Yorkers to select a meeting place from thousands of locations in the metropolitan area in advance of an emergency. Users can search for meeting places closest to their home or office addresses, such as schools, museums, libraries, senior centers, courthouses, post offices, or police or fire stations. Other options include choosing a meeting place between two addresses or choosing your own meeting place. After the meeting place is chosen, it can be shared via e-mail with those users who want to meet at the designated point in an emergency. Users will also be able to share their meeting place via text message in the coming months.

Another highlight of this National Preparedness Month celebration is a preparedness night at Citi Field on September 27 that will feature a Go Bag giveaway and a special series of videos with Mr. Met, the Mets' mascot. The Empire State Building will also be lit up in yellow (OEM's Ready New York City campaign color) Thursday night to remind New Yorkers about the importance of preparing for emergencies.

National Preparedness Month is a month-long, nationwide campaign, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, to promote emergency preparedness and encourage volunteerism. Each September, the New York City Citizen Corps Council organizes National Preparedness Month activities throughout the city by bringing together disaster relief and other volunteer organizations to distribute information at fairs, host demonstrations, and lead preparedness presentations.

During the rest of National Preparedness Month, OEM will highlight different steps toward preparedness each week:

September 5-11: Gather Emergency Supplies
September 12-18: Pick a Meeting Place
September 19-25: Stay Informed
September 26-30: Get Involved

According to OEM's 2010 survey, 40 percent of New Yorkers say they do not feel prepared for an emergency and 68 percent do not have all of the recommended emergency supplies in their homes. Additionally, only 21 percent of New Yorkers make use of real-time news alert features or applications; even though, the majority of residents stated a strong interest in receiving information about terrorist threats or incidents.

In an effort to further educate New Yorkers about the importance of preparedness, OEM and the Ad Council partnered to create the Ready New York City campaign in September 2009. The campaign includes TV, radio, print, outdoor, and web banners PSAs.

"We are proud to partner with Commissioner Bruno and OEM to continue to educate New Yorkers and their families on how to prepare for potential emergencies," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "By providing New Yorkers with access to interactive preparedness tools and resources we will empower them to not only choose their meeting places early, but show them how easy it is to prepare the necessary emergency supplies before a natural disaster occurs."

Since its launch in September 2009, media outlets have donated more than $4.9 million in media support.

For more information on the Ready New York City campaign, visit www.readynyc.org or call 311.

Contacts:

Chris Gilbride
OEM
(718) 422-4888

Lisa Cullen
Ad Council
(202) 331-5052
lcullen@adcouncil.org

The Department of State and Secretary Hillary Clinton Join the Ad Council to Launch PSAs to Support Victims of the Pakistan Floods

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:02:25 GMT

New PSAs Encourage all Americans to donate to the Pakistan Relief Fund

WASHINGTON, D.C., August 31, 2010 - Since the flooding in Pakistan began one month ago, more than 20 million people throughout the country have been affected. In an effort to help raise funds for relief, recovery and reconstruction efforts, the U.S. Government-through the Department of State-created the Pakistan Relief Fund (the Fund). In television and radio PSAs released by the Ad Council today, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton encourages all Americans to donate to the Fund, which will help those who are in need.

The number of people affected by the Pakistan flooding has exceeded the combined total of those who suffered during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the 2005 Pakistan earthquake and the 2010 Haiti earthquake. More than 1.2 million homes in Pakistan have been damaged or destroyed and approximately 800,000 people can only be reached by helicopters to gain access to food, water and other relief supplies. Every dollar makes a difference. Donating just $5 has the ability to buy 50 high energy bars providing much needed nutrition; $10 can provide water purification for 100 liters of clean drinking water; and about $40 can buy material to shelter a family of four.

The new PSAs, which include television and radio spots as well as Web banners, direct audiences to visit www.state.gov where they can donate to the Fund through a secure online donation page. Americans can also donate by text messaging the word "FLOOD" to 27722, which will charge $10 to their cell phone bill. Standard text messaging and data rates apply.

"The Pakistani people are friends and partners, and the U.S. is standing with them as the tragic human suffering from flooding continues," said Secretary Clinton. "Americans have always shown great generosity to people facing crises worldwide. I urge all Americans to join this effort and send much needed help to the people of Pakistan as they face substantial relief, recovery and reconstruction challenges. Financial contributions will go towards providing shelter materials, food, clean water, and medical supplies to those in need."
The Pakistan Relief Fund serves as a mechanism for the public to contribute money to the ongoing efforts in Pakistan. Contributions will go towards programs run by the Department of State and other federal agencies for relief, recovery and reconstruction efforts in Pakistan, or to provide funds to international organizations, non-profit organizations and other appropriate recipients for relief, recovery and reconstruction efforts in Pakistan.

The Ad Council is distributing the PSAs to media outlets nationwide today. Per the Ad Council's model, the PSA will run in advertising time and space that is donated by the media.

"We are proud to join with Secretary Clinton and the State Department on this critical effort to encourage Americans to provide support for those who have been devastated by the flooding in Pakistan," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "We believe the American media will generously support these PSAs-as they have in times of other global crises-and Americans throughout the country will be motivated to donate to the relief effort."

Several companies have donated production and digital distribution services for the new PSAs. Additionally, Getty Images donated images of the Pakistan floods that are featured in the television and Web ads.

For more information about the Pakistan Relief Fund, visit www.state.gov/pakistanrelief.

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer efforts from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public.

Contacts:

Ad Council Press Office
news@adcouncil.org

The Weather Channel Joins FEMA'S Ready Campaign and Ad Council to Encourage Americans to Prepare for Emergencies

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 09:22:30 GMT

PSAs Featuring TWC's Jim Cantore debut in advance of National Preparedness Month

WASHINGTON, D.C., August 31, 2010 - In a nationwide effort to encourage all Americans to take steps to prepare for possible emergencies, the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Ready Campaign and The Advertising Council have joined today with The Weather Channel� (TWC) to launch a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs). The PSAs are an extension of the national Ready PSA Campaign and will be distributed in advance of National Preparedness Month (NPM) in September.

"These PSAs provide another opportunity to reach Americans about the importance of preparedness," said Craig Fugate, FEMA Administrator. "While we closely monitor Hurricane Earl and other storms in the Atlantic, FEMA continues to remind the public to take steps now to prepare for severe weather and to help keep their family safe."

Created by TWC, the new television PSAs feature TWC's on-camera meteorologist Jim Cantore and a real family who lost their home to a natural disaster. Cantore encourages all Americans to follow the Ready Campaign's three simple steps to be prepared for emergencies: (1) Get an emergency supply kit; (2) Make a family emergency plan; and (3) Be informed about the types of emergencies that can happen in your area and their appropriate responses. The PSAs direct audiences to www.ready.gov and www.weather.com/ready respectively, where they will find preparedness information and resources. The ads will run on TWC and will be distributed to national, cable and local broadcast networks.

"Partnering with FEMA and the Ad Council on this issue is a perfect fit for The Weather Channel Companies, as it allows us to continue to spread the message on preparation for severe weather that we have been sharing for more than 25 years," said Mike Kelly, CEO and president, TWCC.

According to an August 2009 national Ad Council survey, 91 percent of Americans agree that taking simple steps to prepare for emergencies could help protect themselves and their families in the event of an emergency. However, only 58 percent have taken any steps to prepare. More than half of Americans (52 percent) say that they are not taking steps because they believe that they are unlikely to be personally affected by an emergency.

"Millions of households presently turn to The Weather Channel to learn about inclement weather conditions in their neighborhoods, so they are an ideal partner for the Ready Campaign," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "The ads serve as a reminder that now is the time to follow FEMA's three simple steps so that we are all prepared for a potential disaster."

This is the first time TWC has partnered with an Ad Council campaign, as well as aired Ad Council PSAs on their network. The Department of Homeland Security and the Ad Council first launched the Ready PSA Campaign in February 2003. The campaign is now managed under FEMA. Since its launch, the campaign has generated more than $844 million in donated media support, www.ready.gov, has received more than 2.6 billion visits, and more than 54.3 million Americans have downloaded the campaign's informational brochure. It has proven to be one of the most successful campaigns in Ad Council's 68-year history. The new PSAs will air in advertising time that will be entirely donated by the media.

Ready Campaign
February 2010 will mark the Ready Campaign's seventh year at the Department of Homeland Security. The campaign is now managed under the Department's Federal Emergency Management Agency. Launched in 2003 in partnership with The Advertising Council, Ready is designed to educate and empower Americans to prepare for and respond to emergencies, including natural and man-made disasters. It has proven to be one of the most successful campaigns in Ad Council's more than 68-year history. Since its launch, the Ready Campaign has generated more than $844 million in donated media support. Individuals interested in more information about family, business and community preparedness can visit www.ready.gov.

THE WEATHER CHANNEL COMPANIES
The Weather Channel Companies (TWCC) is made up of The Weather Channel television network, The Weather Channel digital properties, and Weather Services International (WSI). The Weather Channel� is based in Atlanta and is seen in more than 100 million U.S. households. TWC also operates Weatherscan, a 24-hour all-local weather network; The Weather Channel Radio Network; and The Weather Channel HD. The digital properties of TWC, which include the weather.com� site, The Weather Channel Desktop and The Weather Channel Mobile, reach more than 40 million unique users online each month and is the most popular source of online weather, news and information according to Nielsen//NetRatings. WSI, headquartered in Andover, MA, primarily provides business-to-business weather services, particularly for the media, aviation, marine and energy sectors. TWCC is owned by a consortium made up of NBC Universal and the private equity firms The Blackstone Group and Bain Capital. For more information, visit www.weather.com/press.

THE ADVERTISING COUNCIL
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:
FEMA Public Affairs
202-646-4600

The Weather Channel
David Blumenthal
770-226-2611
dblumenthal@weather.com

The Ad Council
Lisa Cullen
202-331-5052
lcullen@adcouncil.org

AOL's Tim Armstrong Elected as Chairman of the Ad Council

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 15:59:29 GMT

Armstrong joined by fourteen new board members

New York August 5, 2010 - The Advertising Council announced today that Tim Armstrong, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, AOL, has been elected as Chairman of the Board of Directors of The Advertising Council.

Mr. Armstrong has been a member of the Ad Council Board of Directors since 2008, most recently serving as its Vice Chairman. As Chairman, he succeeds Brian Perkins, Corporate Vice President, Johnson & Johnson, and will serve in this position for one year.

"Tim has been a valued member of our Board over the past two years and we are thrilled to have him as our new Chairman," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of The Advertising Council. "His considerable experience in online and social media will help us expand the reach and impact of our campaigns."

Tim Armstrong has been Chairman and CEO, AOL since April 2009. AOL is one of the largest global Internet brands with operations across North America, Europe, and Asia. AOL also owns a series of well-known brands such as MapQuest, Engadget, Moviefone, and Advertising.com. Tim Armstrong joined AOL from Google where he was President of The Americas Operations.

The Ad Council has an ongoing tradition of rotating Board Chairs between our founding sectors which include media companies, advertising agencies, and corporate advertisers. Tim will be succeeded by Vice Chair Andrew Robertson, President & CEO, BBDO in 2011, and the newly elected Vice Chair Marc Pritchard, Global Marketing Officer, The Procter & Gamble Company in 2012.

In addition, the Ad Council also elected fourteen new members to its Board of Directors. The new directors are:

Mark Addicks, VP & CMO, General Mills

Salman Amin, Global Head of Sales and Marketing, PepsiCo, Inc.

Nick Brien, CEO, McCann Worldgroup

David Christopher, CMO, AT&T Mobility

Mainardo de Nardis, CEO, OMD Worldwide

Rich Eigendorff, COO, MTV Corporation

Mike Kelly, President & CEO, The Weather Channel

Chris Moloney CMO, Experian Consumer Direct

Erin Nelson, SVP & CMO, Dell

Rob Norman, CEO, GroupM North America

John Seifert, North American Chairman, Ogilvy & Mather Worldwide

Mollie Spilman, SVP, Global B2B Marketing, Yahoo!

Tony Vinciquerra, Chairman & CEO, Fox Networks Group

David Zaslav, President & CEO, Discovery Communications

The Ad Council
The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer talent from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public. Having produced literally thousands of PSA campaigns addressing the most pressing social issues of the day, the Ad Council has effected, and continues to effect, tremendous positive change by raising awareness, inspiring action and saving lives.

Contact:
Beth Shanley
212-984-1923
bshanley@adcouncil.org

Norman Brokaw and the Ad Council named dual recipients of Academy of Television Arts & Sciences 2010 Governors Award

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 12:27:31 GMT

Winners to Be Honored at 2010 Creative Arts Emmy Awards on
Saturday, August 21st at the Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE

North Hollywood, CA - The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Board of Governors has voted to bestow two prestigious Governors Awards this year, one to Norman Brokaw Chairman Emeritus of WME and one to the Ad Council. Television Academy Chairman-CEO John Shaffner made the announcement today.

Created in 1978, the Governors Award salutes an individual, company or organization that has made a substantial impact and demonstrated the extraordinary use of television. The award will be presented to Norman Brokaw and to the Ad Council during the 2010 Creative Arts Emmy� Awards on Saturday, August 21st, at Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE. The Creative Arts Awards will be shown as a two-hour special on Friday August, 27 at 1pm on E! Entertainment.

"The Ad Council and Norman Brokaw's impact on the television industry for nearly 70 years make them both equally deserving of the Governors Award this year," Shaffner says. "Norman's extraordinary career achievements have helped shape the entertainment industry and its "best practices" rules of business. The Ad Council's cumulative years of unsurpassed public service reinforces the positive impact that the power of television can have on our society."

"Norman Brokaw like many of us started out in the mailroom at William Morris, but the difference is he came first and paved the way for the rest of us," said David Geffen. "He is a pioneer and a visionary and helped shaped the television industry. I can think of no one who is more deserving than Norman to receive the Governor's Award."

"On behalf of the Ad Council and all of our dedicated partners and supporters, we are so honored to receive this prestigious award," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "The Ad Council is the embodiment of the creativity and generosity of the advertising, media and corporate sectors in our country, and our work is a testament to the power of advertising to improve lives and impact social change in America."

Norman Brokaw's distinguished career has spanned the evolutions of entertainment. He began working for WME in l943, the very first trainee in the legendary mailroom that later became the launching ground for myriad stellar entertainment agents and executives. As an architect of the WME television department on the west coast, Brokaw guided a skeptical "big screen" Hollywood into the "small screen" business. He brought Loretta Young and other movie stars to television, creating new and lucrative opportunities for these players.

A long time figure in the motion picture business, Brokaw's star roster began with legendary greats like Young, Barbara Stanwyck, Susan Hayward and Ann Southern. Soon, newcomers were added to the list: Natalie Wood, Kim Novak and Marilyn Monroe. Clint Eastwood was a Brokaw signing whose talent, like Monroe's, has already passed the point of legend and into the sphere of cultural phenomenon.

In the seventies, Brokaw spearheaded WME's entry into the heretofore unexplored fields of sports, journalism and politics. The list of those represented in such areas include: presidents, international leaders, cabinet members, Olympic medalists, newscasters and sports stars. As an agent whose diversity stretches into every area of the entertainment world, there could be no greater pairing than that of Norman Brokaw and his client of over forty-seven years, Bill Cosby. Together this dynamic duo has scaled the heights of the literary, commercial, television, film and personal appearance arenas. From his first starring role in the groundbreaking "I Spy," to the billion dollar industry that has developed around "The Bill Cosby Show," Brokaw has co-designed and orchestrated Cosby's work to guarantee a pre-eminent position unchallenged by any twentieth century performer.

Among Mr. Brokaw's other clients are Priscilla Presley, Ivana Trump and Berry Gordy. He is a Life Trustee of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, has served on the board of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and is President of the Betty Ford Cancer Center. He is a longstanding member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

For nearly seventy years, the Ad Council, a private, non-profit organization, has been the leading producer of public service advertisements (PSAs) in the United States. Throughout its history, the organization has had a positive impact on generations of Americans, and its campaigns have mirrored and influenced the important social issues facing the country during the last seven decades. The Ad Council was founded in 1942 as The War Advertising Council shortly after the attacks on Pearl Harbor, and was charged with rallying support for World War II. Following the success of public service advertising campaigns including "Loose Lips Sink Ships" and "Rosie the Riveter," President Roosevelt asked the Ad Council to continue as a peacetime public service organization to address the social issues of the day. President Truman echoed that request when the war ended, and ever since, the Ad Council has been creating public service ads, many of which have become part of the American vernacular.

Today, the Ad Council's mission remains the same: to identify a select number of significant public issues and stimulate action on those issues through communications programs that make a measurable difference in society. Advertising agencies from across the nation create the ads pro bono and the PSAs are run in donated media time and space. The campaigns are developed in partnership with national non-profit organizations and federal government agencies. Each year, the Ad Council receives more than $1.5 billion in donated media time and space for its fifty national PSA campaigns.

Through public service advertising, the Ad Council has presented issues and ideas to Americans that were rarely, if ever, discussed openly. For example, it was the first organization to use the word "condom" when it did so in an AIDS Prevention advertisement in the 1980s. Other groundbreaking Ad Council campaigns have addressed topics such as domestic violence, child abuse and mental health. The Ad Council has created some of America's best-known icons, including The Crying Indian, Smokey Bear and McGruff the Crime Dog, as well as memorable slogans such as, "Friends Don't Let Friends Drive Drunk" and "A Mind is a Terrible Thing to Waste." Most importantly, Ad Council campaigns have produced measurable results. Addressing issues ranging from protecting the environment to education and drug prevention, the results of Ad Council campaigns prove the power of public service. For example, since Vince & Larry, the Crash Test Dummies, were introduced to the American public in 1985, seat belt usage has increased from 14% to 83%, the highest percentage in U.S. history. Today, Ad Council campaigns address issues including autism awareness, foreclosure prevention and obesity prevention (as part of First Lady Michelle Obama's "Let's Move" initiative). For more about the Ad Council and to view current and historical campaigns, visit www.adcouncil.org.

The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, founded in 1946 at the birth of the medium, is a non-profit organization devoted to the advancement of telecommunication arts, sciences and creative leadership. Known for recognizing outstanding programming through its Primetime Emmy� Awards, the Television Academy also publishes emmy magazine. Its charitable Foundation operates the Archive of American Television, College Television Awards, acclaimed student internships and other educational outreach programs. For more information on the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, its many industry-related programs and services, including year-round events, please visit www.emmys.tv.

Contact:
Chris DiIorio / Lauren McGee
PMK*BNC 310.854.4800

U.S. Department of The Treasury, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and The Ad Council Unveil National PSA Campaign to Raise Awareness of Making Home Affordable Program

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 09:20:34 GMT

Campaign features real homeowners that are among the over one million Americans who have benefited from the program

NEW YORK, NY July 28, 2010 - The Advertising Council, in partnership with the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), announced today the launch of a national public service advertising (PSA) campaign designed to encourage homeowners who are struggling with their monthly mortgage payments to learn about the Making Home Affordable Program. While over one million homeowners have already received assistance from the program, the national campaign encourages other struggling homeowners who may be eligible for assistance to reach out for the help they need through free resources made available by the Federal Government. The PSAs direct homeowners to visit MakingHomeAffordable.gov or call 1-888-995-HOPE (4673) to see if they may be eligible for assistance to make their mortgage payments more affordable and to understand options they may have to avoid foreclosure.

Created pro bono by The Kaplan Thaler Group, a New York-based advertising agency, the new campaign is available in English and Spanish and features real homeowners from across the country who have benefited from the program.

"Even though the economy is getting stronger, many Americans are still facing the fear and uncertainty of losing their home to foreclosure," said Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner. "The Administration's loan modification programs have given more than a million responsible homeowners a chance to stay in their homes, and we want to do all we can to help make sure that struggling homeowners know about these free resources for help."

"Many responsible borrowers continue to face challenges due to unemployment, negative equity or because of soaring utility payments," said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. "These public service announcements will help us to reach at-risk borrowers now, while they are still current on their payments and eligible to receive help through the Making Home Affordable Program or our expanded options for Federal Housing Administration (FHA) refinancing."

"We are pleased to be involved in this important effort to raise awareness of the Making Home Affordable Program," said Linda Kaplan Thaler, CEO and CCO of the Kaplan Thaler Group. "The 'I'm Home' campaign not only educates Americans about the helpful resources available to them through the Treasury and HUD, but also shares the compelling message of hope during a challenging time."

"We are proud to partner with the Treasury and HUD on this critical campaign to educate Americans about free resources available to help them prevent foreclosures," said Peggy Conlon, President and CEO, the Ad Council. "We hope Americans who are struggling will be empowered by these compelling PSAs and take simple actions to help them stay in their homes."

The Ad Council will distribute the new PSAs to more than 33,000 media outlets nationwide. The campaign includes television, radio, print, out of home and web advertising. The PSAs will air in advertising space donated by the media.

The Making Home Affordable Program was launched in February 2009 to help homeowners who are at risk of foreclosure through no fault of their own make their monthly mortgage payments more affordable. Since then, more than 1.5 million homeowners have been offered help under the program, and almost 1.3 million homeowners have started a trial plan. Homeowners in permanent modifications under the program have a median monthly savings of over $500 each month or about one-third of their previous payment.

Any homeowner who is struggling with their mortgage is encouraged to visit MakingHomeAffordable.gov or call 1-888-995-HOPE (4673) to learn about options they may have and to speak with a HUD-approved housing counselor for free.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contact:
Beth Shanley
The Ad Council
(212) 984-1923
bshanley@adcouncil.org

Treasury Public Affairs
(202) 622-2960

HUD Public Affairs
(202) 708-0980

Ad Council and The Library of Congress Launch New PSAs to Encourage Parents to Read with Their Children

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:02:56 GMT

Campaign Features Iconic Children's Literary Character Curious GeorgeT

NEW YORK, July 26, 2010 - The Advertising Council and the Library of Congress are launching a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs) to encourage parents to read with their children and inspire them to become lifelong learners.

Research conducted by Florida State University found that when parents become involved in their children's literacy practices, children improve in reading achievement, language comprehension and expressive language skills. Additionally, an overall increase in parental involvement in their child's reading makes children more willing to read. When parents and children read together, it also increases the frequency of a child's reading.

The new PSAs feature the iconic children's literary character Curious George. The television, print and outdoor advertisements feature George and his best friend and mentor, "The Man with the Yellow Hat," reading books together. These PSAs encourage parents to "Read to your child today and inspire a lifelong love of reading."

"There is no more important influence in instilling a lifelong love of reading in a child than his or her parent or caregiver," said Deanna Marcum, associate librarian for library services at the Library of Congress. "The Library of Congress is pleased to work with the Ad Council to champion such an important cause, which inspires curiosity and creativity in young people, who then grow up to become better informed and engaged citizens."

The new PSAs are launching to coincide with children's summer vacations. A study conducted by The Center for Evaluation, American Academy of Arts and Sciences, suggests that having elementary school students read four or five books during the summer can prevent the reading achievement losses that normally occur during those months.

"The new PSAs are so smart and entertaining for parents and children," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Advertising Council. "Curious George is a timeless character that both children and parents can relate to which makes reading together more enjoyable. The Ad Council truly values our relationship with the Library of Congress on this campaign and together we are dedicated to inspiring children to become lifelong learners through reading."

The campaign, created in partnership with Universal Partnerships & Licensing and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company encourages parents and kids to visit www.Read.gov as a source for discovery, learning, family fun, and to experience the joy of reading.

"As one of literature's most beloved characters, Curious George has a powerful ability to link generations," said President of Universal Pictures Partnerships & Licensing Stephanie Sperber. "Universal is thrilled that the Library of Congress and the Ad Council have selected Curious George to promote and inspire the love of reading for children and parents everywhere through this important initiative."

The "Curious George" effort is supplemental to an existing tween-targeted campaign originally launched in 2000 that aims to inspire young readers to become lifelong readers. The objective of the campaign is to inspire fun and promote literacy in all types of learning. From books to magazines to comics, and in all its other forms, reading gives kids an opportunity to explore their imaginations, and "Explore New Worlds."

The PSAs also direct tweens to a website that features the Library of Congress's serialized story The Exquisite Corpse Adventure. The adventure is written by many well-known children's authors-some of which include Jon Scieszka and Kate DiCamillo, in the form of an "exquisite corpse." Each author tells part of the story for two weeks before the story is given to a different author. A new episode is published every two weeks for a year. Each episode also features the work of award-winning children's illustrators. Between episodes, kids are encouraged to play The Exquisite Corpse Brain Game where they are tested on what they have read in the past and predict what will happen in the future.

About Curious George
Curious George was published by Houghton Mifflin in 1941 and for 70 years he has been capturing the hearts and minds of readers young and old throughout the world. All the Curious George books, including the seven original stories by Margret and Hans Rey, have sold over 60 million copies. So popular that his original story has never been out of print, George has become one of the most beloved and most recognizable characters from children's literature. In addition to the numerous books about his mischievous adventures, Curious George stars in the Emmy-award winning PBS KIDS television series Curious George and has also starred in two full-length movies, Curious George and Curious George 2: Follow that Monkey! For more information, visit www.curiousgeorge.com

Library of Congress
The Library's mission is to make its resources available and useful to the Congress and the American people and to sustain and preserve a universal collection of knowledge and creativity for future generations. The Library serves as the research arm of Congress and is recognized as the national library of the United States. Its collections comprise the world's most comprehensive record of human creativity and knowledge. Open to those above high school age without charge or special permission, it is the world's largest library and a great resource to scholars and researchers.

Universal Partnerships & Licensing
UP&L oversees Universal's consumer product licensing, film and home entertainment promotions, and all corporate alliances for Universal's theatrical, home entertainment, theme parks and stage productions. This dedicated division is also responsible for monetizing the Studio's vast library of films and characters through licensing, branding and marketing opportunities. UP&L is part of NBC Universal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. Formed in May 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi Universal Entertainment, NBC Universal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, and world-renowned theme parks. NBC Universal is 80%-owned by General Electric, with 20% owned by Vivendi.

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company
Boston-based Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company is a global education leader and the world's largest publisher of educational materials for pre-K-12 schools. The Company publishes a comprehensive set of best-in-class educational solutions, ranging from research-based textbook programs to instructional technology to standards-based assessments for students and educators. The Company also publishes an extensive line of reference works and award-winning literature for adults and young readers. With origins dating back to 1832, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt combines its tradition of excellence with a commitment to innovation. To learn more about Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, visit www.hmhpub.com.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer talent from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public. Having produced literally thousands of PSA campaigns addressing the most pressing social issues of the day, the Ad Council has affected, and continues to affect, tremendous positive change by raising awareness, inspiring action and saving lives. To learn more about the Ad Council and its campaigns, visit www.adcouncil.org.

Curious George and related characters, created by Margret and H.A. Rey, are copyrighted and trademarked by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company and used under license. Licensed by Universal Studios Licensing LLLP. Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.

Contacts:
Ad Council:
news@adcouncil.org

NBCU:
Ryan Moore
818.777.3462
ryan.moore@nbcuni.com

Library of Congress:
Matthew Raymond
202.707.0020
mray@loc.gov

President Obama Commemorates 20th Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities Act

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 11:13:19 GMT

New Ad Council TV and Radio PSAs Feature President Obama Discussing the Act's Progress and Encouraging the Public to do more to Support Americans Living with Disabilities

To coincide with the twentieth anniversary of the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) today, President Obama is joining the Ad Council and the American Association of People with Disabilities to launch a new series of television and radio public service advertisements (PSAs). The ads, which feature the President, celebrate the progress that has been made during the last two decades and remind the public that there is still a lot of work to do so that all Americans have equal opportunity and full participation in this country. The Ad Council is distributing the PSAs to media outlets nationwide today.

Approximately one in six Americans - nearly 50 million people - is living with disabilities. The ADA signed into law July 26, 1990 by President George H.W. Bush, gives civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities similar to those provided to individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion. It guarantees equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities in public accommodations, employment, transportation, state and local government services and telecommunications.

The majority of people with disabilities perceive significant improvements in public facility access, personal quality of life and public attitudes since the passing of the ADA. However, obtaining employment remains difficult for people with visible and severe disabilities and disparities still exist in access to health insurance, health care and financial assets for people with disabilities, as compared to people without disabilities.

"The Act was a huge step forward for the 50 million people in this country living with a disability. It helped renew the promise that, here in America, we are defined not by our limitations, but by our potential," said President Obama. "As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of this historic legislation, it's important to remember that we are still fulfilling that promise."

In the new television and radio PSAs, President Obama communicates the importance of the ADA and urges all Americans to visit www.disability.gov to see how they can help support those living with disabilities. The PSAs were created pro bono by Proof Integrated Communications in New York. The television and radio spots will air in advertising time that will be donated by stations throughout the country.

"We are honored to join President Obama and the American Association of People with Disabilities to commemorate the 20th anniversary of this landmark law and the positive impact it has had on millions of Americans living with disabilities," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council.

"AAPD is delighted that the President of the United States and the Ad Council are helping to advance the goals of the Americans with Disabilities Act through this groundbreaking and historic PSA," said Andrew J. Imparato, President and CEO of AAPD.

AAPD (www.aapd.com)
The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), the country's largest cross-disability membership organization, organizes the disability community to be a powerful voice for change - politically, economically, and socially. AAPD was founded in 1995 to help unite the diverse community of people with disabilities, including their family, friends and supporters, and to be a national voice for change in implementing the goals of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The Advertising Council (www.adcouncil.org)
The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Ad Council to Honor Comcast Chairman and CEO Brian L. Roberts with 57th Annual Public Service Award

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 10:02:23 GMT

NEW YORK/PRNewswire/ - The Advertising Council will honor Brian L. Roberts, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Comcast Corporation, with its 57th Annual Public Service Award at the Ad Council's annual dinner to be held on November 17 at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City.

Attended by prominent members of the media, advertising and corporate communities, the dinner serves as a tribute to the industries and individuals who support the Ad Council and its public service advertising (PSA) campaigns. Chaired by Tim Armstrong, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of AOL, and Chair of the Ad Council, the dinner is the Ad Council's largest fundraising event, raising $2.4 million last year. Platinum sponsors will include Time Warner Inc. and Yahoo! Inc.

The Ad Council has been honoring corporate leaders for their commitment to public service since 1953. Previous honorees include Jeffrey Immelt, Dick Parsons, Bill Weldon, Ken Chenault, Bob Wright, Frank Bennack, Ted Turner, Katharine Graham and A.G. Lafley. In keeping with tradition, this year's award will be presented by last year's recipient, Muhtar Kent, Chairman and CEO, The Coca-Cola Company.

As Chairman and CEO of Comcast Corporation, Brian Roberts has continued and expanded the company's commitment to public service, providing significant contributions to many social issues and supporting many of the Ad Council's fifty public service campaigns through donated media on Comcast cable systems as well as their national and regional cable network properties. Comcast also supports initiatives in the areas of mentoring, community involvement and providing educational opportunities for children throughout the U.S. Comcast has been providing financial support to the Ad Council since 1988 and the company has been among the Ad Council's top supporters in donated media for more than five years.

"For nearly 60 years, the Ad Council has been honoring corporate leaders who are willing to look beyond their company's bottom line and reach out to help their communities and the nation," according to Peggy Conlon, president & CEO, The Advertising Council. "Through his distinguished career at Comcast, Brian has displayed a longstanding commitment to philanthropy, particularly in the areas of education and community service, and he is incredibly deserving of this honor."

The Ad Council is a non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer talent from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public. Having produced literally thousands of PSA campaigns addressing the most pressing social issues of the day, the Ad Council has effected, and continues to effect, tremendous positive change by raising awareness, inspiring action and saving lives. To learn more about the Ad Council and its campaigns, visit www.adcouncil.org.

TICKETS: Reservations for tables and individual tickets to the event may be arranged through Jessica Wolin at 212-984-1942 or by e-mail through jwolin@adcouncil.org.

PRESS: Ellyn Fisher, The Ad Council, 212-984-1964, efisher@adcouncil.org.

MLB and MLB Players Association team up with White House and Ad Council to educate families and children about nutrition and physical fitness

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 11:08:04 GMT

First Lady Michelle Obama Joins Baltimore Orioles and Tampa Bay Rays Players to Host Clinic at Oriole Park at Camden Yards

Major Leaguers from Each of the 30 Clubs Featured in PSA Campaign

Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) are teaming up with the White House, the Ad Council and First Lady Michelle Obama in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), to support Let's Move!, a campaign started by the First Lady with the goal of solving the challenge of childhood obesity so America's youngest children will reach adulthood at a healthy weight.

The First Lady announced the new relationship at Oriole Park at Camden Yards prior to a baseball skills clinic conducted by members of the Baltimore Orioles and Tampa Bay Rays for a group of young people participating in local Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) and Boys & Girls Clubs of America programs.

In addition, the First Lady spoke to the young people about making healthy choices as it relates to nutrition and physical fitness.

Major League Baseball, the Major League Baseball Player Association, USDA and the Ad Council, the leading producer of public service advertisements (PSAs) in the United States, have produced 30 television and 30 radio PSAs (one of each from each Club) with a different Major Leaguer featured in each spot. The spots, which have been created pro bono by volunteer advertising agency McCann Erickson New York, will begin airing tonight with the debut of the PSA featuring Matt Wieters, catcher of the Baltimore Orioles. New York Yankees outfielder Curtis Granderson will be the national spokesperson for the program.

The television and radio PSAs will roll out throughout the remainder of the season in ballparks around the country and Toronto, Canada; on MLB Network; online at MLB.com, the official website of Major League Baseball; and will be distributed to media outlets nationwide this summer by the Ad Council. Per the Ad Council's model, the PSAs will air in advertising time donated by the media.

Below are players featured in the PSAs:
Arizona Diamondbacks - Dan Haren
Atlanta Braves - Jason Heyward
Baltimore Orioles - Matt Wieters
Boston Red Sox - Kevin Youkilis
Chicago Cubs - Xavier Nady
Chicago White Sox - Paul Konerko
Cincinnati Reds - Joey Votto
Cleveland Indians - Travis Hafner
Colorado Rockies - Carlos Gonzalez
Detroit Tigers - Justin Verlander
Florida Marlins - Josh Johnson
Houston Astros - Jason Castro
Kansas City Royals - Billy Butler
LA Angels of Anaheim - Joel Pi�eiro
LA Dodgers - Jamey Carroll
Milwaukee Brewers - Ryan Braun
Minnesota Twins - Justin Morneau
New York Mets - Jeff Francoeur
New York Yankees - Curtis Granderson
Oakland Athletics - Kurt Suzuki
Philadelphia Phillies - Greg Dobbs & Brad Lidge
Pittsburgh Pirates - Andrew McCutchen
St. Louis Cardinals - Adam Wainwright
San Diego Padres - David Eckstein
San Francisco Giants - Matt Cain
Seattle Mariners - Garrett Olson
Tampa Bay Rays - Matt Garza
Texas Rangers - David Murphy
Toronto Blue Jays - Adam Lind
Washington Nationals - Adam Dunn

"Major League Baseball's RBI program and their support of Boys and Girls Clubs around the country have helped millions of kids lead happier, healthier more active lives," said First Lady Michelle Obama. "Through these important public service announcements, we will reach even more kids and families about the need for better nutrition and increased physical activity, and I want to thank MLB and the Players Association for their commitment to the Let's Move! campaign."

"Major League Baseball is pleased to support this vitally important campaign for the young people in our country," said Baseball Commissioner Allan H. (Bud) Selig. "The health and welfare of the country's youth is a top priority for Major League Baseball. I applaud the First Lady for her leadership in this effort and continue to pledge our dedication towards fighting childhood obesity."

"On behalf of all Major Leaguers, the Players Association is honored to join the First Lady and Major League Baseball in this effort to inspire youth to lead healthy lifestyles," said MLBPA Executive Director Michael Weiner. "Staying in shape is vital to the on-field success of a ballplayer, and Major Leaguers are eager to help young people lead active and healthy lives."

Let's Move! cultivates the appreciation of nutritious food and inspires kids to engage in physical activity. It empowers parents and caregivers by emphasizing their role in making healthy choices for children and stresses the importance of access to nutritious foods in schools and communities. Let's Move! was launched in February 2010 in partnership with the USDA, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the President's Council on Physical Fitness, Sports and Nutrition and other members of the White House Task Force on Childhood Obesity. Let's Move! is a continuation of White House efforts to unite and inspire families to take real and sustained actions to eat better, be more active and make a commitment to embracing healthier lifestyles. The new PSAs unveiled today are part of a larger Let's Move! public education campaign managed by the Ad Council, in partnership with the USDA and HHS.

Contact:
Major League Baseball
Matt Bourne/Steve Arocho
(212) 931-7878

Major League Baseball Players Association
Greg Bouris
(212) 826-0808

Ad Council and Dollar General Literacy Foundation Launch Campaign to Encourage Young Adults to Achieve their GED� Diploma

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 11:19:30 GMT

According to the US Census Bureau, more than 35.7 million adults ages 18-64 do not have a high school diploma

New York, July 12, 2010- The Advertising Council and the Dollar General Literacy Foundation joined today to launch a national public service advertising (PSA) campaign designed to provide high school dropouts with access to information that will get them started on the road to a GED Diploma.

According to the US Census Bureau, more than 35.7 million adults ages 18-64 do not have a high school diploma. Data shows that students who drop out of high school tend to earn less, perform less well in society, and have a lower quality of life. Many of them must work multiple jobs just to support their family. Moreover, in 2005, 21% of families without a high school diploma were living below the poverty line, compared to 7.1% of those with high school diplomas.

"As a longtime supporter of literacy and education, the Dollar General Literacy Foundation strongly believes that furthering one's education can improve lives for generations to come," said Cal Turner, Chairman of the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. "The Foundation is enthusiastic about the potential impact of this campaign. Our goal is to inspire potential GED candidates and make it easy for people from all walks of life to access local resources that will help them begin their journey to a brighter future through a GED."

Created pro bono by DDB Chicago, the campaign includes television, radio, print, outdoor and online ads available in English and Spanish. The PSAs aim to reach men and women in their mid to late 20's who are high school dropouts. The ads illustrate to these young adults that achieving their GED Diploma gives them access to more possibilities in life - further education, better positions, and more confidence in themselves.

Grammy award winning country singer/songwriter Gretchen Wilson, a campaign spokesperson, dropped out of high school at the age of 15 and received her GED nearly 20 years later at the age of 34. She has since become an advocate to help spotlight the funding needs of adult education programs and the adults on waiting lists hoping to further their education. She spoke to a Congressional subcommittee in the spring of 2009 about the need for continued funding. She was honored with a 2009 National Coalition for Literacy Leadership Award at a reception at the Library of Congress, which recognizes individuals and/or organizations that have made extraordinary contributions to improving literacy and raising awareness of adult literacy in the United States.

"People need the right tools to succeed, and, at the very minimum, a major tool on the road to success is a high school diploma or GED," said Wilson. "This campaign will go a long way toward educating people on how to take that first step to make a difference in their lives and the lives of their families, and I'm honored to be a part of it."

"We are excited to partner with Gretchen Wilson and Dollar General Literacy Foundation on this engaging and important campaign," according to Peggy Conlon, President and CEO of The Advertising Council. "Research has shown that adults without a GED Diploma get the lowest paid and the least stable jobs. One of our missions is to ensure that all Americans have the opportunity to achieve their full potential in life. I am confident these PSAs will give them the encouragement and resources to get them started on achieving their GED."

The campaign shows viewers that "You can take the first step" and directs them to a toll free number 877-38-YOURGED and a new website, www.yourged.org, available in English and Spanish. The site provides visitors with free referrals to local GED programs and information on the GED Diploma process. The campaign also has a mobile component. Young adults can text 69222 from their cell phones and receive messages about the three literacy centers closest to them.

"We're excited about the work we created with the Ad Council and Dollar General Literacy Foundation. When you understand some of the reasons for dropping out of high school, it is truly rewarding to let people know they have a second chance and their life can be changed by earning a GED" said Rick Carpenter, President & CEO of DDB Chicago.

Per the Ad Council model, the PSAs will be distributed to media outlets nationwide this week and will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation
The Dollar General Literacy Foundation's commitment to literacy is an integral part of the company's culture. In fact, Dollar General's co-founder, J. L. Turner, was functionally illiterate when he started the company. Dollar General believes learning to read, receiving your GED or learning the English language is an investment that opens doorways for personal, professional and economic growth.

DDB Chicago
DDB Worldwide Communications Group Inc (www.ddb.com) is the largest consolidated advertising and marketing services global network, according to Advertising Age. DDB has also been frequently ranked as the most awarded agency network in the world by Creativity magazine and The Gunn Report. In 2009 DDB was named Global Network of the Year by Campaign magazine and Tribal DDB Digital Agency of the Year by Media. 2006. In 2007 Tribal DDB was named Global Agency Network of the year by Ad Age. With more than 200 offices in over 90 countries, the DDB Group believes that creativity is the most powerful force in business, building enduring and powerful brand experiences that create TalkValueT, influence social communities and drive results. DDB is part of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE:OMC).

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

GED� and GED Testing Service� are registered trademarks of the American Council on Education and may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of the American Council on Education.

CONTACT:
Dollar General Literacy Foundation
Tawn Earnest
tearnest@dollargeneral.com

The Ad Council
Beth Shanley
bshanley@adcouncil.org

DDB Chicago
Mia Sissac
mia.sissac@chi.ddb.com

SAMHSA and the Ad Council Launch National Campaign to Raise Awareness about Mental Health Problems in Chinese American Communities

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 12:05:18 GMT

1 in 6 Chinese American Young Adults Experienced Serious Psychological Distress in the Past Year

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in collaboration with The Advertising Council, announced today the launch of a national public service advertising (PSA) campaign to promote recovery from mental health problems within the Chinese American community by educating and inspiring young adults to talk openly about issues of mental health. The culturally-targeted PSAs seek to motivate societal change towards social acceptance and decrease negative attitudes that may surround mental illness. These PSAs are part of a larger multicultural public service effort designed to reach Chinese American, American Indian, Hispanic/Latino and African American communities during National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month.

Mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, are widespread in the U.S. According to SAMHSA, from 2004 to 2007, an average of 16.2 percent of Chinese American 18-25 year olds reported serious psychological distress in the past year. Despite the high prevalence among this group, only one in nine (11.2 percent) Asian American young adults with serious psychological distress received care within the past 12 months. Overall the rates at which racial and ethnic minority young adults seek treatment are much lower than their Caucasian counterparts.

"Raising awareness that effective treatments for mental illnesses are available and that people recover, can encourage those in need to seek help," said SAMHSA Administrator Pamela S. Hyde, J.D. "This outreach to the Chinese American community will help open dialogue about supporting friends or family members with mental health problems in a culturally relevant way."

Created by Asian American advertising agency Kang & Lee through the Ad Council, the new, in-language live read radio, print and Web banner PSAs direct young adults to visit the campaign Web site, www.whatadifference.samhsa.gov/Chinese, where they can learn about mental illnesses, find tools to help support a friend in the recovery process, and seek out additional resources.

"We are proud to continue our work with SAMHSA to broaden our campaign for mental health recovery into the Chinese American community," said Peggy Conlon, president & CEO of the Ad Council. "This multicultural advertising effort will help decrease the stereotypes surrounding mental illnesses while providing young adults with the resources they need to support their friends living with mental health problems."

A brochure entitled, "Your support is the most precious gift you can give," is also a part of the campaign and is designed to provide tools and resources to help young adults support a friend who is living with a mental health problem in the recovery process. An electronic version of the brochure can be downloaded at www.whatadifference.samhsa.gov/Chinese.

"Raising mental health awareness in the Chinese community is long overdue," said Cynthia Park, President of Kang & Lee Advertising. "It is essential that attention is given to such initiatives in order to educate the public for the welfare and well-being of the community."

The Ad Council and SAMHSA first launched the Campaign for Mental Health Recovery nationwide in December 2006. To view the ads, please visit www.adcouncil.org. The PSAs will air in advertising time that will be entirely donated by the media.

SAMHSA is a public health agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. Its mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America's communities. (www.samhsa.gov)

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contact:
Ad Council Press Office
news@adcouncil.org

SAMHSA Press Office
240-276-2130

SAMHSA and the Ad Council Launch National Campaign to Raise Awareness about Mental Health Problems in American Indian Communities

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 12:02:55 GMT

1 in 5 American Indian Young Adults Experienced Serious Psychological Distress in the Past Year

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in collaboration with The Advertising Council, announced today the launch of a national public service advertising (PSA) campaign to promote recovery from mental health problems within the American Indian community by educating and inspiring young adults to talk openly about issues of mental health. The culturally-targeted PSAs seek to motivate societal change towards social acceptance and decrease negative attitudes that may surround mental illness. These PSAs are part of a larger multicultural public service effort designed to reach American Indian, Hispanic/Latino, Chinese American and African American communities during National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month.

Mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, are widespread in the U.S. According to SAMHSA, from 2004 to 2007, an average of 20.7 percent of American Indian 18-25 year olds reported serious psychological distress in the past year. Despite the high prevalence, only one in three (30.6 percent) American Indian adults with serious psychological distress received care within the past 12 months. Overall the rates at which racial and ethnic minority young adults seek treatment are much lower than their Caucasian counterparts.

"Raising awareness that effective treatments for mental illnesses are available and that people recover, can encourage those in need to seek help," said SAMHSA Administrator Pamela S. Hyde, J.D. "This outreach to the American Indian community will help open dialogue about supporting friends or family members with mental health problems in a culturally relevant way."

Created by American Indian advertising agency G&G Advertising through the Ad Council, the new radio, print and Web banner PSAs direct young adults to visit the campaign website, www.whatadifference.samhsa.gov/Native, where they can learn about mental illnesses, find tools to help support a friend in the recovery process, and seek out additional resources.

"We are proud to continue our work with SAMHSA to broaden our campaign for mental health recovery into the American Indian community,." " said Peggy Conlon, president & CEO of the Ad Council. "This multicultural advertising effort will help decrease the stereotypes surrounding mental illnesses while providing young adults with the resources they need to support their friends living with mental health problems."

A brochure titled, "What a difference a friend makes," is also a part of the campaign and is designed to provide tools and resources to help young adults support a friend who is living with a mental health problem in the recovery process. An electronic version of the brochure can be downloaded at www.whatadifference.samhsa.gov/Native.

"We were honored to work on such an important campaign and are very proud of SAMHSA and the Ad Council for including the American Indian target in this campaign." Michael Gray, President/Creative Director, G&G, said. "We are confident that the PSAs will make a difference in American Indian communities and encourage friends to support one another."

The Ad Council and SAMHSA first launched the Campaign for Mental Health Recovery nationwide in December 2006. To view the ads, please visit www.adcouncil.org. The PSAs will air in advertising time that will be entirely donated by the media.

SAMHSA is a public health agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. Its mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America's communities. (www.samhsa.gov)

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:
Ad Council Press Office
news@adcouncil.org

SAMHSA Press Office
240-276-2130

SAMHSA and the Ad Council Launch National Campaign to Raise Awareness about Mental Health Problems in Hispanic/Latino Communities

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 11:59:56 GMT

1 in 7 Hispanic/Latino Young Adults Experienced Serious Psychological Distress in the Past Year

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in collaboration with The Advertising Council, announced today the launch of a national public service advertising (PSA) campaign to promote recovery from mental health problems within the Hispanic/Latino community by educating and inspiring young adults to talk openly about issues of mental health. The culturally-targeted PSAs seek to motivate societal change towards social acceptance and decrease negative attitudes that may surround mental illness. These PSAs are part of a larger multicultural public service effort designed to reach Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Chinese American and African American communities during National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month.

Mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, are widespread in the U.S. According to SAMHSA, from 2004 to 2007, an average of 15.6 percent of Hispanic/Latino 18-25 year olds reported serious psychological distress in the past year. Despite the high prevalence among this group, only slightly more than one in four (28.3 percent) of Hispanic/Latino young adults with serious psychological distress received care within the past 12 months. Overall the rates at which racial and ethnic minority young adults seek treatment are much lower than their Caucasian counterparts.

"Raising awareness that effective treatments for mental illnesses are available and that people recover, can encourage those in need to seek help," said SAMHSA Administrator Pamela S. Hyde, J.D. "This outreach to the Hispanic community will help open dialogue about supporting friends or family members with mental health problems in a culturally relevant way."

Created by Hispanic/Latino advertising agency Wing through the Ad Council, the new "Accept/Ignore" PSA campaign includes in-language radio, print, outdoor and Web banner ads, and directs young adults to visit the campaign Web site, www.aceptarignorar.samhsa.gov, where they can find tools to help support a friend in the recovery process and seek out additional resources.

"We are proud to continue our work with SAMHSA to broaden our campaign for mental health recovery into the Hispanic community," said Peggy Conlon, president & CEO of the Ad Council. "This multicultural advertising effort will help decrease the stereotypes surrounding mental illnesses while providing young adults with the resources they need to support their friends living with mental health problems."

Alain Groenendaal, president and CEO of Wing added, "For many Latinos, their immediate social network is very important to them and they use technology to enhance their connection to friends and family. By channeling a social media platform which is very familiar to them, we're able to speak to young Hispanics directly. We're delighted to partner with the Ad Council and SAMHSA to extend a message of acceptance throughout the Hispanic community."

The Ad Council and SAMHSA first launched the Campaign for Mental Health Recovery nationwide in December 2006. To view the ads, please visit www.adcouncil.org. The PSAs will air in advertising time that will be entirely donated by the media.

SAMHSA is a public health agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. Its mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America's communities. (www.samhsa.gov)

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:
Ad Council Press Office
news@adcouncil.org

SAMHSA Press Office
240-276-2130

The Advertising Council and Autism Speaks Launch New PSAs to Raise Awareness of Autism

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 10:59:06 GMT

NEW YORK, July 7, 2010 - The Advertising Council, in partnership with Autism Speaks, North America's largest autism science and advocacy organization, announced today the launch of a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to raise awareness about autism and to empower parents to take action if their child is not meeting certain developmental milestones.

According to the CDC, autism is the fastest-growing developmental disorder in the United States, with life-long consequences for individuals, families, and society. Today, 1 in 110 children - including 1 in 70 boys - is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, a 600 percent increase in the past 20 years. This complex brain disorder affects a person's communication, behavior and social interaction. Despite the growing prevalence, research shows that many parents of young children have very little knowledge about autism.

"This multi-year campaign has been remarkably effective, elevating awareness of the growing prevalence of autism and the importance of early diagnosis and intervention to ever-increasing levels," said Bob and Suzanne Wright, Co-founders of Autism Speaks. "Our partnership with the Ad Council has far exceeded every expectation, and we remain indebted to them for their ongoing commitment to this cause."

Created pro bono by BBDO New York, the new, multi-media campaign, which includes English and Spanish-language television, radio and print PSAs, as well as English-language outdoor and Web ads, features a real family living with autism and illustrates the startling odds of having a child diagnosed with the disorder. The television PSA was directed by Oscar nominated director Lasse Halstrom who is behind Hollywood films such as What's Eating Gilbert Grape, Cider House Rules, Chocolat and, most recently, Dear John. Audiences are encouraged to visit www.autismspeaks.org to learn the signs of autism and to find out about early intervention.

"While there isn't a cure for autism and no effective means to prevent it, research shows that early detection and intervention can result in critical improvements for many young children," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of The Advertising Council. "I am confident that these new PSAs will increase parents' knowledge about the prevalence of autism."

"Because of the big increase of people on the autism spectrum, autism itself is getting closer to home," said Ronald Ng, Executive Creative Director, BBDO New York. "It is no longer someone in your distant friend circle; it is becoming a reality within your peers, and even your own family."

According to Ad Council tracking surveys, as a result of the initial campaign, which launched in 2006, 20 percent more parents say they are hearing more about autism than they were a year ago. Additionally, the proportion of parents who believe that autism is very or somewhat common rose significantly from 45 percent to 68 percent.

The new television, radio, print, outdoor, and web banner PSAs are being distributed to more than 33,000 media outlets nationwide this week. Per the Ad Council model, the PSAs will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media.

Autism Speaks
Since its inception in 2005, Autism Speaks has committed over $142.5 million to research through 2014 and developed innovative new resources for families. The organization is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. In addition to funding research, Autism Speaks also supports the Autism Treatment Network, Autism Genetic Resource Exchange and several other scientific and clinical programs. Notable awareness initiatives include the establishment of the annual United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 and an award-winning "Learn the Signs" campaign with the Ad Council which has received over $210 million in donated media. Autism Speaks' family resources include the Autism Video Glossary, a 100 Day Kit for newly-diagnosed families, a School Community Tool Kit and a community grant program. Autism Speaks has played a critical role in securing federal legislation to advance the government's response to autism, and has successfully advocated for insurance reform to cover behavioral treatments. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are held in more than 80 cities across North America. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit www.autismspeaks.org.

Autism Speaks was founded by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Bob Wright is Senior Advisor at Lee Equity Partners, Chairman and CEO of the Palm Beach Civic Association and served as vice chairman, General Electric, and chief executive officer of NBC and NBC Universal for more than twenty years.

BBDO New York
BBDO New York is part of BBDO Worldwide, an agency network of 15,000 people in 287 offices in 79 countries who work day by day, campaign by campaign, and client by client, to create and deliver the world's most compelling commercial content. BBDO is currently Network of the Year at Cannes, the world's most awarded agency network in The Gunn Report, and the most awarded global agency network across every marketing communications discipline in The Big Won report. BBDO is part of Omnicom Group Inc (NYSE: OMC) (www.omnicomgroup.com), a leading global marketing and corporate communications company.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:
Beth Shanley
The Ad Council
212-984-1923
bshanley@adcouncil.org

Dana Marnane
Autism Speaks
212-252-8540
dmarnane@autismspeaks.org

Smokey Bear Returns to Remind Americans ... "Only You Can Prevent Wildfires"

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 13:30:10 GMT

Smokey Bear stars in new PSAs and an Educational DVD in time for July 4th

Washington, D.C., June 30, 2010 /PRNewswire/ - The Advertising Council joined today with the USDA Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters (NASF) to launch a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs) and an educational DVD for elementary school students designed to provide critical information to Americans about wildfire prevention. The PSAs and DVD are being distributed prior to the July 4th holiday, a time when many people go camping, have outdoor BBQs and light fireworks.

Since his "birth" on August 9, 1944, Smokey Bear has been a recognized symbol of conservation and protection of America's forests. His message about wildfire prevention has helped to reduce the number of acres burned annually by wildfires, from about 22 million (1944) to an average of 6.5 million today. However, wildfire prevention remains one of the most critical environmental issues affecting our country. Many Americans believe that lightning starts most wildfires. In fact, on average, 9 out of 10 wildfires nationwide are caused by people. The principle causes are campfires left unattended, trash burning on windy days, arson, careless discarding of smoking materials or BBQ coals, and operating equipment without spark arrestors.

Created pro bono by ad agency Draftfcb, the same volunteer agency that has created work for the campaign since 1944, the new radio, outdoor and Web PSAs specifically target young adults who live in the wildland/urban interface-people who are likely to be casual campers, hikers, or mountain bikers -to remind them that Smokey is counting on them to prevent human-caused wildfires. The PSAs seek to continue to decrease the number of human-caused wildfires and they encourage young adults to "Get Your Smokey On" - that is, to become like Smokey and speak up appropriately when others are acting carelessly.

"'Get Your Smokey On' is a call for each of us to be responsible whenever we use fire," said Jim Hubbard, USDA Forest Service Deputy Chief for State & Private Forestry. "Smokey still needs your help in reducing the almost 70,000 wildfires that are human-caused each year."

In addition to the new PSAs, the Brigham Young University Ad Lab created a new DVD for elementary school teachers and other educational group leaders to communicate Smokey Bear's important messages. The DVD features a day in the forest with Smokey Bear and tells his story of wildfire prevention. Produced in both English and Spanish and in 3D animation, the DVD also contains curriculum, activities and resources for teachers. To view the DVD, visit www.smokeybear.com/resources.asp.

"Wildfire knows no boundaries and can occur in the backcountry or your backyard," said NASF Executive Director Jay Farrell. "Smokey Bear helps state forestry agencies build awareness about wildfire prevention in communities across the U.S."

The PSAs direct audiences to visit the campaign's website, www.smokeybear.com, where they can take a pledge and learn more about wildfire prevention. In addition to the new PSAs and website, Smokey Bear has profile pages on Facebook, MySpace and YouTube to further the reach of his messages to young adults:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/smokeybear
Twitter: www.twitter.com/smokey_bear
MySpace: www.myspace.com/wildfireprevention
YouTube: www.youtube.com/smokeybear
Mobile: www.smokeybearmobile.com

This summer, the campaign website and Smokey Bear's social media channels will feature a new series of interactive games and tools designed to further encourage young adults to "Get Your Smokey On."

"Smokey Bear's message is just as critical as it was over 65 years ago when he was first introduced to Americans," said Peggy Conlon, President and CEO of the Ad Council. "Through social media and by leveraging the latest technologies we have new and effective ways to engage another generation in understanding their role in wildfire prevention."

Since 1944, Smokey Bear has been communicating his well-known message, "Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires." In 2001, the term "Wildfires" was introduced to include all unwanted, unplanned fires in natural areas such as grass fires or brush fires.

"While Smokey Bear is an iconic character known and loved by generations, his message of wildfire prevention is one that must be constantly re-introduced in new and meaningful ways to reach the public and change their behavior," said Hilary Hamer, SVP, group management director at Draftfcb Orange County.

"One of our main goals as a University is to better the world in which we live," said Jeff Sheets, Director, BYU Ad Lab. "There is no better client than the Ad Council and the USFS to be able to work with to help accomplish that goal. We have really loved helping bring Smokey Bear back into the lives of a whole new generation of young children through this DVD, and we hope that our rendition of Smokey's story and tips on fire safety will be remembered for generations to come."

The Ad Council will be distributing the new PSAs to media outlets nationwide this week. Per the organization's model, the PSAs are airing and running in advertising time that is donated by the media. Over the last 66 years, media outlets have donated more than $1 billion in time and space for the Wildfire Prevention campaign.

USDA Forest Service
The USDA Forest Service is the agency responsible for overseeing the use of Smokey Bear in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the Advertising Council. The USDA Forest Service manages 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands for the American Public. Its mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF STATE FORESTERS
The National Association of State Foresters is comprised of the directors of forestry agencies from the fifty states, eight U.S. territories and associated states, and the District of Columbia. Through public-private partnership, NASF seeks to advance sustainable forestry, conservation, and protection of forest lands and their associated resources. As a partner with the USDA Forest Service, State Foresters are committed to the continued delivery of Smokey Bear's message of personal responsibility in wildfire protection.

DRAFTFCB
Draftfcb is a modern agency model for clients seeking creative, accountable marketing programs that build business and deliver a high Return on IdeasTM. With more than 136 years of combined expertise, the company has its roots in both consumer advertising and behavioral, data-driven direct marketing. The agency is the first global, behavior-based, holistic marketing communications organization to operate against a single P&L, and it places equal emphasis on creativity and accountability. The Draftfcb network spans 97 countries, with more than 9,600 employees worldwide, and is part of the Interpublic Group of Companies. The agency's global corporate leadership team includes Howard Draft, executive chairman; Laurence Boschetto, CEO and president; Jonathan Harries, vice-chairman and worldwide chief creative officer; and Neil Miller, CFO. For more information, visit www.draftfcb.com.

THE ADVERTISING COUNCIL
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contact:
USDA Forest Service Press Office
202-205-1134
jwalsh@fs.fed.us

Sarah McCreary
NASF
202-624-5417
smccreary@stateforesters.org

Ellyn Fisher
The Ad Council
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

Joshua Dysart
Draftfcb
312-425-6011
Joshua.Dysart@DraftFCB.com

AHRQ and Ad Council Encourage Men to Take Preventive Steps in their Health Care

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 09:35:05 GMT

New Research Finds Men are 24 Percent Less Likely than Women to have Visited their Doctor; Public Service Ads Launch as part of Men's Health Week

Rockville, MD, June 15, 2010 /PRNewswire/ - Men are 24 percent less likely than women to have visited the doctor within the past year, according to new data released today by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). In addition, men are about 30 percent more likely than women to be hospitalized for preventable conditions such as congestive heart failure and complications from diabetes, according to new AHRQ data.

In an effort to raise awareness among middle-aged men about the importance of preventive medical testing, AHRQ joined with the Ad Council today to launch a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs) in conjunction with Men's Health Week (June 13-19) and prior to Father's Day (June 20).

As an extension of a Men's Preventive Health campaign first launched in 2008, AHRQ and the Ad Council released new PSAs to encourage men over 40 to learn which preventive screening tests they need to get and when they need to get them. This campaign complements AHRQ's existing efforts toward improving the safety and quality of health care and promoting patient involvement in their own health care, including the "Questions are the Answer" campaign launched with the Ad Council in 2007 and the "Superheroes" Spanish-language campaign launched in 2008.

"Our new data indicate that men aren't visiting their physicians as often as they probably should," said AHRQ Director Carolyn M. Clancy, M.D., who is a general internist. "We hope these new ads will motivate men to visit their physicians and learn about which preventive medical tests they need and when they need to get them."

Campaign spokesperson Mehmet Oz, M.D., a heart surgeon who hosts the syndicated series, The Dr. Oz Show, noted that he sees many of his patients for the first time after they've had a heart attack. "Men have delusions of adequacy when it comes to monitoring their bodies and need to be more conscious of healthy living and knowing their numbers," said Dr. Oz. "Part of our responsibility as fathers and husbands is keeping ourselves healthy, and it should be a family effort to gently nudge all men to map out steps to do the right thing."

The Men's Preventive Health campaign highlights the work of the AHRQ-sponsored U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, an independent panel of experts in primary care and prevention that systematically reviews the evidence of effectiveness and develops recommendations for appropriate clinical preventive services screenings based on patient risk factors.
The data from the AHRQ Medical Expenditure Panel Survey released today also show that men are 22 percent more likely than women to have neglected their cholesterol tests.

Created pro bono for the Ad Council by Grey New York, the new television, radio, print, outdoor and Web ads incorporate family as a key motivating factor for men to take a more active role in preventive health. They show the target audience that they need to take care of themselves (and their health) in order to be there for their families now and in the future. To view the PSAs, visit www.ahrq.gov/healthymen.

"We know from our research that being there for your family is one of the strongest motivating factors for men when it comes to preventive medical testing," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "We are proud to continue working with AHRQ to raise awareness of these critical messages."

The PSAs encourage men to visit a comprehensive website, www.ahrq.gov/healthymen, which provides the recommended ages for preventive testing (as well as a list of tests), a quiz designed to test your knowledge of preventive health care, tips for talking with your doctor, a glossary of consumer health terms, and links to online resources where you can find more medical information.

"Good luck trying to get a grown man to the doctor unless he's half dead," said Rob Baiocco, EVP/Executive Creative Director, Grey New York. "So tell him he might not be around for his family, and do it in a jarring way, and he'll get his butt into the doctor's office for some preventive tests."

Public service advertisements are being distributed to approximately 33,000 media stations nationwide this week. Per the Ad Council's donated media model, all of the new public service advertisements will air and run in advertising time and space donated by the media. To date, the campaign has received more than $35 million in donated time and space.

Grey New York
Grey is the advertising network of Grey Group, which ranks among the largest global communications companies. Its parent company is WPP (NASDAQ: WPPGY). Grey Famously Effective Since 1917 serves a blue-chip client roster of many of the world's best known companies: Procter & Gamble, GlaxoSmithKline, Diageo, Darden Restaurants, Pfizer, Canon, 3M, Eli Lilly, ETrade, NFL, Boehringer Ingelheim J.M. Smucker and T.J. Maxx. FAST COMPANY named Grey to "The World's 50 Most Innovative Companies" list in 2010. (www.grey.com). Grey New York is the global headquarters.

AHRQ
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (www.ahrq.gov) is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. AHRQ's mission is to improve the quality, safety, efficiency and effectiveness of health care for all Americans. AHRQ's research helps people make more informed decisions and improve the quality of health care services.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contact:
AHRQ Public Affairs
(301) 427-1855

Ad Council
(212) 984-1964

USDA Forest Service and Ad Council Join DreamWorks Animation to Launch New PSAs Featuring Shrek to Help Get Children Outside and Re-connected with Nature

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 09:36:34 GMT

Debut of New Ads coincides with National Get Outdoors Day

Washington, D.C., (June 10, 2010) - In an effort to encourage children to spend more time outdoors and re-connect with nature, the USDA Forest Service and the Ad Council are joining DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. today to launch a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs) featuring characters from DreamWorks Animation's beloved Shrek films. Hank Kashdan, Associate Chief of the Forest Service, will unveil the PSAs on June 11 at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science in coordination with National Get Outdoors Day (June 12). The ads will be distributed to media outlets nationwide this week.

Children in the U.S. spend fifty percent less time outdoors than they did twenty years ago, according to the Institute for Social Research at the University of Michigan. As a result of this limited interaction with the outdoors, many children are unaware of the benefits that nature provides, including improving their physical and mental health and emotional well-being. Research shows that children who play outside have lower stress levels and more active imaginations, become fitter and leaner, develop stronger immune systems and are more likely to become environmentally conscious in the future.

"I am very pleased that Shrek is joining the Forest Service team to encourage children to get outdoors and learn about all the neat things forests have to offer," said Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell. "It's important for parents and their children to enjoy the great outdoors. And let's not forget, children are the future generations that will learn to love and protect these important lands."

Launched in June 2009, the Re-connecting Kids with Nature campaign primarily aims to reach "tweens" (children aged 8-12) and their parents. The goal is to encourage children to get outside and experience nature first-hand, instilling a life-long love for nature by fostering a connection with urban and national forests. Created pro bono by DreamWorks Animation and Turbine Boost, the new television, radio, outdoor and Web PSAs feature Shrek interacting with children in the forest and encourage audiences to "get outside and explore nature" because "there are surprises everywhere."Additionally, the Brigham Young University Ad Lab developed a second series of radio, outdoor and Web ads to further engage tweens in the message.

All of the PSAs direct parents and children to visit the campaign's website, www.DiscoverTheForest.org, where they can find ideas for outdoor activities, as well as educational and conservation information. Additionally, families can access an interactive tool (now also available on mobile devices), powered by Nature FindT and Google Maps, where they can search for nearby forests and parks. This week, the site will also include a "Book of Stuff to Do Outside" featuring characters from Shrek, which was developed with DreamWorks Animation's partner Hewlett Packard.

"These new PSAs and campaign materials are a wonderful extension of our efforts with the U.S. Forest Service to motivate children to spend more time outdoors," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "We are grateful to DreamWorks Animation for developing these ads featuring Shrek and we believe this beloved character will continue to encourage children and families to discover the many benefits that nature and the forest provide."

"At DreamWorks Animation we are proud to support the Ad Council's ongoing efforts to encourage kids and families to get outside and enjoy all that nature has to offer," said Anne Globe, head of worldwide marketing for DreamWorks Animation. "Shrek - whose love of the outdoors makes for an authentic fit with the message of the Forest Service - serves as the inspiration for the creative concept behind this unique series of custom-animated public service announcements."

The new PSAs will be promoted through an integrated social media program on Facebook and Twitter and through other online outreach. Visit the campaign's online communities on www.facebook.com/discovertheforest and www.twitter.com/cheecker.

The new PSAs are being distributed to approximately 33,000 media outlets nationwide. Per the Ad Council's model, all of the ads will air and run in advertising time and space donated by the media. Since last year, media outlets have donated more than $22 million in time and space for the campaign.

As an extension of the campaign, this fall the Ad Council and the Forest Service, in collaboration with JMH Education, will distribute a comprehensive school curriculum to elementary school teachers in an effort to educate children about the forest and encourage them to re-connect with nature.

In addition to the campaign website, www.DiscoverTheForest.org, parents and children can visit www.NationalGetOutdoorsDay.org for more information on the National Get Outdoors Day events nearest to them.

USDA Forest Service
The USDA Forest Service (www.fs.fed.us) manages 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands for the American Public. Its mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The USDA Forest Service is the agency responsible for overseeing the use of Smokey Bear in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and The Advertising Council. The Wildfire Prevention campaign, featuring Smokey Bear, is the longest running PSA campaign in U.S. history.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

DreamWorks Animation
DreamWorks Animation creates high-quality entertainment, including CG animated feature films, television specials and series, live entertainment properties and online virtual worlds, meant for audiences around the world. The Company has world-class creative talent, a strong and experienced management team and advanced filmmaking technology and techniques. DreamWorks Animation has been named one of the "100 Best Companies to Work For" by FORTUNE� Magazine for two consecutive years. In 2010, DreamWorks Animation ranks #6 on the list. All of DreamWorks Animation's feature films are now being produced in 3D. The Company has theatrically released a total of 20 animated feature films, including the franchise properties of Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda and How to Train Your Dragon. DreamWorks Animation's next feature film is Megamind, scheduled to be released in 3D on November 5, 2010.

Contacts:
U.S. Forest Service
Press Office
202-205-1134

DreamWorks Animation
Shannon Olivas
818-695-3658
shannon.olivas@dreamworks.com

The Ad Council
Ellyn Fisher
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

PSA Campaign Launches as New Survey Data Shows Only One in Five Young Adults Believes that People are Caring and Sympathetic to those with Mental Health Problems

Tue, 25 May 2010 09:22:04 GMT

Rockville, MD, May 25, 2010 - According to a national survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) there are an estimated 9.8 million adults aged 18 or older living with serious mental illness. Among adults, the prevalence of serious mental illness is highest in the 18 to 25 age group, yet this age group is also the least likely to receive services or counseling for mental health issues.

To help address this problem and as part of Mental Health Awareness Month, SAMHSA and The Advertising Council today launched a new series of national public service announcements (PSAs) designed to encourage, educate and inspire young adults (18-25 years old) to step up and support friends and family they know are experiencing a mental health problem.

The importance of this effort is underscored by the new 2009 HealthStyles Survey, a collaborative effort by SAMHSA and Porter Novelli, which reveals that almost three-quarters (72 percent) of young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 believe that a person with mental illness would improve if given treatment and support. The study, however also shows that far fewer young adults (33 percent) believe that a person can eventually recover. Other findings include:

Less than half (40 percent) of Americans believe a person with mental illness can be as successful at work as others.

While almost two-thirds (65 percent) of young adults who know someone with a mental illness believe that treatment can help people with mental illnesses lead normal lives, only one in five (22 percent) young adults believes that people are generally caring and sympathetic to people with mental illness.

"Now more than ever we know that people can recover from mental health problems," said U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. "Today we are getting the word out that support from friends and family can make a difference in helping people overcome these illnesses."

"Mental health problems are far too often misunderstood and sometimes friends don't know how to help," said SAMHSA Administrator Pamela S. Hyde, J.D. "This campaign will provide steps young people can take to help support their friends experiencing a mental illness."

The campaign is part of SAMHSA's public awareness and support strategic initiative to increase understanding of mental illness and substance abuse disorder prevention and treatment.

"For nearly 5 years we have partnered with SAMHSA to address societal misperceptions regarding mental health problems," said Peggy Conlon, president & CEO of the Ad Council. "We are calling on all young adults to support a loved one or friend who is dealing with a mental health problem so they will have a better chance at recovery."

Created by the advertising agency Grey New York, through the Ad Council, the campaign aims to promote acceptance of mental health problems by encouraging, educating and inspiring young adults to step up and talk openly about mental health problems. The new television and Web PSAs encourage young adults to step up and help a friend through recovery. The PSAs direct audiences to visit the campaign website, www.whatadifference.samhsa.gov, where they can participate in a new discussion forum, find tools to help in the recovery process, learn about the different types of mental illnesses, read real-life stories about support and recovery, and to see how friends can make all the difference. The PSAs will air in advertising time that will be entirely donated by the media. In an effort to further the reach of the campaign online, a social media program will also kick off this week.

"The best thing you can do for a friend dealing with a mental illness is everything you've already been doing," said Rob Baiocco, Executive Vice President and Executive Creative Director of Grey New York.

The Ad Council and SAMHSA first launched the Campaign for Mental Health Recovery nationwide in December 2006. An African American targeted campaign was launched in February 2010. Additional public service efforts designed to reach Hispanic Americans, Chinese Americans and Native Americans will also be launched this summer. To view the ads, please visit www.adcouncil.org.

SAMHSA is a public health agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. Its mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America's communities. (www.samhsa.gov)

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:
SAMHSA Press Office
240-276-2130

Ad Council Press Office
news@adcouncil.org

The Ad Council and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Encourage Parents to Take Action to Prevent Asthma Attacks

Thu, 20 May 2010 11:25:08 GMT

NEW YORK, May 20, 2010 - The Advertising Council, in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), announced today the launch of a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to inform parents of children living with asthma that serious asthma attacks can be prevented and to motivate them to learn how to take preventative action.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, since 1980 the number of people with asthma has more than doubled. Furthermore, seven million children in the United States have asthma and nearly two-thirds of them will experience an asthma attack this year. In addition, children miss 13 million school days each year due to asthma.

"As the parent of a child with asthma, I know how important it is to prevent attacks before they happen. The right information can make all the difference," said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. "EPA is proud to help educate families about simple steps they can take to prevent asthma attacks. We want to spread the word so that children - and parents -- will be able to breathe easier."

Created pro bono by C-E (Campbell-Ewald), the new television, radio and web PSAs provide parents and caregivers with new and simple actions, such as drying off bath toys and cleaning a child's favorite teddy bear, to limit risk factors within their environment. The ads are available in English and Spanish. The new PSAs encourage parents of children living with asthma to call 1-866-No-ATTACKS or visit www.noattacks.org for information on preventing asthma attacks.

"Although there is no known cure for the disease, I believe that this new round of work will urge parents to find out more about simple ways they can prevent their child from having an asthma attack" according to Peggy Conlon, President and CEO of The Advertising Council.

The new PSAs are an extension of the previously successful campaign, launched in 2001, According to a survey conducted by the Ad Council in 2009, significantly more parents of children with asthma have implemented the campaign messages into their daily lives. Fourty-three percent of these parents have reported that they dry bath toys while 18 percent of parents put stuffed animals in the freezer.

"We are honored to play this very important role in educating and empowering parents with information on how their child's environment can affect their asthma," said Bill Ludwig, chairman and CEO of C-E (Campbell-Ewald). The "Monster" campaign creatively motivates parents to take a few simple steps to proactively manage their child's asthma, reduce the incidence of an attack and enhance their quality of life."

Per the Ad Council's model, all of the PSAs will air in advertising time that is donated by the media.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
The U.S. EPA is a federal agency founded in 1970 that is committed to safeguarding the environment and human health. In 1999 EPA created a national, multi-faceted asthma education and outreach program in response to the growing asthma problem. This effort stresses the importance of incorporating environmental management into asthma education, outreach and management strategies. EPA has a variety of other initiatives that encourage people to take preventive actions to improve the quality of the environment and public health. You can learn more about EPA's programs at its website www.epa.gov/asthma.

C-E
C-E (Campbell-Ewald) is one of the nation's largest advertising and digital communications agencies, with offices in Detroit, Los Angeles, San Antonio, Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, New York, and Washington, D.C. A part of The Interpublic Group of Companies (NYSE:IPG), C-E partners with a score of national brands, including Alltel Wireless, Carrier, General Motors, Ghirardelli, Kaiser Permanente, Olympic Paints and Stains, OnStar, USAA, United States Environmental Protection Agency, United States Mint, United States Navy and the United States Postal Service. For more information on C-E, visit www.c-e.com.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

CONTACT:
Beth Shanley
The Ad Council
bshanley@adcouncil.org
212-984-1923

Pat Baskin
C-E (Campbell-Ewald)
Pat.Baskin@c-e.com
586-558-7200

Shepard Fairey's Feeding America artwork inspires nationwide outdoor PSA with The Advertising Council

Tue, 18 May 2010 10:48:38 GMT

Chicago, May 17, 2010 - Renowned contemporary artist Shepard Fairey, widely known for his Barack Obama "HOPE" poster during the 2008 U.S. Presidential Election, has partnered with Feeding America, the nation's largest domestic hunger-relief organization, and The Advertising Council to create an outdoor public service advertisement (PSA) that raises awareness of domestic hunger.

Fairey's poster depicts a young girl holding a bowl, alongside the words "HELP FIGHT HUNGER." Fairey said that the girl in the poster was inspired by his own daughter. The outdoor PSA urges viewers to visit feedingamerica.org or their local food bank to learn how they can help fight hunger.

"The issue of hunger in America is an important one to me. As the parent of two young daughters, I want to help raise awareness that every night millions of children and their parents go hungry," Fairey said. "I hope that my poster will highlight the need to combat this growing problem every day."

Fairey's poster comes at a critical time. In November, the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported that 49 million Americans, including nearly 17 million children, are food insecure. And in February, Feeding America released Hunger in America 2010, which reported that the organization serves more than 37 million people every year, including 14 million children and 3 million seniors. These findings are up a staggering 46 percent since Feeding America's last study in 2006.

Fairey created this poster after he was approached by his friend and Feeding America Entertainment Council Chairman, David Arquette, about generating art to raise awareness of the growing issue of hunger in America.

Fairey serves as a member of the Feeding America Entertainment Council, which includes more than 40 actors, singers, athletes and artists who support the organization by using their voices to raise awareness of domestic hunger.

"Shepard Fairey has given Feeding America a tremendous gift," said Vicki Escarra, President and CEO of Feeding America. "We are moved, honored and thrilled that through his brilliant talent, we are able to further engage communities across the nation in the fight against domestic hunger."

Fairey is one of today's best-known and most influential street artists whose work often focuses on advancing social movements and issues. He first became known for his "Andre the Giant Has a Posse" sticker campaign. His work can be seen at The Smithsonian, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art in New York City and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

The PSA campaign has generated extraordinary support from the outdoor advertising community nationwide which has donated advertisement space to support the campaign, including 1500 billboards, bus stops and other outdoor properties in more than 100 media markets across the country. These markets include New York City, Atlanta, Chicago and Denver.

A recent recipient of The Ad Council's coveted Silver Bell Award for Great Outdoor Creative, the PSA was recognized for creative excellence in 2009/2010. First awarded in 1977, The Ad Council's Silver Bell Awards are bestowed upon those who exemplify extraordinary generosity and leadership in disseminating the Ad Council's public service advertising messages.

"Feeding America's Shepard Fairey Hunger PSA is an iconic campaign that uses a truly poignant image to generate awareness of the growing hunger crisis in America," said Lisa Dollinger, Chief Communications Officer, Clear Channel Communications. "We are proud to be a part of this effort and to support all of Feeding America's campaigns across our Outdoor, Radio and Digital properties."

The Ad Council and Feeding America first launched their "1 in 8" national Hunger Prevention campaign in November 2008. The campaign aims to change the way Americans look at the critical issue, by illustrating that many people they interact with on a daily basis may not know where they will find their next meal.

About Feeding America

Feeding America provides low-income individuals and families with the fuel to survive and even thrive. As the nation's largest domestic hunger-relief charity, our network members supply food to more than 37 million Americans each year, including 14 million children and 3 million seniors. Serving the entire United States, more than 200 member food banks support 63,000 agencies that address hunger in all of its forms. Learn more at feedingamerica.org, Facebook.com/FeedingAmerica and Twitter.com/FeedingAmerica.

About Shepard Fairey

Shepard Fairey is the man behind OBEY GIANT, the graphics that have changed the way people see art and the urban landscape. What started with an absurd sticker he created in 1989 while a student at the Rhode Island School of Design has since evolved into a worldwide street art campaign, as well as an acclaimed body of fine art. In 2003, Shepard founded Studio Number One, a creative design firm dedicated to applying his ethos at the intersection of art and enterprise. Shepard's art reached a new height of prominence in 2008, when his "HOPE" portrait of Barack Obama became the iconic image of the presidential campaign and helped inspire an unprecedented political movement. Shepard debuted a new body of work, entitled, "May Day," on May 1st at Deitch Projects in New York City.
For more information, visit www.obeygiant.com

Media Contacts:

Julia Morse

312.641.5610

jmorse@feedingamerica.org

Ad Council Press Office

news@adcouncil.org

The Advertising Council and NeighborWorks� America Launch New PSAs to Help Homeowners in Foreclosure Crisis

Thu, 13 May 2010 09:18:48 GMT
NEW YORK, NY May 13, 2010 - The Advertising Council, in partnership with NeighborWorks� America, announced today the launch of new national public service advertisements (PSA) designed to educate homeowners about where they can turn for help if they are at risk of foreclosure. The campaign encourages distressed homeowners to call the Homeowner's HOPE Hotline, a free resource that helps homeowners facing foreclosure move closer to finding a resolution.

When the campaign was originally launched in 2007, an estimated 1 million homes were at risk of foreclosure. Since then, this number has continued to rise over the years. According to RealtyTrac data, foreclosure filings in the first quarter of 2010 were at almost 1 million properties, a 7% increase from the fourth quarter of 2009. Furthermore, this trend is expected to continue throughout this year, with an estimated 4 million homes at imminent risk of foreclosure, affecting homeowners in all communities, of all ethnicities and income levels.

"With an estimated 4 million homeowners at imminent risk of foreclosure this year, there is an urgent need to reach those homeowners and provide them with the information and counseling they need to move forward and make the right decisions," said Ken Wade, CEO of NeighborWorks� America. "It is an increasingly cluttered and confusing marketplace and even though homeowners want to take action, they are unsure of the steps they can take to prevent foreclosure. We are pleased to partner with the Ad Council and Cossette New York on this campaign to provide homeowners with a clear next step - call the HOPE hotline."

Created pro bono by ad agency Cossette New York, the new television and radio PSAs, available in English and Spanish use attention-grabbing humor and hyperbole to urge homeowners in financial trouble to call the HOPE Hotline at 888-995-HOPE as a first step to a resolution.

The HOPE hotline is the cornerstone of a foreclosure prevention effort involving many of the country's largest mortgage market companies. It provides homeowners with information about real options to move forward to a resolution as well as an opportunity to work with HUD-approved housing counselors, free of charge, who understand the situation and have the information and counsel needed.

"We are thrilled to continue our partnership with NeighborWorks� America on this very critical issue of home foreclosures that affects so many Americans," said Peggy Conlon, President and CEO, the Ad Council. "We are confident that these new PSAs will provide homeowners struggling with their mortgages the information they need to make the best decisions for their future."

Since the campaign initially launched in 2007, 2.6 million calls have been made to the HOPE hotline. Additionally, in the first two years of the campaign, from the June 2007 campaign launch through June 2009, more than 620,000 counseling sessions occurred.

"Partnering with the Ad Council is critical to being socially responsible in the marketing community and the country as a whole. Foreclosure is the number one by-product of the late 2008 Financial Crisis, and Americans need a reliable source of concise and unbiased information when faced with mortgage payment problems, " said Bill Oberlander, Chief Creative Officer, Cossette New York. "A well balanced message of entertainment and education was used to debunk scammers and well intentioned, misinformed family members. To get straight talk, go to the Hope Hotline first."

The Ad Council is distributing the new PSAs to more than 33,000 media outlets nationwide this week. Print and outdoor advertising will be available later this month. Per the Ad Council model, the PSAs will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media.

NeighborWorks� America
NeighborWorks� America creates opportunities for people to improve their lives and strengthen their communities by providing access to homeownership and to safe and affordable rental housing. Since 1991, we have assisted nearly 1.2 million low- to moderate-income families with their housing needs. Much of our success is achieved through our support of the NeighborWorks network ? more than 235 community development organizations working in more than 4,400 urban, suburban and rural communities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. In the last five years, NeighborWorks organizations have generated more than $15 billion in reinvestment in these communities. NeighborWorks America is the nation's leading trainer of community development and affordable housing professionals.

Cossette New York
Cossette Inc. (www.cossette.com) offers a full range of leading-edge communication services to clients of all sizes, including some of the most prestigious brands in the world. In New York its client roster includes United States Coast Guard, The Estee Lauder Companies, Dorel Recreation and Leisure's Cannondale, Schwinn, GT and Mongoose brands, American Standard and Agencies In Action. A customer-driven organization built around highly specialized business units, Cossette also offers Convergent CommunicationsT, a unique approach that brings added value to clients by integrating various services offered by the Group, including advertising, connections planning, media buying, sales promotion, customer relationship management, interactive solutions, public relations and alliance marketing, brand management and graphic design, strategic planning and research services, ethnic marketing, urban youth marketing, sports marketing, branded content and product placement and business-to-business communications. Cossette has over 1,450 employees, with offices in New York, Boston, Irvine, Los Angeles, Quebec City, Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Halifax, London, and Shanghai.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:

Beth Shanley
The Ad Council
212-984-1923
bshanley@adcouncil.org

Anthony Vagnoni
Cossette
973-493-8736
anthony@avagnoni.com

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and Ad Council Report Increase in Awareness of Lupus Among Women

Wed, 05 May 2010 10:01:28 GMT

New Radio PSAs Launched in Time for World Lupus Day

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 5, 2010 - Twenty-two percent of 18-44 year old women in the United States reported hearing more about lupus compared to a year ago, according to a national online survey released today by the Ad Council. In an effort to further engage minority women, who are at the greatest risk for lupus, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Office on Women's Health (OWH) and The Advertising Council are distributing new radio public service advertisements (PSAs) in time for World Lupus Day (May 10).

Lupus affects minority women three times more than white women. Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune inflammatory disease that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the body's own healthy cells and tissue. It strikes adult women 10 to 15 times more frequently than adult men. Symptoms of the disease include fatigue, hair loss, painful or swollen joints, fever, skin rashes and kidney problems.

Launched in March 2009, The "Could I Have Lupus?" PSA campaign targets young, minority women of childbearing age, 18 to 44, who are at greatest risk for lupus. The objective is to help these women understand the disease, its effects, and identify early warning signs so that they can request a medical evaluation from their doctor or community health center.

"When we started this campaign, we faced a very limited awareness and knowledge about lupus among women at greatest risk," said Frances E. Ashe-Goins RN, MPH, acting director of OWH at HHS. "Through our work with the Ad Council, we are significantly increasing awareness and providing women with the opportunity for an early diagnosis, which will reduce the number of lupus related deaths."

The Ad Council's national survey found that 22 percent of women surveyed said they had seen or heard the campaign advertising. Additionally, 15 percent reported they have recently heard, seen or read something about lupus, compared to 10 percent in 2009. Notably, one year after campaign launch, 14 percent of women surveyed reported having visited a website for more information about lupus compared to 9 percent of women surveyed a year ago.

"The exposure this campaign is receiving in the media is translating into action," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "We are looking forward to continuing our work with the Office on Women's Health to develop essential communications tools that will further educate women about lupus and its symptoms."

New campaign PSAs launching today consist of :30 and :60 second English and Spanish radio spots. Created pro bono by Los Angeles-based ad agency Muse Communications, the PSAs feature the stories of real women and conclude with the tagline, "For answers. For support. For hope." and direct women to visit www.couldihavelupus.gov or www.podriayotenerlupus.gov, or call a toll-free number (1-800-994-9662) to learn more about the symptoms and treatment options for lupus and access local resources.

"Our sincere hope is that the work we have done and will continue to do contributes to the call to action for women of color," says Shelley Yamane, president and chief strategic officer of Muse. "We believe if we can significantly increase awareness to the symptoms of this dreaded disease, we can contribute to the early diagnosis and successful treatment of Lupus for thousands of American women," she added.
Per the Ad Council model, the PSAs will run and air in advertising time that is donated by the media. To date, the Lupus Awareness campaign, has received more than $27 million worth of donated media since its launch in March 2009.

The online survey was commissioned by the Ad Council and HHS and conducted in partnership with Greenfield Online/Toluna from March 30 to April 7, 2010. The sample consisted of 404 women between the ages of 18 and 44 who have never been diagnosed or treated for lupus. Respondents were part of households that are members of a large national opt-in panel managed by Greenfield Online/Toluna, or were recruited via Real-Time SamplingT which invites adults to complete a survey without asking them for any commitment to join a market research panel. Preset sampling specifications were set to ensure a nationally representative sample of women, reflecting a range of demographic groups.

Office on Women's Health
The Office on Women's Health was established in 1991 within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Its vision is to ensure that "all women and girls are healthier and have a better sense of well being," while its mission is to "provide leadership to promote health equity for women and girls through sex/gender-specific approaches." This is achieved through the development of innovative programs, educating health professionals, and motivating behavior change in consumers through the dissemination of health information.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization that marshals volunteer talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to deliver critical messages to the American public. The Ad Council produces, distributes and promotes thousands of public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventative health, education, community well being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:

HHS
Office of Public Health and Science
Public Affairs Office
(202) 205-0143

Lee Hayes
LAGRANT COMMUNICATIONS
(972) 764-3399
leehayes@lagrant.com

Ad Council Press Office
news@adcouncil.org

Aumenta el Conocimiento Sobre el Lupus Entre Mujeres Seg�n Datos Revelados por el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de los Estados Unidos y el Ad Council

Wed, 05 May 2010 09:56:25 GMT

Se Lanzan Nuevos Anuncios de Servicio P�blico en Espa�ol para Coincidir con el D�a Mundial del Lupus

WASHINGTON, D.C., 5 de mayo, 2010 - Veintid�s por ciento de mujeres entre las edades de 18 a 44 a�os en los Estados Unidos reportaron haber escuchado m�s sobre el lupus en comparaci�n con el a�o anterior, seg�n una encuesta nacional difundida hoy v�a internet por el Ad Council. En un esfuerzo para involucrar a�n m�s a las mujeres hispanas, quienes corren un gran riesgo de padecer lupus, la Oficina de Salud de la Mujer (OWH) del Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de los Estados Unidos (HHS) y el Ad Council est�n distribuyendo nuevos anuncios de servicio p�blico(PSA's) para coincidir con el D�a Mundial del Lupus (10 de mayo).

El lupus afecta a las mujeres de minor�as �tnicas tres veces m�s que a las mujeres blancas. El lupus es una enfermedad cr�nica autoinmune e inflamatoria que hace que el sistema inmunol�gico ataque err�neamente las c�lulas y los tejidos saludables del cuerpo. La incidencia de la enfermedad entre mujeres adultas es de 10 a 15 veces mayor que entre los hombres.

Lanzada en marzo de 2009, la campa�a pro bono "�Podr�a Yo Tener Lupus?" se dirige a mujeres j�venes de grupos minoritarios en edad reproductiva, 18 a 44 a�os, quienes poseen un mayor riesgo de desarrollar ese padecimiento. El objetivo es ayudar a estas mujeres a entender la enfermedad, sus efectos, as� como identificar a tiempo las se�ales de alerta para que puedan solicitar una evaluaci�n de su m�dico o centro de salud comunitario.

"El lupus sigue prevaleciendo entre las mujeres hispanas. Sabemos que a menudo el idioma se convierte en una barrera para obtener la informaci�n y los recursos necesarios", coment� la doctora Ledia Mart�nez, coordinadora regional de la salud de la mujer de la OWH. "Con los recursos en espa�ol e ingl�s de la campa�a, podemos aumentar notablemente el conocimiento sobre esta enfermedad y ayudar a las latinas a obtener un diagn�stico temprano, lo que les dar� mayor oportunidad de mejorar su salud y aumentar su supervivencia a largo plazo".

El estudio nacional del Ad Council revel� que el 22 por ciento de las mujeres encuestadas dijo haber visto o escuchado la campa�a publicitaria. Asimismo, un 15 por ciento report� haber o�do, visto o le�do alguna informaci�n sobre el lupus recientemente en contraste con el 10 por ciento en el 2009. Es importante destacar que un a�o despu�s del lanzamiento de la campa�a, el 14 por ciento de las mujeres encuestadas dijo haber visitado un sitio web para obtener m�s informaci�n sobre el lupus en comparaci�n con el nueve por ciento de las mujeres que lo report� en el 2009.

"La cobertura que esta campa�a est� recibiendo en los medios de comunicaci�n se est� traduciendo en acci�n", dijo Peggy Conlon, presidente y CEO del Ad Council. "Estamos deseosos de continuar nuestro trabajo con la Oficina de Salud de la Mujer para desarrollar herramientas de comunicaci�n esenciales que contribuyan a educar a las mujeres sobre el lupus y sus s�ntomas".

Los nuevos anuncios de servicio p�blico de radio en espa�ol consisten en segmentos de 30 y 60 segundos de duraci�n. Creada pro bono por la agencia Muse Communications de Los �ngeles, los PSA's relatan las historias de mujeres reales y concluyen con el lema: "Para respuestas. Para obtener asistencia. Por la esperanza." Al mismo tiempo, exhortan a las mujeres a visitar www.podriayotenerlupus.gov o llamar al n�mero gratuito (1-800-994-9662) para obtener m�s informaci�n sobre los s�ntomas y las opciones de tratamiento as� como para accesar recursos locales.

"Nuestra sincera esperanza es que el trabajo que hemos hecho y seguiremos haciendo se convierta en un llamado a la acci�n", dijo Shelley Yamane, presidente y directora de estrategia de Muse. "Creemos que si logramos aumentar notablemente el conocimiento de los s�ntomas de esta terrible enfermedad, podremos contribuir al diagn�stico temprano y tratamiento exitoso del lupus para miles de mujeres estadounidenses", agreg�.

Siguiendo el modelo del Ad Council, los anuncios de servicio p�blico saldr�n al aire en tiempo publicitario donado por los medios de comunicaci�n. Hasta la fecha, la campa�a de concientizaci�n sobre el lupus ha recibido espacios en los medios de informaci�n por un valor de $27 millones de d�lares desde su lanzamiento en marzo de 2009.

La encuesta v�a internet fue solicitada por el Ad Council y el HHS, y realizada en colaboraci�n con Greenfield Online/Toluna del 30 marzo al 7 abril del 2010. La muestra consisti� en 404 mujeres entre las edades de 18 y 44 a�os, quienes nunca hab�an sido diagnosticadas o tratadas por lupus. Las mujeres pertenecieron a hogares miembros de un extenso panel nacional de forma voluntaria, administrado por Greenfield Online/Toluna, o fueron reclutadas por medio de Real-Time SamplingT, el cual invita a adultos a completar encuestas, pero sin solicitarles un compromiso de formar parte de paneles de investigaci�n de mercado. Especificaciones de muestreo preprogramadas fueron activadas para garantizar una muestra nacionalmente representativa de mujeres que reflejara una variedad de grupos demogr�ficos.

Acerca la Oficina de Salud de la Mujer
La Oficina de Salud de la Mujer (Office on Women's Health, OWH) se cre� en 1991 en el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de los Estados Unidos. Su visi�n consiste en asegurar que "todas las mujeres y ni�as sean m�s sanas y tengan un mejor bienestar". Su misi�n es "proveer liderazgo para fomentar la igualdad de salud de mujeres y ni�as a trav�s de enfoques espec�ficos de sexo/g�nero". Esto se consigue con el desarrollo de programas innovadores, educando a profesionales de salud, y motivando un cambio de conducta entre los consumidores a trav�s de la diseminaci�n de informaci�n sobre la salud .

The Advertising Council
El Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) es una organizaci�n privada sin fines de lucro, que organiza talentos de las industrias publicitaria y comunicaciones, medios y organizaciones de car�cter empresarial y sin fines de lucro. El Ad Council produce, distribuye y promueve miles de campa�as de servicio p�blico en nombre de organizaciones y agencias de gobierno en �reas como el mejoramiento de la calidad de vida de los ni�os, salud preventiva, educaci�n, bienestar de la comunidad, preservaci�n del medio ambiente y fortalecimiento de las familias.

CONTACTOS:
HHS
Office of Public Health and Science
Public Affairs Office
(202) 205-0143

Juana M. V�liz
LAGRANT COMMUNICATIONS
(972) 764-5206
juanaveliz@lagrant.com

Oficina de Prensa, Ad Council
news@adcouncil.org

Ad Council and Save the Children Launch Campaign to Raise Awareness of the Impact of Local Health Workers in the Developing World

Tue, 04 May 2010 09:38:18 GMT

New consumer research: 42% of women would be encouraged to give time or money to help save newborns and children in the world's poorest nations if they had a better understanding of what they could do to help

New York, NY - May 4, 2010 - Save the Children and The Advertising Council announced today the launch of a national multimedia public service advertising (PSA) campaign designed to raise awareness of the preventable and treatable causes of childhood death in the developing world. The new campaign shows Americans that they can have a significant impact on saving and improving the lives of at-risk children and newborns by supporting the deployment of local health workers.

According to Save the Children, the majority of child deaths are preventable through proven, low-cost interventions like vaccinations, better delivery and newborn care practices, and treatment of common infections like diarrhea and pneumonia. This care is delivered by local health workers serving in their own communities or local clinics. In fact, Save the Children estimates that every four seconds a child's life is being saved as a result of the care provided by these local health workers. However, global estimates suggest the need for over 4.2 million more health workers to deliver this life-saving care throughout the world. The PSAs highlight the local health worker as a hero, offering a sustainable solution for child survival in the developing world.

Every day, about 24,000 children in the developing world die of preventable or treatable illnesses such as pneumonia and diarrhea before they reach the age of five, according to Save the Children. Nearly 4 million of these deaths occur among newborns less than one month old, which is roughly equivalent to the total number of babies born annually in the U.S. These tragedies occur because many of these children live in marginalized urban and rural areas which lack access to trained health professionals and health facilities. Local health workers are trained to promote preventive care and to assess and treat children with signs of disease and other life-threatening conditions.

"I have met many of these women and men who are not only looking after their own children but all of the children in the community," said Mary Beth Powers, Save the Children's Newborn and Child Survival Campaign Chief. "They make my daily jog look like a walk in the park compared to the miles they travel to help save lives."

Consumer research released today by Save the Children and commissioned by WomanTrend found that 42 percent of women said they would be encouraged to give time or money to help save the lives of newborns and children in the world's poorest nations if they had a better understanding of what they could do to help. Furthermore, 52 percent of women said they would be willing to donate money to a respected charity and 51 percent said they would volunteer their time to help save the lives of newborns and children in the world's poorest nations.

"We are thrilled to partner with two wonderful organizations, Save the Children and BBDO, on this compelling campaign that has the opportunity to save the lives of children and newborns throughout the world," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "By highlighting the significant work of local health workers, we hope to inspire Americans to learn more about Save the Children and provide encouragement and support to these local heroes that are so deserving of it."

Created pro bono by BBDO, the campaign includes television, radio, print, outdoor and web ads. The PSAs, filmed in Ethiopia and Bangladesh, aim to show Americans that they can have a significant impact on saving and improving the lives of at-risk children and newborns by supporting local health workers. The campaign highlights the local health worker as the bridge between American supporters and children in need. The PSAs end with the tagline "See where the good goes" and share the experiences of the local health workers in a way that is both relatable and inspiring. Additional radio spots feature voiceovers by actresses Lisa Edelstein, Rebecca Romijn, and actress and singer Idina Menzel, all supporters of Save the Children.

"This is an issue that is near and dear to all of us at BBDO," said John Osborn, President and Chief Executive Officer of BBDO New York. "We've tried to make a connection with our audience by accentuating the positive, reinforcing the heart and soul of Save the Children. People told us they want help and hope, so these became the building blocks of our effort, one of the ways BBDO is approaching 'soul branding,' which reinforces doing well by doing good."

All of the PSAs direct audiences to visit a new interactive website, www.GoodGoes.org, developed by Washington, DC-based Home Front Communications. The site provides visitors with the opportunity to learn more about the issue of child survival and the role of the local health worker and "See where the good goes." Additionally, the site features a customized Google map application of their village routes, blog posts, video bios and statistics on how many children they treat and the child survival solutions they administer.

In addition to the new PSAs and website, the campaign will engage the audiences through a series of social media strategies, including blog and online outreach, as well as social networking initiatives. Through an innovative Facebook application, users will be encouraged to become a part of a virtual wall of support for local health workers and share messages of encouragement. Audiences will also have the opportunity to sign up on Twitter to receive tweets about local health workers and their journeys. They can text "GOODGOES" to 20222 to give $10 for a package of newborn care and give a baby a healthy start in life. Furthermore the new PSAs will be featured on the homepage of YouTube.

Facebook.com/GoodGoes

Twitter.com/GoodGoes

Great Wall of Good

The Ad Council is distributing the new PSAs to more than 33,000 media outlets nationwide this week. Per the Ad Council model, the PSAs will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media.

Save the Children
Save the Children is the world's leading independent organization for children. Our 29 national members work together to deliver programs in over 120 countries around the world, including the United States. Our mission is to inspire breakthroughs in the way the world treats children, and to achieve immediate and lasting change in their lives by improving their health, education and economic opportunities. In times of acute crisis, we mobilize rapid assistance to help children recover from the effects of war, conflict and natural disasters. www.savethechildren.org

BBDO
BBDO's mantra is "The Work. The Work. The Work." Every day, people in 287 offices in 79 countries work job by job and client by client, to create and deliver the world's most compelling commercial content. BBDO is currently Network of the Year at Cannes, the world's most awarded agency network in The Gunn Report, and the most awarded global agency network across every marketing communications discipline in The Big Won report. Encouragingly, for the future, it is also Network of the Year in the 8th annual Young Guns Awards, which recognize the work of young and emerging creatives. BBDO is part of Omnicom Group Inc (NYSE: OMC) (www.omnicomgroup.com).

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:
Wendy Christian
Save the Children
wchristian@savechildren.org

Beth Shanley
The Ad Council
bshanley@adcouncil.org

Jocelyn Weiss-Malas
BBDO
Jocelyn.Weiss-Malas@bbdo.com

Ad Council Unveils AdLibbing.org Blog for the Social Marketing Community

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 10:14:55 GMT
The Ad Council, the nation's leading producer of public service advertisements (PSAs), announced today the launch of their new blog, AdLibbing (www.adlibbing.org), which gives tips, best practices and resources on communicating social messages in today's media environment.

AdLibbing provides hands-on expertise on all aspects of public service communications, including cutting-edge social media, research and evaluation, media partnerships, fundraising and cause marketing practices. Directed to the non-profit and federal government communities, the blog is written by Ad Council staff from Corporate Communications, Media, Corporate Development and Campaign Management, as well as guest bloggers from the communications industry.

"The Ad Council has been the leader in public service communications for nearly 70 years and we continue to explore new ways to share our knowledge and experience with other social marketers," said Peggy Conlon, president & CEO of the Ad Council. "AdLibbing will be a valuable resource for those who want to effectively communicate social messages, and it will help initiate a national dialogue on the importance of social marketing."

In addition to the blog, the Ad Council holds quarterly events for non-profit organizations and federal government departments in New York and Washington, DC to share public service expertise and promote information-sharing. The "Seminar Series on Effective Public Service Advertising" covers a wide range of topics including Blogging, Viral Marketing, Mobile Marketing, Evaluating Social Media and "Communications on a Shoestring Budget."To learn more, click here.

The Ad Council recently also launched a new social media site, MyAdCouncil.org, which provides a way for advertising agencies, media companies, advertisers and social marketers to further the reach of the Ad Council's public service campaigns online.

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contact:
Ad Council Press Office
news@adcouncil.org

Ad Council and Hispanic Scholarship Fund Launch Campaign to Inspire and Empower Hispanic Parents to Take a more Active Role in getting their Kids To College

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 09:50:43 GMT

Only 13% of Hispanics (ages 26-65) have a BA Degree

New York, NY - According to a recent Pew Hispanic Center study, many Hispanic youth are not pursuing a college degree as a result of their parents not understanding the steps they can take to help their children prepare for and apply to college. In an effort to raise awareness among Hispanic parents about the critically important role they play in encouraging their children to go to college, The Advertising Council, in partnership with the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, launched today a national multimedia public service advertising campaign to confront this issue.

Hispanics currently represent 15 percent of the U.S. population, or 50 million people and are projected to represent 28 percent or 128 million people by 2050. According to a Pew study, 9 in 10 Hispanic parents agree that the way to a good job and a comfortable lifestyle is through a college degree. In fact, more than three-quarters (77%) of Hispanics ages 16 to 25 report their parents think going to college is the most important thing to do after high school. More so, six-in-ten (60%) Hispanics who have gone to college rank their parents as being the most influential in their decision to continue their schooling. However, Tom�s Rivera Policy Institute studies have shown that more than 65% Hispanic parents do not have the knowledge to guide their children as they seek to apply and enroll in college.

The new PSA campaign primarily aims to reach low to mid acculturated Hispanic parents in the U.S. The majority of these parents do not hold a college degree, and lack the information and guidance to successfully motivate their children to go to college. The objective of the campaign is to provide these parents with the resources needed through the new campaign website, www.YourWordsToday.org and toll-free number, 1-877-HSF-8711.

"We are at a critical juncture in our nation's history and Latino parents need our support" exclaims Frank Alvarez, CEO and President of the Hispanic Scholarship Fund. "Thanks to our partnership with The Ad Council and Grupo Gallegos, we believe that these compelling PSAs and our toolkit for parents, will encourage and inspire parents to take a more active role in encouraging their children to go to college. Given the growing Latino population demographic and the disparities in educational attainment, we affirm that this is a national issue that must be embraced by all of us."

"Hispanic parents and their children see college as important but are at a disadvantage because many have not had the opportunity to attend college themselves. We are thrilled to be working with the Hispanic Scholarship Fund and Grupo Gallegos on this empowering campaign to help educate Hispanic parents on the critical role they play in helping their children go to college" said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "By providing these parents with the necessary resources to better educate themselves for the college process, we can encourage all Hispanic parents to guide their children to a college degree."

Created pro bono by Grupo Gallegos, the campaign includes new television, radio, print, outdoor and Web advertising, which is available in English and Spanish. The PSAs conclude with the tagline, "De tus palabras de hoy depende su ma�ana." ("Their tomorrow depends on your words today") and directs parents to visit a new comprehensive website, www.YourWordsToday.org, www.TusPalabrasdeHoy.org, or call a toll-free number (1-877-HSF-8711). The site, which is also available in Spanish, empowers parents to get involved by offering resources to better understand and navigate the college process. Parents can also call the toll-free number to order a free informational DVD. The DVD includes real life videos created and produced by Novelas EducativasT, in collaboration with the National Council for Community and Education Partnerships (NCCEP).

"At Grupo Gallegos, we were motivated to do our part to further awareness of this critically important issue," said John Gallegos, President, Grupo Gallegos. "We are excited to partner with the Hispanic Scholarship Fund and the Ad Council for this campaign that communicates to Hispanic parents about the crucial role they play in their children's education."

All of the new PSAs are being distributed to more than 33,000 media outlets nationwide. Per the Ad Council model, the PSAs will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media.

Hispanic Scholarship Fund
The Hispanic Scholarship Fund's (HSF) mission is to strengthen America by advancing the college education of Hispanic Americans. The organization delivers a range of programs to Hispanic families and students through community outreach and education, affordability via scholarships, college retention and career opportunities. HSF supports a successful path for Latinos to attain a college degree - creating an increasingly valuable asset for a stronger, more competitive America in the 21st century. Celebrating its 35th year, the Hispanic Scholarship Fund has awarded over $300M, resulting in approximately 100,000 scholarships to students in need. Visit: www.HSF.net.

Grupo Gallegos
An independent advertising firm specializing in reaching the U.S. Hispanic market, Grupo Gallegos is located in Long Beach, CA. In 2008, Grupo Gallegos was recognized as Multicultural Agency of the Year by Ad Age. Established in 2001 by John Gallegos, Grupo Gallegos has received the D&AD, Clio Awards, FIAP Awards and Cannes Lions. Agency clients include Target, Energizer, Fruit of the Loom, Comcast, The California Milk Processor Board, Girl Scouts USA, and Valvoline. For more information, visit www.grupogallegos.com.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:

Kristan Kirsh
Hispanic Scholarship Fund
kkirsh@hsf.net

Beth Shanley
The Ad Council
bshanley@adcouncil.org

FEMA's Ready Campaign Receives 2010 BESSIE Award for Online Classroom Resource

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 16:52:38 GMT
WASHINGTON, D.C. , April 20, 2010 - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Ready Campaign's Ready Classroom has been awarded a 2010 BESSIE Awards from the ComputED Learning Center.

The Ready Classroom, an online resource designed in partnership with Discovery Education and The Advertising Council, won the award for Best Disaster Preparedness Web site. The Web site provides elementary and middle school educators with natural disaster preparedness resources and tips on how to integrate this critical information into their curriculum.

"We are honored to join Discovery Education and the Ad Council in accepting the 2010 BESSIE Award for the Ready Classroom," said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. "By providing teachers with resources and information to share with their classes on preparedness, we hope Ready Classroom will encourage students and their parents to take steps to ensure their family are prepared for natural disasters and other emergencies."

Visit this award winning online resource at www.discoveryeducation.com/readyclassroom.

"We are very appreciative of this recognition by the ComputED Learning Center," said Kelli Campbell, senior vice president of content and product development for Discovery Education. "We strive to develop outstanding instructional resources such as the Ready Classroom site to offer resources and guidelines that help educators, administrators and parents address the needs of the whole child."

This is the 16th year of the Annual Best Educational Software Awards (BESSIES). The ComputED Gazette and Computer Learning Lab sponsor the award program. Targeting innovative and content-rich programs and Web sites that provide parents and teachers with the technology to foster educational excellence, the program selects winners from titles submitted by digital resource publishers from around the world.

This online resource is an extension of Ready Kids which is part of the successful Ready Campaign, a national public service advertising campaign designed to educate and empower Americans to prepare for and respond to emergencies including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks. Launched in 2003, in partnership with the Ad Council, Ready is designed to educate and empower Americans to prepare for and respond to emergencies, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks. It has proven to be one of the most successful campaigns in the Ad Council's more than 66-year history.

Since its launch, the Ready Campaign has generated more than $836 million in donated media support. Individuals interested in more information about family, business and community preparedness can visit www.ready.gov.

Follow FEMA online at www.twitter.com/femainfocus, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Ad Council's Boost Up Created by Publicis NY Nominated for Best Integrated Campaign in the 14th Annual Webby Awards

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 14:33:51 GMT

Fans Can Vote Online to Help Boost Up Win Internet's Top Honor @ http://webby.aol.com/media_types/interactive-advertising

New York, NY (April 20, 2010) - The Ad Council and Publicis New York announced today that the Boost Up campaign has been nominated for Best Integrated category in the 14th Annual Webby Awards. The U.S. Army's High School Dropout Prevention campaign created by Publicis New York in partnership with the Ad Council, also known as Boost Up, is dedicated to helping high school students stay in school and graduate.

Hailed as the "Internet's highest honor" by The New York Times, The Webby Awards is the leading international award honoring excellence on the Internet.

"We're thrilled to be nominated for such an important campaign. The greatest misperception is that kids are prone to dropping out. In truth, they have economic, family, or even health issues. Hence, Boostup.org was created to tell this story and to support and encourage students to stay in school," said Rob Feakins, President and Chief Creative Officer of Publicis New York.

"Nominees like Boost Up are setting the standard for innovation and creativity on the Internet," said David-Michel Davies, executive director of the Webby Awards. "It is an incredible achievement to be selected among the best from the nearly 10,000 entries we received this year."

"Boost Up is a wonderful campaign that provides an interactive community of support for teens throughout the country who are struggling to stay in school," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "We are thrilled that the campaign has been recognized with this honor."

As a nominee, Boost Up is also eligible to win a Webby People's Voice Award, which is voted via Internet by the global Web community. From now until April 29th, Boost Up fans can cast their votes for The Webby People's Voice Awards at http://webby.aol.com.

Winners will be announced on May 4, 2010 and honored at a star-studded ceremony in New York City on June 14th, where they will have an opportunity to deliver one of the Webby's famous five-word speeches with the world. Past Webby Award winners - and their speeches - include Al Gore ("Please don't recount this vote."), Stephen Colbert ("Me. Me. Me. Me. Me."), and Michel Gondry ("Keyboards are full of germs."). For a full list of last year's five-word speeches, please visit: http://www.webbyawards.com/press/speeches.php.

The Webby Awards is presented by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, a 650-person judging academy whose members include Internet co-inventor Vinton Cerf, R/GA's Chief Bob Greenberg, "Simpson's" creator Matt Groening, Arianna Huffington and Harvey Weinstein.

About Publicis New York
Publicis New York is part of Publicis USA, the North American regional operating unit of Publicis Worldwide, the largest global advertising network within Publicis Groupe. The New York team is expert in creating contagious ideas that ignite conversations. Publicis New York's clients include Coca-Cola, L'Oreal, Marriott, TGI Friday's, Maytag, Procter & Gamble, Ad Council and CITI.
Publicis Worldwide is part of the Paris-based Publicis Groupe, the world's fourth-largest communications company. With worldwide revenues of $4.8 billion, it is among the fastest-growing communications companies in the world. For more information, please go to www.publicis-usa.com.

About The Advertising Council
The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer talent from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public. Having produced literally thousands of PSA campaigns addressing the most pressing social issues of the day, the Ad Council has effected, and continues to effect, tremendous positive change by raising awareness, inspiring action and saving lives. To learn more about the Ad Council and its campaigns, visit www.adcouncil.org.

About The Webby Awards
Hailed as the "Internet's highest honor" by the New York Times, The Webby Awards is the leading international award honoring excellence on the Internet, including Websites, interactive advertising, online film and video, and mobile web sites. Established in 1996, the 13th Annual Webby Awards received nearly 10,000 entries from all 50 states and over 60 countries worldwide. The Webby Awards is presented by The International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences. Sponsors and Partners of The Webby Awards include: Microsoft Expression; Aol; YouTube; Pepsi; Aquent; Yahoo!; Tribal DDB Worldwide; East Media; IDG; PricewaterhouseCoopers; 2advanced.Net; KobeMail; Museum of the Moving Image; Behance; Business Insider and Time Out New York.

Contact Information

Christie Giera
Publicis USA
Email: christine.giera@publicis-usa.com
Phone: 212.279.5748

Ellyn Fisher
The Ad Council
Email: efisher@adcouncil.org
Phone: 212-984-1964

National Campaign Launches to Protect Children and Families from Lead Poisoning

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 09:28:22 GMT

New national survey shows lead poisoning in homes is not top concern among parents

New York, NY, April 20, 2010 - According to a national online survey released today by the Ad Council, only a third of parents in the United States are very concerned that lead poses a health risk to their children. However, lead poisoning affects more than one million children in the United States. If not detected early, children with high levels of lead in their bodies can suffer from damage to the brain and nervous system, behavior and learning problems (such as hyperactivity), slowed growth, hearing problems and aggressive behavior.

In an effort to raise awareness of the consequences of lead poisoning among parents and pregnant women who live in homes built before 1978, the Coalition to End Childhood Lead Poisoning, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) are joining the Ad Council today to launch a national multimedia public service advertising (PSA) campaign.

"Lead poisoning is a costly, tragic and irreversible environmental disease that robs children of their ability to reach their full potential - yet it is entirely preventable," said Ruth Ann Norton, Executive Director of the Coalition to End Childhood Lead Poisoning. "That is why we teamed with our partners at the EPA, HUD and the Ad Council to launch this national lead poisoning prevention and awareness campaign. Together, we can make lead history."

The most common pathway for lead poisoning is caused by deteriorating lead-based paint (on older windows, doors and trim, or walls) or through improper renovation, repair and painting activities that cause paint to chip, peel, or flake. Children are frequently poisoned by ingesting lead dust that has accumulated on their hands, fingers, toys, or clothing from lead hazard sources like floors and windowsills.

"Dust from paint containing lead is especially toxic to young children," said Steve Owens, EPA Assistant Administrator for Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances. "Parents can protect their children from exposure to toxic lead paint dust by hiring a lead-safe trained contractor if they live in an older home and plan to renovate or repair."

The new PSA campaign primarily aims to reach parents and caregivers of children age six and under, and pregnant women, who are at the greatest risk for lead poisoning. The objective is to educate parents about the dangers of lead poisoning so they can take immediate action to safeguard their children.

"To grow up healthy, children need to live in healthy homes, and getting homes tested for lead is an essential part of that process," said Ron Sims, HUD Deputy Secretary. "There are approximately 38 million U.S. homes that still contain lead-based paint, so it's important to know the age of your home and get it tested if it was built before 1978."

The Ad Council's national survey released today found that when parents were asked what they were concerned about, only less than ten percent mentioned that lead poses a risk to their children's health. The majority of respondents rated cleaners and solvents, electrical outlets and prescription medicines as the home hazards they are most concerned about, while lead poisoning ranked second to last. Furthermore, among those respondents who used contractors to do renovations, only 38 percent were confident that they used a lead-safe contractor.

"Our research revealed that childhood lead poisoning is not a top concern among parents," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "Our partnership with the Coalition to End Childhood Lead Poisoning, EPA, and HUD will educate parents about the dangers and empower them to take simple steps to protect their children from lead poisoning."

Created pro bono by New York-based ad agency Merkley+Partners, the campaign includes television, radio, print, outdoor and Web advertising, which is available in English and Spanish.

"Merkley+Partners is proud to play a role in bringing awareness to the issue of lead poisoning. We believe the campaign is arresting, conveys a sense of urgency and will motivate parents and caregivers to act quickly to ensure their young children are safe," said Diane Hernandez, Group Account Director of Merkley+Partners.

The PSAs direct parents to visit a new comprehensive web site, www.leadfreekids.org or call a toll-free number (1-800-424-LEAD), to learn more about where lead can be found in their home, how to protect their children from exposure to lead and to know what to do if they or a member of their family is exposed to lead. The site, which is also available in Spanish at www.leadfreekids.org/espanol, encourages parents and other adults to download free toolkits in an effort to help eliminate childhood lead poisoning.

The new PSAs are being distributed to more than 33,000 media outlets nationwide this week. Per the Ad Council model, the PSAs will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media.

The online survey was commissioned by the Ad Council and the Coalition to End Childhood Lead Poisoning and conducted in partnership with Lightspeed Research from April 2 to April 12, 2010. The sample consisted of 701 adults 18+ who are parents of children 0-6 or currently pregnant and live in homes built before 1980. There was also an oversample of approximately 469 parents in the ten markets where lead poisoning prevalence is the highest: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Detroit, Baltimore, Washington DC, Milwaukee, Atlanta and Portland.

The Coalition to End Childhood Lead Poisoning
The Coalition to End Childhood Lead Poisoning designs, develops and promotes programs, policies and direct services to eradicate childhood lead poisoning and create green and healthy homes for all children. For more information about the Coalition to End Childhood Lead Poisoning, visit www.leadsafe.org.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
EPA leads the nation's environmental science, research, education and assessment efforts. The mission of the Environmental Protection Agency is to protect human health and the environment. Since 1970, EPA has been working for a cleaner, healthier environment for the American people. For more information about EPA, visit www.epa.gov.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
HUD is the nation's housing agency committed to sustaining homeownership; creating affordable housing opportunities for low-income Americans; and supporting the homeless, elderly, people with disabilities and people living with AIDS. The Department also promotes economic and community development and enforces the nation's fair housing laws. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at www.hud.gov and espanol.hud.gov.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Merkley+Partners
Merkley+Partners is a full service marketing and advertising agency providing strategic direction to clients and creating print, broadcast, digital, social, viral, brand identity and CRM programs. Merkley clients include Mercedes-Benz, AXA Equitable, Arby's, Pinnacle Foods LLC and Schering-Plough. The agency was founded in 1993 and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Omnicom Group Inc., a leading worldwide communications company.

Media Contacts:
Coalition to End Childhood Lead Poisoning
Becca Jackson
ceclp@leadsafe.org

EPA Press Office
Dale Kemery
202-564-7839
kemery.dale@epa.gov

HUD Press Office
Shantae Goodloe
202-708-0685
shantae.m.goodloe@hud.gov

Ad Council Press Office
news@adcouncil.org

SAMHSA, Ad Council and Inspire USA Foundation Launch National Suicide Prevention Campaign for Teens

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 12:17:51 GMT

Suicide is the Third Leading Cause of Death among 15-24 Year Olds

Rockville, MD. (March 31, 2010) - The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), working in collaboration with the Ad Council and the Inspire USA Foundation, announced today the launch of a national public service announcement campaign designed to reduce the incidence of suicide and suicide attempts among teens in the United States.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among 15-24 year-olds, following unintended injuries and homicide. While suicides account for approximately 1.4 percent of all deaths in the United States annually, they comprise 12 percent of deaths among this age group. In 2006, 4,189 people between ages 15 and 24 died by suicide. Furthermore, for every youth who died by suicide, it is estimated that 100-200 attempts are made.

"Suicide is a preventable tragedy," said SAMHSA Administrator Pamela S. Hyde, J.D. "That's why we have made it an explicit part of our top priority at SAMHSA - prevention of substance abuse and mental illness. We are aligning and bringing to bear the full force of our resources to reduce the risk and increase the protective factors that are linked with suicide. This new public service announcement campaign is a critical step in raising awareness among young people that there are places where they can turn for help."

"Our new campaign with SAMHSA and Inspire USA connects with teens by identifying with the various challenges they are facing, while empowering them to cope by showing them how their peers have made it through," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "These ads and our online resources will give teens hope and this campaign has the potential to save many lives."

In an effort to provide support for teens who may be contemplating suicide, SAMHSA and Ad Council launched the Teen Suicide Prevention campaign. Created by DDB New York through the Ad Council, the We Can Help Us effort includes television, radio, print and interactive PSAs, as well as in-school and mall posters, directed at 13-17 year-olds. The ads were based on the understanding that teens face a myriad of problems and many are seeking effective ways to cope with them.

The PSAs tell teens that they are not alone in their struggles with emotional and mental health problems, and that other teens have successfully worked through the same issues. Young people seeking help are urged to visit www.reachout.com, where they can hear success stories and strategies from teens.

The reachout.com Web site was developed by the Inspire USA Foundation, an organization that seeks to promote the mental health and wellbeing of young people. Reach Out integrates youth generated, expert-reviewed information and real-life stories with opportunities to connect with others in a supportive, safe environment.

Issues covered include warning signs for suicide, depression, eating disorders, as well as advice on relationships and coping strategies. The site includes videos, audio stories and other interactive features. Visitors can also view a series of animations that bring to life stories submitted by teens. Teens' stories were shared with animation studios around the world who each added their unique artistic sensibilities to the animations, which also can be shared as viral videos.

Each page on reachout.com includes a prominent call-out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), a resource for individuals who are in crisis and need immediate help and support.

"Walk into any American high school classroom and the odds are that two of the young people before you will have attempted suicide over the past 12 months," said Jack Heath, president of the Inspire USA Foundation. "Through our collaboration with SAMHSA and the Ad Council, the We Can Help Us campaign can bring a message of hope to literally millions of young Americans having a tough time."

"At DDB, we were motivated to do our part to further awareness of the critically important issue of teen suicide," said Peter Hempel, president, DDB New York. "The campaign creative is very positive in tone, to give those affected a sense of hope at a very dark time in their lives," he added.

To extend the reach of the PSA campaign to teens nationwide, the Ad Council and SAMHSA will be collaborating with Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), National Organizations for Youth Safety (NOYS) and a number of other youth and mental health organizations. The campaign will also be promoted on social media channels including Facebook www.facebook.com/Samhsa, www.facebook.com/ReachOutUSA, www.facebook.com/AdCouncil) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/samhsagov, www.twitter.com/AdCouncil), as well as the Ad Council's new social media site, MyAdCouncil.org.

SAMHSA (www.samhsa.gov) is a public health agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Its mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America's communities.

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Inspire USA Foundation (www.inspireusafoundation.org) is a 501c3 nonprofit established in San Francisco in 2007. Inspire's mission is to help young Americans lead happier lives. Inspire takes a strength-based, public health approach to its work with a focus on mental health promotion and the prevention of high risk behavior, with a particular interest in suicide prevention.

Contact:
SAMHSA Press Office
240-276-2130
Jane Yin

Inspire USA Foundation
310-948-3609
jane@jyspr.com

Ad Council Press Office
212-984-1964
news@adcouncil.org

New National Survey Shows that More than a Quarter of Youth aged 12 to 20 Drank Alcohol in the Past Month

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 10:23:18 GMT
SAMHSA and Ad Council Launch National Underage Drinking Prevention Campaign

Rockville, MD, March 25, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -�More than a quarter of youth aged 12-20 (27.6 percent) drank alcohol in the past month, according to a survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The study shows that the underage drinking rates were as high as 40 percent in some states such as North Dakota and Vermont.

In a major effort to combat the epidemic of underage drinking, SAMHSA and the Ad Council today launched a new series of national public service advertisements to encourage parents to talk to their children about drinking alcohol at an early age. The campaign and study are being released in conjunction with Alcohol Awareness Month (April) and as part of the Surgeon General's "Call to Action to Prevent and Reduce Underage Drinking." The PSAs are being distributed to media outlets throughout the country and will also be available on line at the campaign's�online fulfillment.

Alcohol is the most widely used substance of abuse among America's youth. Alcohol contributes to the three leading causes of death among 12-20-year-olds (unintentional injury, homicide and suicide). And research shows that those who start drinking before age 15 are six times more likely to have alcohol problems as adults than those who start drinking at age 21 or older.
The study also reveals that nationwide, approximately 8.6 percent of past-month drinkers aged 12-20 purchased their own alcohol the last time they drank. The rates were among the highest in Louisiana and the District of Columbia (18.8 percent) and among the lowest in Alaska (3.1 percent) and New Mexico (3.7 percent).

The data were drawn from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), using combined 2006-2008 data in estimates of past month alcohol use and self-purchase of alcohol among persons aged 12-20. The report will be available at: http://oas.samhsa.gov/2k10/180/SR180UADhtml.pdf

"Prevention is the number one priority of SAMHSA, and reducing underage drinking is a key part of that effort. Underage drinking is a national crisis putting the lives of millions of Americans at risk as well as the futures of many of our youth," said SAMHSA Administrator Pamela S. Hyde, J.D. "The national educational campaign SAMHSA is undertaking with the Ad Council aims at bringing to bear the most effective weapon against underage drinking - conversations between parents and their children."
Created by ad agency Deutsch Inc. through the Ad Council, the new PSAs aim to reach parents of children ages 11-15, with an emphasis on parents of middle school children who have not yet started drinking. The television, radio, magazine, newspaper and Internet ads are designed to reduce and delay the onset of underage drinking by increasing communication between parents and youth. The ads encourage parents to talk early, talk often and get others involved.

"Despite its prevalence and serious consequences, many parents underestimate the extent to which their children use alcohol and even consider it inevitable," said Peggy Conlon, president & CEO of The Advertising Council. "These new compelling ads and interactive components will continue to build on our efforts to create a greater sense of urgency for parents and encourage them to talk to their children early and often about the dangers of alcohol."

The PSA campaign includes�resources�for parents that illustrate the short and long-term consequences of underage drinking and for tips on talking with their kids about alcohol. The site features an action plan that parents can personalize for their children to help start the conversation and sharable resources to send to family members, peers, and other adult influencers on their child's decision to drink. In an effort to further the reach of the campaign to parents online, a social media program will also kick off this week, in cooperation with Nickelodeon's Parents Connect (www.ParentsConnect.com).

"The statistics show that in large and growing numbers, our underage kids, yours and mine, real kids in the real world are drinking," said Val DiFebo, CEO of Deutsch NY, a subsidiary of Deutsch, Inc., and Ad Council Campaign Review Committee member. "Our mission is to get parents to consider that it could be their kid, and encourage open, ongoing dialogues. We are proud to be part of this important messaging to help raise awareness, and influence behavior to help prevent underage drinking."
In addition to these ads, SAMHSA and the Ad Council will launch culturally relevant PSAs designed specifically to reach parents in the Hispanic, Chinese and American Indian communities.

The Ad Council and SAMHSA first launched the national Underage Drinking Prevention campaign in November 2005. According to the Ad Council's tracking study, since the launch, there has been a significant increase in the number of parents who are extremely concerned about underage drinking with their level of concern now comparable to issues, including sex, drug use and academic performance.

SAMHSA is a public health agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The agency is responsible for improving the accountability, capacity and effectiveness of the nation's substance abuse prevention, addictions, treatment and mental health services delivery system. SAMHSA can be reached at�www.samhsa.gov.

The Advertising Council is a private, non-profit organization that has been the largest producer of PSAs in the nation since 1942. To learn more about the Ad Council and its campaigns, visit�www.adcouncil.org.

Deutsch Inc.(www.deutschinc.com) is a multi-disciplinary marketing communications agency.

Contact:
SAMHSA Press Office
240-276-2130

Ad Council Press Office
news@adcouncil.org

Americans for the Arts, Ad Council and NAMM Foundation Launch New Print PSAs Encouraging Parents to "Feed Your Kids" the Arts

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 10:53:19 GMT

New print PSAs emphasize the importance of the arts and arts education

In an effort to promote the need for more music and arts education opportunities for children the Ad Council has teamed up with Americans for the Arts and the NAMM Foundation to announce the launch of new newspaper and magazine public service advertisements (PSAs) from The Arts. Ask for More. campaign. The PSAs are an extension of an ongoing national PSA campaign launched in 2001 and designed to increase parental involvement in championing music and arts education both in and out of school, including through community programs. The national multimedia public service advertising campaign targets parents and caregivers of children pre-K to 8th grade.

The benefits of an arts education are well-documented and far-reaching, but many children simply don't get enough on a regular basis. According to a 2005 Harris Poll, 40 percent of parents say they do not know how to get involved with encouraging arts education for their children, and 62 percent of parents today still believe that other people or organizations are better suited to take action towards increasing their children's involvement in arts education.

Studies show that kids actively engaged in music and arts education are likely to have higher SAT scores than those with little to no arts involvement. Further research indicates that the arts:

Allow kids to express themselves creatively and bolster their self-confidence;

Teach kids to be more tolerant and open;

Improve kids' overall academic performance;

Keep students engaged in school and less likely to drop out.

The new print PSAs, created pro bono by Leo Burnett, emphasize the benefits of the arts and arts education. In the campaign ads, the arts and arts education are equated with a healthy diet. Just as kids need to have good nutrition on a daily basis, kids also need to have their daily serving of the arts. Parents are encouraged to "feed your kids the arts." The campaign also stresses that some art is not enough and reinforces this with the tagline: The Arts. Ask for More.

"Our partnership with Americans for the Arts has encouraged parents and children to experience and participate in all forms of the arts during the last eight years," said Peggy Conlon, President and CEO of the Advertising Council. "These new PSAs will continue to communicate the important role parents play in encouraging arts education and the many benefits in children's lives."

The PSAs direct parents to visit www.AmericansForTheArts.org where they will find 10 simple ways on how to include the arts in their children's lives, including registering their children for school and community programs, reinforcing the benefits of the arts in their conversations, and communicating the importance of arts education with teachers, principals and elected officials. All creative ads for the campaign are available for viewing on the websites of both Americans for the Arts (www.AmericansForTheArts.org/public_awareness) and the Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org).

"We believe that a child's education is not complete unless it includes the arts. Americans for the Arts works to ensure that the arts are a proven integral part of every child's development, preparing them for school, work, and life. Parents are key to making this happen. This PSA campaign gives parents the tips and tools for providing more arts education opportunities for their children in both school and their communities," said Robert L. Lynch, president and CEO of Americans for the Arts.

"We hear from parents and community members from all over the country that there is great concern about narrowing the school curriculum for children in school, " said Mary Luehrsen, executive director of the NAMM Foundation. "Parents want their kids involved in music and the arts as part of a complete education and this campaign encourages community engagement to achieve the best for kids - both now and in the future."

The Arts Education campaign has more than 350 grassroots partners in all 50 states and major media markets, featuring localized television advertisements, as well as localizable radio and print advertisements. Per the Ad Council's model, all of the PSAs will run in advertising space that is entirely donated by the media.

Leo Burnett USA (www.leoburnett.com)
Leo Burnett USA helps build many of the world's most valuable brands, including McDonald's, Disney, P&G, Kellogg and Nintendo. As the most awarded agency at the Effie Awards for five straight years, Leo Burnett USA is the "Most Effective Agency in America." Leo Burnett holds people at the center of its strategic thinking, technological innovation and creative ideas, focusing first and foremost on human behavior before attempting to tell a brand's story. The country's second largest agency brand, as ranked by Advertising Age, Leo Burnett USA is the flagship of Leo Burnett Worldwide, a global network of over 200 operating units, including a variety of specialty marketing services and over 90 full-service advertising agencies in 82 countries.

Americans for the Arts
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Americans for the Arts is the leading nonprofit organization for advancing the arts in America. With offices in Washington, DC, and New York City, Americans for the Arts is dedicated to representing and serving local communities and creating opportunities for every American to participate in and appreciate all forms of the arts. Visit us online at www.AmericansForTheArts.org.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

The NAMM Foundation (www.nammfoundation.org)
The NAMM Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing active participation in music making across the lifespan by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving and public service programs from the international music products industry. NAMM is an official partner and sponsor of the campaign.

Contacts:
AFTA
Liz Bartolomeo
press@artsusa.org
202-371-2830

Ad Council Press Office
news@adcouncil.org
212-984-1964

President Bill Clinton and President George W. Bush Launch Television PSA to Encourage Continued Support for the Haiti Earthquake Victims

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 11:44:38 GMT
PSA Encourages all Americans to donate to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund
NEW YORK and WASHINGTON, D.C., February 24, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -�In an effort to continue to encourage Americans to support the relief efforts in Haiti, Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush appear in a new television PSA released by the Ad Council today. In the new spot, the Presidents acknowledge the generosity of Americans following the tragedy and communicate the immediate and long-term needs in Haiti. Viewers are directed to donate to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund (CBHF), which will help those who are most in need of food, water, shelter, medical care and support.

In the aftermath of the earthquake, President Obama asked Presidents Clinton and Bush to help raise funds for the immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts in Haiti. As a result, the two Presidents established CBHF to respond to unmet needs in the country, foster economic opportunity, improve the quality of life over the long-term for those affected, and assist the people of Haiti as they rebuild their lives and "build back better." To date, CBHF has received more than 200,000 contributions.

The TV spot directs viewers to visit�www.ClintonBushHaitiFund.org�where they can donate to CBHF through a secure online donation page. Americans can also donate by text messaging the word "QUAKE" to 20222, which will charge $10 to their cell phone bill. The PSA is available in :15, :30 and :60 formats and was filmed on February 4, 2010.

"In the month following the earthquake, the outpouring of donations from generous individuals all over the world has enabled organizations on the ground in Haiti to deliver much needed supplies and save countless lives," President Clinton said. "But the road to recovery in Haiti has just begun, and the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund will continue to work with organizations and the people of Haiti to build back better. We hope this PSA will encourage people to give, not just today, but over the months and years to come."

"President Clinton and I are grateful to all those who have made donations, large and small, to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund," President Bush said. "In the months and years ahead, we will work hard to spend the money on sound rebuilding plans that will ensure a better future for the Haitian people. We believe this PSA will encourage Americans to continue to give what they can."

The Clinton Bush Haiti Fund is working with and supporting the efforts of reputable 501(c)(3) non-governmental and non-profit organizations, and Presidents Clinton and Bush oversee the CBHF through their respective nonprofit organizations, the William J. Clinton Foundation and Communities Foundation of Texas. One hundred percent of donations made to the Clinton Foundation and the Communities Foundation of Texas go directly to relief efforts.

The Ad Council is distributing the PSA to television stations nationwide. Per the Ad Council's model, the PSA will air in advertising time that is donated by the media.

The Ad Council distributed a television PSA featuring the Presidents shortly after the earthquake to encourage support for CBHF. Additionally, the Ad Council joined with the American Red Cross and First Lady Michelle Obama to launch television and radio PSAs featuring Mrs. Obama in support of the Red Cross' relief efforts. Furthermore, the Ad Council helped produce and distribute PSAs in partnership with Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton following the Tsunami in Southeast Asia in 2004 and Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

The following companies have donated production and digital distribution services for the new PSA: GSD&M Idea City, 1080, Magno Sound & Video, DG-FastChannel Network and The AdSpot. Furthermore, the National Captioning Institute has donated their closed captioning services.

Additionally, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and the National Cable & Telecommunications Association (NCTA) have offered their support by engaging their members and helping with PSA distribution.

For more information about CBHF, visit�www.ClintonBushHaitiFund.org, become a fan on Facebook at�www.facebook.com/clintonbushhaitifund�or follow the Fund on Twitter at�http://twitter.com/cbhaitifund.

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer efforts from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public.

Media Contact:>/b>
Ad Council Press Office
212-984-1964
news@adcouncil.org

Legacy and the Ad Council Team Up to Help Smokers "Re-Learn Life Without Cigarettes"

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 11:28:50 GMT

ALBANY, N.Y., February 24, 2010 /PRNewswire/ - Tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable death in the United States and a staggering six million people worldwide will lose their lives to tobacco next year. Today, LegacySM and the Ad Council have partnered to help smokers "re-learn" life without cigarettes with EX�, a national quit smoking campaign sponsored by the National Alliance for Tobacco Cessation (NATC), in order to help the 43 million Americans who smoke to finally quit. The campaign is being unveiled this morning in conjunction with New York State's recently renewed membership to the NATC.
"We are delighted to be one of a number of organizations in several states and at the national level in this timely effort to focus on reducing smoking rates in New York and across the country," said Commissioner Richard F. Daines.
The partnership will begin airing this month and uses a number of approaches to engage smokers through different mediums and venues including television and radio spots, poster placement, giveaways and social media.
"This year, there have been several historic changes in public policy related to tobacco prevention and cessation. From the passage of the Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act increasing the Federal excise tax on tobacco to the Family Smoking Prevention and Control Act securing authority for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to regulate tobacco. The movement to reduce the number of smokers in America is evolving," said Cheryl G. Healton, DrPH, President and CEO of Legacy. "What has yet to change are the financial resources available to help smokers quit, so we have had to become even more creative with our public education strategy and are confident that our PSA partnership with the Ad Council will effectively supplement our traditional paid media efforts in this campaign."
Quitting smoking is one of the most difficult and important lifestyle changes a person can make. Seventy percent of smokers in America want to quit, but in 2000, only about five percent of smokers were successful in quitting long-term. Therefore, it is essential that smokers have access to all the necessary tools and resources to not only help them take the steps towards quitting, but to ultimately help them quit for good.
"EX is a wonderful campaign that provides smokers with the motivation, resources and peer-to-peer support that will give them the best chance for success in quitting," said Peggy Conlon, President and CEO of the Ad Council. "We are proud to join Legacy, and leverage our pro bono resources, to help further the reach and impact of this life-saving effort."
With the help of clinical partner Mayo Clinic, EX provides evidence-based tools to help smokers quit, including information that can help them prepare for a quit attempt by 1) "Re-learning" their thinking on the behavioral aspects of smoking and how different smoking triggers can be overcome with practice and preparation; 2) "Re-learning" their knowledge of addiction and how medications can increase their chances for quitting success; and 3) "Re-learning" their ideas of how support from friends and family members can play a critical role in quitting.
EX uses an innovative Web site (www.BecomeAnEX.org) as a convening point for smokers who want to quit and collaborate on their successes and challenges in the difficult quit process. The new public service elements from Legacy and the Ad Council partnership will enhance and supplement the current campaign which includes an iPhone application that helps smokers quit on the go and will be available through iTunes this March. The public service ads were created by GSD&M Idea City and will run and air in donated advertising time and space.
"This latest round of EX creative work gets to the heart of helping people save their own lives," said Duff Stewart, president and CEO of GSD&M Idea City. "Our partnership with Legacy is a great example of what we like to do best -- make a difference."
PARTNERSHIP ELEMENTS

Friends and Forklift TV PSA Spots

The goal of these spots is to make smokers think about the triggers that make them want to smoke. The PSA's tell smokers that re-learning those behaviors without cigarettes will make it easier to quit. In the spots, the characters struggle to re-learn the triggers without cigarettes and are ultimately successful. The spots empathize with smokers and give them a sense of hope that, while the quitting process is never easy, it's much more manageable with the right approach.
Man on the Street Radio PSA Spots

The spot sends a regular guy out to talk to real smokers about what makes them smoke. Based on the unscripted insights, the man on the street helps the smokers discover what it will take to re-learn life without cigarettes.
Posters

To make bar and restaurant smokers aware of their habits, the campaign is filling bathroom posters with bad pick-up lines, highlighting an important insight: Bad pick-up lines can make you want to smoke. In gyms, the partnership reaches smokers in a different way, by using type to convey the emotion of triggers. For example, one poster is filled with the words "tick, tock," ultimately driving smokers to BecomeAnEX.org to re-learn boredom without cigarettes.
Air Fresheners

EX-branded car air fresheners will help giver smokers looking to quit a fresh start when they re-learn driving without cigarettes.
In 2006-07, Legacy, the national public health foundation best known for its truth� youth-smoking prevention campaign pilot tested EX in four markets throughout the country: Buffalo, N.Y.; San Antonio, Texas; Grand Rapids, Mich.; and Baltimore, Md. A new study released in the September 2009 issue of Social Marketing Quarterly found that EX was a trusted and empathetic brand and that smokers who were thinking more about quitting or were more motivated to quit were significantly more receptive to the EX brand than those who had not yet reached that point in their quit process. As a result of the successful pilot program, in 2007, Legacy brought together several national organizations and several states to form the NATC and launch EX nationally. The NATC is a group of states, non-profit organizations, foundations and corporations, all dedicated to helping people quit smoking.
Founding members of the NATC include:

The American Cancer Society

The American Heart Association

National Cancer Institute

C-Change

Legacy

Mayo Clinic

The Rapides Foundation

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation

The Association of State and Health Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO)

Arkansas Department of Health

Arizona Department of Health Services Bureau of Tobacco Education and Prevention

Connecticut Department of Public Health

D.C. Tobacco Free Families, a partnership of D.C. Department of Health, American Lung Association of D.C., and the American Cancer Society

Indiana Tobacco Prevention and Cessation

Kentucky Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Program

The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living

Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals Bureau of Primary Care and Rural Health Tobacco Control Program

Missouri Foundation for Health

New York Department of Health

North Carolina Division of Public Health

North Dakota Department of Health Division of Tobacco Prevention & Control

Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust Center for Health Promotions

Oregon Public Health Division Department of Human Services Tobacco Prevention and Education Program

Rhode Island Department of Health

Vermont Department of Health

Washington State Department of Health Tobacco Prevention and Control Program

Wyoming Department of Health

EX�

EX� is a collaborative public health campaign presented by the National Alliance for Tobacco Cessation, a partnership of the nation's leading public health organizations and states. The campaign helps smokers prepare to quit and guides them to useful resources that foster successful quit attempts including theEX plan, a free personalized quit plan available on the campaign's Web site www.BecomeAnEX.org. EX is the culmination of several years of research and testing, combining an understanding of the power of nicotine addiction with messages that resonate with and motivate smokers toward behavior change. TheEX approach is peer to peer and focuses on "re-learning life without cigarettes" by encouraging smokers to think differently about the process of quitting. The campaign, which began airing nationwide in March 2008, includes television, radio, online and out-of-home advertising. The EX Web site helps smokers create their own individual plan to quit and connects them to a virtual community of other smokers where they can share stories and strategies about quitting. Founding members of the NATC include numerous states and the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, the National Cancer Institute, the American Legacy Foundation, C-Change, The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) and clinical partner, the Mayo Clinic.
The Advertising Council

The Ad Council (www.AdCouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote national public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and federal government agencies. The Ad Council's campaigns focus on improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.
CONTACT:
Julia Cartwright
202-454-5596
jcartwright@legacyforhealth.org

Ellyn Fisher
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

Visit the campaign page

SAMHSA and Ad Council to Launch Mental Health Campaign for the African American Community

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:01:11 GMT
PSAs debut at Howard University and Colleges and Universities Nationwide as part of First Annual HBCU National Mental Health Awareness Day
Washington, D.C., February 23, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -�The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), working in collaboration with the Ad Council and the Stay Strong Foundation, announced today the launch of a national public service advertising (PSA) campaign designed to raise awareness of mental health problems among young adults in the African American community. The new PSAs were unveiled at a Black History Month event at Howard University this morning to coincide with the first annual HBCU National Mental Health Awareness Day. The launch was telecast to colleges and universities nationwide.

Mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, are widespread in the U.S. and often misunderstood. According to SAMHSA, in 2008 there were an estimated 9.8 million adults aged 18 or older living with serious mental illness. Among adults, the prevalence of serious mental illness is highest in the 18 to 25 age group, yet this age group is also the least likely to receive services or counseling. In 2008, 6.0 percent of African Americans ages 18-25 had serious mental illness in the past year. Overall, only 58.7 percent of Americans with serious mental illness received care within the past 12 months and the percentage of African Americans receiving services is only 44.8 percent.

"Raising understanding and attention to these issues within the African American community will provide greater opportunities for those needing help to receive effective mental health services," said Kathryn A. Power, Director of SAMHSA's Center for Mental Health Services.

Created�pro bono�by Grey New York through the Ad Council, the campaign aims to promote acceptance of mental health problems within the African American community by encouraging, educating and inspiring young adults to step up and talk openly about mental health problems. The television, radio, print and Web ads feature real personal stories of African Americans dealing with mental health problems, and they aim to engage those in the community to support young adults who need help. The PSAs direct audiences to visit a new website, www.storiesthatheal.samhsa.gov, where they can learn more about mental health problems and how to get involved.

"According to our research and the leading mental health experts, young adults with mental health problems are more likely to seek help if social acceptance is broadened and they receive support and services early on," said Peggy Conlon, president & CEO of the Ad Council. "We are proud to continue our partnership with SAMHSA to address these issues in the African American community and help create the necessary societal change that will decrease the negative attitudes that surround mental illness, and ultimately inspire those who want help to get it."

Terrie M. Williams, MSW, co-founder of The Stay Strong Foundation, collaborated on the development of the Web videos and PSA materials and serves as a campaign spokesperson. The Stay Strong Foundation works to support, educate and inspire African American youth through a series of programs and events that are designed to raise awareness of teen issues, promote the personal well-being of young people and enhance their educational and professional development.

"It is the work of the Stay Strong Foundation and my personal mission to educate everyone, and in particular the African American community, about depression and its impact on our communities," said Williams. "Every day so many of us wear the "mask" of wellness that hides our pain from the world. Now is the time to identify and name our pain-minus the myths and the stigmas-and seek the help so many of us need."

SAMHSA's Campaign for Mental Health Recovery partners include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institute of Mental Health, state mental health agencies, leading researchers on stigma and a broad coalition of stakeholders, including organizations that represent provider organizations and consumer and family member groups. The Campaign held a series of regional meetings to develop a grassroots network to support the Campaign and provide assistance with anti-stigma efforts to states and local communities.

A resource guide entitled, "Developing a Stigma Reduction Initiative," is also a part of the campaign and is based on the evaluation and lessons learned from the Elimination of Barriers Initiative. The guide provides information on how to mount a statewide anti-stigma campaign, examples of outreach materials, reports on the best practices for stigma reduction, and lists important resources for technical assistance. Copies of the guide can be downloaded at www.mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/publication/allpubs/sma06-4176�or by calling SAMHSA's Health Information Network at 1-877-SAMHSA7. SAMHSA also maintains a national technical assistance center called the ADS Center (Resource Center to Promote Acceptance, Dignity, and Social Inclusion) to help States, communities, and individuals get the necessary information and resources to counter misperceptions, prejudice and discrimination associated with mental illnesses. The ADS Center can be accessed by calling 1-800-540-0320 or visiting www.promoteacceptance.samhsa.gov.

"In general, mental health problems are difficult to talk about," said Rob Baiocco, EVP/Executive Creative Director and managing partner of Grey New York. "But the second someone opens up and tells their specific personal story you instantly realize what they are dealing with. It's such an immediate, intuitive and emotional understanding. And from that understanding comes the healing."

Historically Black Colleges and Universities' Center for Excellence in Substance Abuse and Mental Health at Morehouse School of Medicine, a grant funded through (SAMHSA), created National HBCU Mental Health Awareness Day. The HBCU Mental Health Awareness Day is the first national effort to promote behavioral health on HBCUs. The all-day event is being co-hosted by three additional HBCU institutions, Howard, Elizabeth City State University and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. The purpose is to increase public knowledge and student awareness about mental health issues and to foster a more supportive and informed environment on HBCU campuses and in the community. For more information, visit�www.hbcucfe.net.

The Ad Council and SAMHSA first launched the Campaign for Mental Health Recovery nationwide in December 2006. Additional public service efforts designed to reach Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans and Native Americans will also be launched this spring. To view the ads, please visit�www.adcouncil.org. The PSAs will air in advertising time that will be entirely donated by the media.

SAMHSA is a public health agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The agency is responsible for improving the accountability, capacity and effectiveness of the nation's substance abuse prevention, addictions, treatment and mental health services delivery system.�SAMHSA can be reached at�www.samhsa.gov.

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

The Stay Strong Foundation (SSF) is a 501(c)(3) organization founded by Terrie M. Williams and Xavier Artis in 2001 to empower America's youth. The Foundation encourages corporate and individual responsibility; develops educational resources for youth and youth organizations; provides and coordinates internships; sets up mentoring opportunities; and facilitates visits by prominent individuals and business professionals to schools, libraries, youth organizations and group homes.

Media Contacts:
SAMHSA Press Office
240-276-2130

Ad Council Press Office
212-984-1964
news@adcouncil.org

Learn more about the campaign

New Public Service Ads are part of the First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move! Initiative to Combat Childhood Obesity

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 14:21:14 GMT

PSAs Featuring Scholastic Media's Maya & Miguel and Warner Bros.' Looney Tunes' Legendary Characters, along with Top Athletes, Encourage Children to Play Every Day

WASHINGTON, D.C., February 9, 2010 - As part of First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move! initiative, she has partnered with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Ad Council today to launch a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to address childhood obesity.

Earlier today, the First Lady Michelle Obama kicked off the national campaign Let's Move!, building on effective strategies at all levels and in all sectors, to engage families and communities and mobilize both public and private sector resources to solve the childhood obesity challenge within one generation.

Created pro bono by Warner Bros. Consumer Products and Scholastic Media, the PSAs leverage the fun aspects and family appeal of each partner's characters to reach children with important messages about being healthy.

One series of ads features the Looney Tunes characters as they are paired up with professional athletes to deliver an active lifestyle message that tells kids you don't have to be a pro to "Be A Player." The Looney Tunes' beloved characters appear alongside New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees and Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant. These ads were developed in collaboration with the NFL PLAY 60 and NBA FIT initiatives. In addition, pro skateboarder Tony Hawk and Olympic Gold Medalist Misty May-Treanor are featured in PSAs aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle and increasing physical fitness for kids.

Another series of PSAs guided by the creative expertise of ad agency Casanova Pendrill, features Maya & Miguel (commonly seen on PBS KIDS GO!) and encourages children to the "Take the Maya & Miguel Challenge" as a way to get more physically active and eat healthy. The Maya & Miguel materials produced by Scholastic were created in both English and Spanish to leverage the characters' strong appeal to all Hispanic families, as well as general audiences.

"We are delighted to join Michelle Obama and the Department of Health & Human Services in their efforts to encourage children throughout the country to lead healthier lifestyles," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "These new PSAs are a wonderful extension of our ongoing campaign, and Mrs. Obama's new Let's Move! initiative, and I believe children will be encouraged by the characters and athletes that they admire, and ultimately, motivated to get healthy."

According to HHS' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the percentage of young people who are overweight has more than tripled since 1980, with more than 9 million school age children over the age of 6 in the U.S. considered overweight. In addition to the psychological and social issues of stigmatization, overweight children are at far greater risk of growing into adults who have cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and other chronic diseases that may reduce the length and quality of their lives. A CDC report found that the health cost of obesity in the U.S. is as high as $147 billion annually.

The full PSA campaign will be distributed to media outlets nationwide in March. The PSAs are an extension of HHS' and the Ad Council's "Get Up and Play" campaign. The TV, radio, print, outdoor and Web PSAs encourage children to participate in activities that they enjoy in an effort to be more physically active. The overall campaign reminds kids and their families that playing an hour each day is an important part of being healthy and demonstrates the fun they can have doing it. Each series of PSAs directs audiences to the First Lady's new website www.letsmove.gov, where they will find links to the HHS and Ad Council-sponsored www.SmallStep.gov, a fun interactive destination that provides helpful information on healthy eating and physical activity.

"We are honored that the Looney Tunes characters are supporting Michelle Obama, the Department of Health and Human Services and the Ad Council in this campaign to combat the problem of childhood obesity in the United States," said Brad Globe, president, Warner Bros. Consumer Products. "Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Tweety and Taz uniquely deliver this important message in an entertaining way, and are the perfect ambassadors of fun and active lifestyles for families across the country."

The PSAs are a continuation of the Ad Council and HHS' successful Childhood Obesity Prevention campaign that first launched in 2005 and the Ad Council's Coalition for Healthy Children initiative, which encourages marketers and the media to adopt consistent healthy lifestyle messages. Previous PSAs for the campaign and Coalition have featured characters from DreamWorks' Shrek, Warner Bros. Pictures' Where the Wild Things Are film, NFL players, LPGA athletes and U.S. Olympic Gold Medalists. The NFL, NBA, Warner Bros. Entertainment and Scholastic are each participants in the Ad Council's Coalition.

Per the Ad Council's model, all of the new PSAs will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media. To date, the Childhood Obesity Prevention campaign has received more than $179 million in donated media support and more than 1 in every 3 children between the ages of 6 to 12 yrs. has reported recognizing the campaign. Furthermore, in 2009, children said they cared more about getting enough physical activity than they did prior to launching the campaign's first round of PSAs in 2005 (68 percent in 2009 vs. 55 percent in 2005).

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
The Department of Health and Human Services is the United States government's principal agency for protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services, especially for those who are least able to help themselves. The department includes more than 300 programs, covering a wide spectrum of activities, including medical and social science research, preventing outbreak of infectious disease, including immunization services, assuring food and drug safety, welfare, and Medicare and Medicaid.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

The goal of the Ad Council's Coalition for Healthy Children is to help address the obesity crisis that confronts our nation and its children. Its mission is to provide clear, consistent, research-based messages to children and parents on the importance of practicing a healthier lifestyle and offer them the means to do it. This can be achieved by harnessing the combined strengths of marketers, media companies, non-profit groups and government agencies. The Coalition's members have made a commitment to the promotion of healthy living to our nation's families and have agreed to incorporate the Coalition's messages into their own communications programs. For more information about the Coalition, please visit www.HealthyChildrenCoalition.org.

LOONEY TUNES and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and � Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
(s09)

Contacts:
The Ad Council
212-984-1964
news@adcouncil.org

HHS Press Office
202-690-6343

CDC, Arthritis Foundation Issue Call to Action to Reduce Growing Burden of Osteoarthritis

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 09:36:30 GMT

National Public Awareness Campaign with Arthritis Foundation and Ad Council to Communicate that "Moving is the Best Medicine"

Washington, DC --The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Arthritis Foundation today announced a major initiative to dramatically reduce the impact of osteoarthritis on Americans. In conjunction with the announcement, the Arthritis Foundation and the Ad Council are unveiling a national public awareness campaign today in response to the recommendations outlined in the action plan, A National Public Health Agenda for Osteoarthritis.

Already the nation's most common cause of disability, the impact of arthritis is slated to increase in the decades to come. One in five adults in the United States (46 million people) has arthritis and an estimated 67 million people will be affected by 2030.

Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is a serious and painful joint disease that currently affects nearly 27 million people in the United States and costs an estimated $5,700 annually per person living with the disease. With the combination of inactivity, obesity, injury and the aging of Americans, the rising prevalence of osteoarthritis is expected to escalate the severe health and economic effects of this disease.

"Now is the time that we as a nation must invest our resources in the prevention of osteoarthritis," said John H. Klippel, MD, president and CEO of the Arthritis Foundation. "This National Public Health Agenda with the CDC and the new public awareness campaign with the Ad Council will dispel the myth that osteoarthritis is an inevitable part of aging and will call on the nation and individuals to take proven steps to prevent and decrease the pain and disability of arthritis."

A National Public Health Agenda for Osteoarthritis
A National Public Health Agenda for Osteoarthritis is the first comprehensive national action plan that calls on health care providers, insurers, policymakers, public health agencies and the public to collectively take the steps necessary to reduce the burden of osteoarthritis. The blueprint includes four intervention strategies including:
o Self-management Education
o Physical Activity
o Injury Prevention
o Weight Management

The Agenda is the result of an 18-month effort by the CDC and the Arthritis Foundation that included the development of two working groups, one focusing on research interventions and the other on policy/communications efforts, and a major summit that brought together more than 75 stakeholders to determine the best strategies for reducing the impact of osteoarthritis.

"This important report will help the public health community speak with a unified voice and focus our collective efforts on actions that we know will make a difference in the lives of people suffering from osteoarthritis," said Dr. Ursula Bauer, director of CDC's National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.

Fight Arthritis Pain Campaign
One recommended strategy and the first step is the launch of a national awareness campaign. The new multimedia public service advertising campaign launched today by the Arthritis Foundation, the Ad Council and the American College of Rheumatology aims to empower people with (or at risk for) osteoarthritis to take simple steps to reduce pain, increase their mobility and help prevent disability caused by osteoarthritis. Created pro bono by the ad agency Y&R in New York, the Fight Arthritis Pain campaign demonstrates that "moving is the best medicine" and features messages about the important role that physical activity and weight reduction play in preventing and managing the pain associated with osteoarthritis.

The campaign includes television, radio, print, outdoor and Web ads that will run in donated advertising time and space and will direct Americans to visit a new website, www.fightarthritispain.org. The site features a risk assessment tool for osteoarthritis, movement tracker, live news feed, community forums and blogs, program and event locator, as well as campaign materials. A social media program will further engage Americans online and direct them to visit the website to access resources.

"Physical activity for those living with osteoarthritis can be daunting because of the pain and discomfort they live with every day," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of The Advertising Council. "Through this wonderful campaign with the Arthritis Foundation, those with or at risk for osteoarthritis will be empowered to increase their movement and ultimately reduce the pain and disability associated with the disease."

Numerous stakeholder groups across the country will be working with the Arthritis Foundation and its chapters to implement the goals outlined in this groundbreaking, multi-year effort.

For more information on fighting osteoarthritis, including a tool for assessing risk of osteoarthritis and simple steps you can take to reduce pain, increase mobility and slow progression of the disease, visit: www.fightarthritispain.org

The Arthritis Foundation is the leading health organization addressing the needs of some 46 million Americans living with arthritis, the nation's most common cause of disability. Founded in 1948, with headquarters in Atlanta, the Arthritis Foundation has multiple service points located throughout the country and offers programs that can decrease the pain and disability associated with arthritis.

The Arthritis Foundation is the largest private, not-for-profit contributor to arthritis research in the world, funding more than $415 million in research grants since 1948. The foundation helps individuals take control of their arthritis by providing public health education; pursuing public policy and legislation; and conducting evidence-based programs to improve the quality of life for those living with arthritis. Information is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-283-7800 or www.arthritis.org.

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:
Sharon Reis
(202) 745-5103
sreis@gymr.com

Morgan Freeman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Tim McGraw, Julia Roberts, Meryl Streep and Reese Witherspoon Join Ad Council and American Red Cross to Launch PSA to Support Victims of Earthquake in Haiti

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 17:53:37 GMT

PSA directs viewers to visit www.redcross.org to support those in need

NEW YORK and LOS ANGELES, January 22, 2010 - In response to the destruction and devastation caused by the earthquake in Haiti, The Advertising Council and the American Red Cross today launched a national television public service advertisement (PSA) featuring Morgan Freeman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Tim McGraw, Julia Roberts, Meryl Streep and Reese Witherspoon.

In the television PSA, the celebrities encourage all Americans to support relief efforts for the Haitian citizens impacted by the earthquake by donating to the American Red Cross. Viewers are directed to visit www.redcross.org, call 1-800-HELP-NOW or text "HAITI" to 9-0-9-9-9 and $10 will be given automatically to the American Red Cross.

Created pro bono by GSD&M Idea City, with the Creative Artists Agency Foundation helping to coordinate the talent, the PSA is available in :30 format. A Spanish-language TV spot, featuring actress Eva Longoria, will also be available to the media next week. Per the Ad Council's model, the PSAs will air in advertising time that will be donated by the media.

"Since last week's devastating earthquake, we have seen an outpouring of generosity from Americans, who have given their money, their time and their talent to help the victims in Haiti recover," said Peggy Conlon, president & CEO of the Ad Council. "We are so grateful to the many celebrities who immediately agreed to lend their support and voice to this PSA, and we thank the CAA Foundation for their help. We will continue to do what we can to support the Red Cross and others who are helping the victims rebuild their lives during this long-term relief effort."

The Ad Council and the American Red Cross produced and distributed television and radio PSAs featuring First Lady Michelle Obama within days of the earthquake in Haiti. All of the major broadcast and cable networks offered their support for the PSAs prior to their launch. Additionally, earlier this week, the Ad Council joined with the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund to distribute a PSA featuring the former Presidents to encourage all Americans to support the immediate and long-term relief efforts.

"It is clear that what took minutes to destroy will take many years and the collective support from governments and relief agencies across the world to help mend," said Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the American Red Cross, who was in Haiti earlier this week. "Terrible times like these bring out the best in people, and we are grateful for the support being given to the American Red Cross. We are going to do everything we can to help the people of Haiti, and this generosity will help thousands of survivors cope with and recover from their losses."

Magno Sound & Video donated their services for the PSA production and DG-FastChannel Network and The AdSpot have donated their services for the digital distribution. Furthermore, the National Captioning Institute has donated their closed captioning services.

Additionally, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and the National Cable & Telecommunications Association (NCTA) have offered their support by engaging their members and helping with PSA distribution.

About the Ad Council
The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer efforts from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public. For further information about the Ad Council, visit www.adcouncil.org.

About the CAA Foundation
The CAA Foundation (http://foundation.caa.com/) was founded in 1996 by CAA's managing partners and it is the philanthropic arm of the agency. Entirely underwritten by CAA, the Foundation is able to tap into the agency's most plentiful and defining resource - popular culture - to create positive social change. They do this by encouraging volunteerism, facilitating strategic partnerships, granting financial contributions and providing in-kind donations. The Foundation empowers employees, artists and athletes to contribute their time, talent and resources to make a difference, to be of service and to improve conditions worldwide.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization - not a government agency - and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

Contacts:
Ad Council Press Office
news@adcouncil.org

American Red Cross
Public Affairs Desk
media@usa.redcross.org
(202) 303-5551

Former President Bill Clinton and Former President George W. Bush Launch Television PSA to Support Victims of Earthquake in Haiti

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 14:40:15 GMT

PSA Encourages all Americans to donate to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund

NEW YORK and WASHINGTON, D.C., January 19, 2010 - In the aftermath of the earthquake in Haiti, President Obama asked former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush to help raise funds for the immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts in Haiti. In a television PSA released by the Ad Council today, the two Presidents encourage all Americans to donate to the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund (CBHF), which will help those who are most in need of food, water, shelter, medical care and support.

The TV spot directs viewers to visit www.ClintonBushHaitiFund.org where they can donate to CBHF through a secure online donation page. Americans can also donate by text messaging the word "QUAKE" to 20222, which will charge $10 to their cell phone bill. The PSA is available in :30 format and was filmed in the Roosevelt Room in the White House on Saturday, January 16.

"I still believe that Haiti can move beyond its troubled history and this lethal earthquake to emerge a stronger, more secure nation," President Bill Clinton said. "But we can't do it with government support alone: ordinary citizens must fill in the gaps. Little donations make a big difference."

"American citizens and businesses have a tradition of responding to natural disasters with extraordinary generosity," President George W. Bush said. "President Clinton and I are working to tap that spirit of giving to help our neighbors in need in Haiti. I thank the Ad Council for distributing this PSA so that we can get the word out about how to help."

CBHF is designed to identify and fulfill unmet needs, foster economic opportunity, improve the quality of life of those affected over the long term and assist the people of Haiti as they rebuild their lives and country. Presidents Clinton and Bush oversee the Fund through their respective non-profit organizations, the William J. Clinton Foundation and Communities Foundation of Texas. One hundred percent of the donations made to the Clinton Foundation and the Communities Foundation of Texas will go directly to relief efforts.

"We are proud to join with former Presidents Clinton and Bush to raise awareness of their critical relief efforts, which will help the people in Haiti rebuild their lives," according to Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "We are confident that just as when we partnered with the former Presidents after the Tsunami and Katrina tragedies, the American media will generously support this PSA and it will motivate Americans throughout the country to donate to the relief effort."

The Ad Council is distributing the PSA to television stations nationwide. Per the Ad Council's model, the PSA will air in advertising time that is donated by the media.

Immediately following last week's earthquake, the Ad Council joined with the American Red Cross and First Lady Michelle Obama to launch television and radio PSAs featuring Mrs. Obama in support of the Red Cross's relief efforts. Additionally, the Ad Council helped produce and distribute PSAs in partnership with Former Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton following the Tsunami in Southeast Asia in 2004 and Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

The following companies have donated production and digital distribution services for the new PSA: GSD&M Idea City, Magno Sound & Video, DG-FastChannel Network and The AdSpot. Furthermore, the National Captioning Institute has donated their closed captioning services.

Additionally, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and the National Cable & Telecommunications Association (NCTA) have offered their support by engaging their members and helping with PSA distribution.

For more information about CBHF, visit www.ClintonBushHaitiFund.org, become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/clintonbushhaitifund or follow the Fund on Twitter at http://twitter.com/cbhaitifund.

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer efforts from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public.

First Lady Michelle Obama Joins Ad Council and American Red Cross to Launch PSA to Support Victims of Earthquake in Haiti

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 09:36:16 GMT

New PSA directs viewers to visit www.redcross.org to support those in need

NEW YORK and WASHINGTON, DC, January 15, 2010 - In response to the destruction and devastation caused by the earthquake in Haiti, First Lady Michelle Obama has joined The Advertising Council and the American Red Cross to launch a series of national public service advertisements (PSAs). The television and radio PSAs are designed to encourage all Americans to support relief efforts for the Haitian citizens impacted by the earthquake.

"I was eager to join the Ad Council and the Red Cross to launch this call to action in the wake of this week's devastating earthquake," said First Lady Michelle Obama. "The people of Haiti are struggling just to survive. And every one of us has the power to help."

The PSAs encourage audiences to go to www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. On cell phones, viewers can text "HAITI" to 9-0-9-9-9 and $10 will be given automatically to the American Red Cross.

The PSAs are available in :30 formats and were filmed and recorded in the White House Vermeil Room on Thursday, January 14, and produced and released by the Ad Council immediately. The Ad Council and the American Red Cross have also developed digital outdoor and Web PSAs, which are being distributed to digital boards, networks and sites. These additional PSAs do not feature Mrs. Obama.

"The American Red Cross is rushing supplies and disaster management staff to Haiti in the aftermath of this earthquake, and we are so grateful for the financial support that allows us to provide help and hope for people during their time of need," said Gail McGovern, President and CEO of the American Red Cross. "We are truly thankful for these efforts to support our humanitarian mission."

"We know that in times of tragedy and crisis, when our global neighbors need us the most, the American media steps up and offers their immediate and unconditional support. And with the unimaginable crisis in Haiti-it's no different," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "We salute Mrs. Obama and the Administration for their leadership during this difficult time and we're proud to partner with the Red Cross to help raise awareness and encourage support for their critical relief efforts."

The television and radio spots are being distributed to stations nationwide today. Per the Ad Council's model, the PSAs will air in advertising time that is donated by the media.

The following media companies have stated that they will be supporting the PSAs with donated media and distribution assistance: ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC Television Networks, Clear Channel Communications, Comcast, CNN, Headline News, TBS, TNT, TruTV, Cartoon Network, Sundance Channel, IFC, Tribune Television Stations, Discovery Networks, Hallmark Channel, Lifetime Networks, Fox Networks Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group. Lamar Advertising will also be donating space on their digital boards.

Additionally, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), the National Cable & Telecommunications Association (NCTA) and Outdoor Advertising Association of America (OAAA) have offered their support by engaging their members and helping with PSA distribution.

Home Front Communications and Magno Sound & Video donated their services for the PSA production and DG-FastChannel Network, Firtspin and The AdSpot have donated their services for the digital distribution. Furthermore, the National Captioning Institute has donated their closed captioning services.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization - not a government agency - and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer efforts from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public. For further information about the Ad Council, visit www.adcouncil.org.

Ad Council Names Charlie Rutman to Oversee Media Department

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 12:04:17 GMT
NEW YORK, NEW YORK, January 6, 2010 - The Ad Council announced today that it has retained Charlie Rutman through his consulting firm, End Zone Communications, to manage media efforts on behalf of the non-profit organization. Rutman was formerly chief executive officer of MPG North America. He was also president of Carat USA and has held top media positions at DMB&B and Bates.

In this new role, Rutman will direct the Ad Council's Media department, which works to secure donated media support for the organization's national public service advertising (PSA) campaigns. Last year, media outlets donated more than $1.8 billion in advertising time and space for the Ad Council's fifty PSA campaigns.

Rutman will lead national and local media outreach initiatives designed to encourage national and local support of the PSAs in television, radio, magazine, newspaper, outdoor and alternative outlets nationwide. He will help the organization continue to secure high-level partnerships and donated support from major media companies such as Comcast, Time Warner, Clear Channel and Meredith Corporation. Rutman will also provide strategic direction and operational guidance of the Ad Council's regional managing directors in an effort to increase the organization's presence on the local level in the top 50 media markets.

"Charlie has been a leader in the media industry for over 30 years and his significant experience in the areas of strategic planning and marketing will be an invaluable asset to the Ad Council and the critically important issues that we address," said Peggy Conlon, president & CEO of the Ad Council. "Charlie has also been a longtime supporter of the Ad Council and we're thrilled to have him join us."

Rutman first became involved with the Ad Council while chairing its Television Steering Committee, a group of TV executives that meets quarterly to review campaigns and offer strategic direction to increase the industry's support of the Ad Council's TV PSAs.

"I'm looking forward to expanding my efforts on behalf of the Ad Council, which is one of the greatest philanthropic entities that our country has to offer," said Rutman. "The media industry has always been a terrific partner of the Ad Council's and I'm delighted to have the opportunity to develop new media strategies for these many worthwhile causes."

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals volunteer talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to deliver critical messages to the American public. The Ad Council has produced, distributed and promoted thousands of public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas of health & safety, community and education.

Significantly More Teens Think 'That's So Gay' is Wrong as GLSEN's Ad Council Campaign Enters Second Phase

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:48:12 GMT

New Internet Ads and Online Materials to Feature Sirdeaner Walker's Story

NEW YORK, Dec. 10, 2009 - After a remarkably successful first year of the "Think Before You Speak" campaign that accompanied significant shifts in teenage attitude toward the phrase 'that's so gay,' the Ad Council and GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, today launched a much harder-hitting second phase that will focus more directly on the consequences of anti-gay language.

The second phase of the campaign features a variety of provocative banner ads as well as other new thought-provoking online materials. All are made available to download and share at ThinkB4YouSpeak.com. While in the same vein as the campaign's award-winning TV PSAs starring Hilary Duff and Wanda Sykes, the new web-based materials challenge teens to think about the impact their language has on others. One of the banner ads recalls the story of Carl Walker-Hoover, an 11-year-old from Springfield, Mass., who took his life in April after enduring constant bullying at school.

Sirdeaner Walker, who has become a GLSEN spokesperson in the wake of her son Carl's death in April, said, "I am proud to work with GLSEN to raise awareness about an issue that has had such a profound impact on me and my family." Classmates bullied and harassed Carl, calling him "gay" and "fag," among other slurs, despite the fact Carl did not identify as gay. One of the new banner ads displays the phrase "Who are you calling a fag?" When users scroll over the ad, they are confronted with Carl's story.

"I hope Carl's story will help young people realize the impact their hurtful words can have on their peers so that no child will ever feel like the only choice they have is to take their own life," said Walker, who has also testified on Capitol Hill in favor of the Safe Schools Improvement Act, a federal anti-bullying bill.

"Research shows that a significantly higher percentage of young people are choosing to think before they speak," GLSEN Executive Director Eliza Byard said. "Now we're going to challenge teenagers once again by asking them not just to think about what they are saying, but to consider the effects anti-gay language has on young people like Carl Walker-Hoover."

This new phase of work seeks to capitalize on the campaign's viral success by allowing Internet users to embed "Think Before You Speak" materials on their web and social media sites. In addition to banner ads, materials include a badge that tracks the occurrence of common LGBT slurs - in real time - on the popular micro-blogging site Twitter. A polling tool has also been developed for bloggers to easily feature on their sites. Poll questions use timely events to encourage thought and discussion on the subject of how anti-gay language is used.

According to the Ad Council, high recognition of the "Think Before You Speak" campaign among teens (41% of teens aged 13-16 nationwide reporting that they have seen or heard at least one PSA) has translated into significant shifts in key attitudes and behaviors regarding the use of anti-LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) slurs like "that's so gay." For instance, findings from a recent survey conducted by the Ad Council in 2008 and 2009 of teens aged 13-16 suggest that a higher percentage of teens in 2009 think that people should not say "that's so gay" for any reason (38% in 2009 vs. 28% in 2008) and a higher percentage also report "never" saying "that's so gay" when something is stupid or uncool (28% in 2009 vs. 18% in 2008).

These are significant gains in one year given how entrenched the phrase is in teen vernacular. Nearly every LGBT youth surveyed in GLSEN's 2007 National School Climate Survey (99.2%) had heard the phrase used at least rarely, and 90.2% had heard the phrased used frequently or often.

"In the Ad Council's nearly 70-year history of creating campaigns to raise awareness and change public opinion and attitudes, we don't often see shifts of this magnitude in just over a year," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "We're looking forward to building on this success with a new series of PSAs and online tools that will help to further raise awareness and engage teens online."

To date, the "Think Before You Speak" campaign, the Ad Council's first-ever LGBT-themed campaign, has received significant PSA placement and media coverage, combining for more than $9 million worth of media exposure for the campaign's message since its launch in October 2008.

GLSEN's 2007 National School Climate Survey, released in conjunction with the campaign, showed how prevalent the problem of anti-LGBT behavior is in schools. The survey found that nearly 9 out of 10 LGBT students (86.2%) experienced harassment at school in the past year based on their sexual orientation.

"The 'Think Before You Speak' campaign has started an important conversation among young people," Byard said. "While we still have a long way to go before widespread use of anti-LGBT language becomes a thing of the past, hopefully this campaign will force more and more people to confront the real consequences of the words they use."

About the Campaign Research
Research findings reported in this article are based on two national online surveys of teens aged 13-17. The benchmark survey of 1,035 teens was conducted in October 2008 and the follow up survey of 1,047 teens was conducted in September 2009. Both surveys were fielded by Greenfield Research; respondents were recruited through their large national opt-in panel or via their Real-time SamplingT.

About GLSEN
GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe schools for all students. Established in 1990, GLSEN envisions a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. GLSEN seeks to develop school climates where difference is valued for the positive contribution it makes to creating a more vibrant and diverse community. For information on GLSEN's research, educational resources, public policy advocacy, student organizing programs and educator training initiatives, visit www.glsen.org

About the Ad Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:

Daryl Presgraves
GLSEN
646-388-6577
dpresgraves@glsen.org

Ellyn Fisher
The Ad Council
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Ad Council Launch New Nationwide PSA Campaign Urging Vaccination against the H1N1 Flu Virus

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 11:59:56 GMT
Washington, D.C., December 07, 2009 - HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced today that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is joining with the Ad Council to launch a new nationwide public service advertising (PSA) campaign called "Together We Can All Fight the Flu." The campaign features television, radio, online banner, and outdoor public service advertisements that encourage Americans to get vaccinated against the 2009 H1N1 flu virus.

"Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and your family against the H1N1 flu virus," said Secretary Sebelius. "Fighting the flu is a shared responsibility, and it is up to all of us to help prevent the spread of the flu in your community. Right now, Americans have a window of opportunity to get vaccinated. These new PSAs will encourage pregnant women, children, young adults, and other priority groups to protect themselves by getting the H1N1 vaccine."

Created pro bono by ad agency Merkley + Partners in New York City, the new PSA campaign is designed specifically to reach children, parents, pregnant women, young adults, people with underlying conditions, and Spanish-speakers. The campaign builds on an HHS PSA campaign that was launched earlier this year to promote ways to protect against the flu.

"All across the country, Americans are working together to prevent the spread of the H1N1 flu," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "We are proud to continue our efforts with Secretary Sebelius and HHS to educate Americans about the vaccine and how to protect themselves this flu season."

The new PSAs are available at www.flu.gov, the government's one-stop Web site for all the latest information on both seasonal and H1N1 flu. The Ad Council is distributing the following radio and television PSAs today and the ads will be supported in airtime donated by stations nationwide:

TELEVISION
There are five new television PSA spots available:
"Anthem" focuses on the importance of pregnant women, children, young adults, and other priority groups getting the H1N1 flu vaccine. It is 30 seconds long.

"Parents" focuses on parents of young children and is available in 3 formats: a 25-second format in English with 5 seconds for states to add a customized message; a 30 second version in Spanish and English; and a 10 second version in English.

"Pregnant Women" focuses on the importance of pregnant women getting the H1N1 vaccine. A 30 second version is available in both Spanish and English. A 10 second English version is also available.

"Beat Poetry" focuses on why the H1N1 vaccine is critical for young people. It is 30 seconds long.

"Young Adults" encourages young people to get vaccinated. It is available in 30 second and 10 second formats.

RADIO
There are three new 30-second radio spots available:

"Fight the Flu - Parents." Available in English and Spanish in 30 second and 60 second formats.

"Fight the Flu - Pregnant Women." Available in English and Spanish in 30 second and 60 second formats.

"Fight the Flu - Young Adults." Available in 30 second and 60 second formats.

Children, young adults under 25, pregnant women and adults 25-64 with underlying health conditions, like asthma, are more susceptible to falling ill to the H1N1 flu and are at higher risk for serious medical complications, including hospitalization and death.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that between April and October 17, 2009, 22 million people were infected with the 2009 H1N1 flu, 98,000 H1N1-related hospitalizations occurred, and there were 3,900 H1N1-related deaths.

The Ad Council has been partnering with HHS to develop PSA campaigns that address critical health issues since the 1950s. Their successful collaborations have included public service messages about the polio epidemic, drug abuse and, more recently, obesity prevention.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
The Department of Health and Human Services (www.hhs.gov) is the United States government's principal agency for protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services, especially for those who are least able to help themselves. HHS is leading the medical response for the federal government for the H1N1 flu pandemic. The department includes more than 300 programs, covering a wide spectrum of activities, including medical and social science research, preventing outbreak of infectious disease, including immunization services, assuring food and drug safety, welfare, and Medicare and Medicaid.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:

HHS Press Office
(202) 690-6343

Ellyn Fisher
The Ad Council
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

Ad Council Honors The Coca-Cola Company CEO Muhtar Kent with 56th Annual Public Service Award

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:13:46 GMT

Tina Fey Serves as Emcee of the Ad Council's Annual Dinner

NEW YORK, November 19, 2009 - The Advertising Council honored Muhtar Kent, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Coca-Cola Company, with its 56th Annual Public Service Award at the Ad Council's Annual Dinner held last night at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City. Actress and comedienne Tina Fey served as emcee of the dinner.

Attended by prominent members of the media, advertising and corporate communities, the dinner serves as a tribute to the industries and individuals who support the Ad Council and its public service advertising (PSA) campaigns. Chaired by Brian Perkins, Corporate Vice President, Johnson & Johnson, and Chair of the Ad Council, the dinner is the Ad Council's largest fundraising event, raising $2.5 million this year. Platinum sponsors included Time Warner Inc. and Yahoo! Inc.
The Coca-Cola Company, Diageo North America and Printech served as Chairman Circle sponsors.

The Ad Council has been honoring corporate leaders for their commitment to public service since 1953. Previous honorees include Dick Parsons (Time Warner), Bill Weldon (Johnson & Johnson), Ken Chenault (American Express), Bob Wright (GE/NBC), Ted Turner, Katharine Graham and A.G. Lafley (Procter & Gamble). In keeping with tradition, this year's award was presented by last year's recipient, Jeffrey Immelt, Chairman and CEO, GE.

As Chairman & CEO of The Coca-Cola Company, Muhtar Kent has continued and expanded the global company's commitment to public service, providing significant contributions to areas including improving healthy lifestyles, preserving the environment and providing educational opportunities for students around the globe. The Coca-Cola Company has been supporting the Ad Council since 1947.
"The Ad Council and the advertising industry have been promoting community sustainability for nearly 70 years," said Kent. "This makes tonight's honor so meaningful to The Coca-Cola Company and to our men and women around the world who give back to their local communities we are privileged to serve each day."

"Muhtar Kent has continued and strengthened The Coca-Cola Company's philanthropic programs, and his work has had a significant impact in many areas that are consistent with our public service campaigns," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council., President & CEO of the Ad Council. "Muhtar is highly deserving of our most distinguished public service award and it was wonderful to bestow this honor."

The Ad Council is a non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer talent from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public. Having produced literally thousands of PSA campaigns addressing the most pressing social issues of the day, the Ad Council has effected, and continues to effect, tremendous positive change by raising awareness, inspiring action and saving lives. To learn more about the Ad Council and its campaigns, visit www.adcouncil.org.

Ad Council Unveils New Website to Further the Reach of PSA Campaigns through Social Media

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:24:25 GMT

AOL Partners with Ad Council on "My Ad Council" Site for the Advertising Community

The Advertising Council, the leading producer of public service advertisements (PSAs) in the United States, announced today that they have developed a new website, My Ad Council (www.MyAdCouncil.org), which will encourage advertising agencies, media companies and advertisers to further the reach of the Ad Council's public service campaigns online. Brian Perkins, Corporate Vice President, Johnson & Johnson, and Chair of the Ad Council, unveiled the new site last night at the Ad Council's 56th Annual Public Service Award Dinner held in New York City.

Through My Ad Council, users can quickly and easily share the Ad Council's PSA videos and images via social media platforms. The site also provides the opportunity to comment on the PSAs through sites such as Facebook and Twitter and learn more about how the campaigns have been created through "behind the scenes" videos featuring ad agency individuals. Additionally, My Ad Council highlights the pro bono efforts of advertising agency partners, media supporters and other contributors. The site was developed by JESS3, a creative digital agency in Washington D.C., and it is based on insights gained through focus groups conducted at ad agencies, media companies and corporate advertisers. AOL provided strategic guidance on the design and functionality of the My Ad Council site, as well as financial resources to support the costs of the site.

"One of the most exciting and valuable uses of social media is for social good," said Brian Perkins, Corporate Vice President, Johnson & Johnson, and Chair of the Ad Council. "My Ad Council will give the Ad Council's dedicated and talented supporters a simple way to make a difference and further the Ad Council's mission."

The Ad Council's campaigns are targeted to Americans of all ages and each is sponsored by a national non-profit organization or federal government agency. My Ad Council currently features ten Ad Council campaigns, along with the ad agencies that created the PSAs pro bono: Autism Awareness (BBDO), Drunk Driving Prevention (Mullen and The Vidal Partnership), Hunger Prevention (Ogilvy and Mather), Adoption (kirshenbaum bond senecal + partners), High School Dropout Prevention (Publicis), Shelter Pet Adoption (Draftfcb), Gay and Lesbian Teen Bullying Prevention (ArnoldNYC), Re-connecting Kids with Nature (Euro RSCG Tonic), Teen Dating Abuse Prevention (R/GA) and Wildfire Prevention (Draftfcb). In the coming months, all of the Ad Council's 50 national public service campaigns will be featured on the site.

"This great tool will provide our supporters with a way to develop a deeper and more meaningful personal engagement with our campaigns and serve as another distribution channel for our PSAs," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "We are grateful to AOL for generously partnering with us on this initiative, which will broaden the reach of our messages and help showcase the pro bono support of our constituents."

"We are delighted to partner with the Ad Council on My Ad Council," said Tim Armstrong, Chairman and CEO of AOL and incoming Chairman of the Ad Council. "AOL has a proud history supporting the Ad Council and their critical work raising awareness of some of the most pressing issues facing our society. My Ad Council is a tremendous advancement for the Ad Council and our industry community in helping to extend the impact of their PSAs."

The Ad Council is working with New Media Strategies, a Washington, D.C.-based social media agency, to promote My Ad Council on blogs, message boards, discussion forums and social networking sites. The Ad Council will also produce and distribute a series of online ads to raise awareness of the effort.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contact:
Ad Council Press Office
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

IAVA and Ad Council Build on Success of Groundbreaking Veterans Campaign with a New Series of PSAs Launched for Veterans Day 2009

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 09:35:13 GMT

Outreach Campaign Directs Veterans to Social Networking Site Exclusively for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans

New York, New York November 11, 2009 - To coincide with Veterans Day, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) joined the Ad Council today to launch a new series of national public service advertisements (PSAs) for their Veteran Support Campaign. The national outreach campaign aims to ease the readjustment challenges facing Iraq and Afghanistan veterans as they transition from combat to civilian life. The PSAs encourage new veterans to join IAVA's online community at www.iava.org, a social network exclusively for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans. In the community, veterans can connect with one another, share their experiences, receive advice and support and get access to critical resources and special offers. Launched on Veterans Day 2008, the campaign also includes a complementary series of ads and a website, www.supportyourvet.org, directed at the families and friends of these veterans.

Of the nearly two million veterans who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan, 20 percent have screened positive for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or depression and 19 percent suffer from a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Additionally, according to the U.S. Department of Defense, more than 230 active soldiers, airmen and marines committed suicide last year, which is the highest military suicide statistic in nearly 30 years.

Research shows that many veterans avoid seeking help because of the stigma associated with treatment or fear of being diagnosed with a mental illness. By maintaining relationships and communicating regularly with others who have shared experiences, veterans are better able to reconnect with their friends, families and communities more broadly.

The new PSAs build on the success of the campaign and community over the past year. Since the launch on Veteran's Day 2008, IAVA's online community has become a robust social network helping thousands of veterans with their transition home. Since its inception, nearly 3,000 veterans have joined the community. The site has been visited over 700,000 times with more than 500,000 unique visitors. There are more than 200 groups in COV that range from Purple Heart recipients to PTSD Help to Veteran Video Gamers. These groups have formed the backbone of a critical support network for new veterans. With veterans from every state represented, the community has become a critical tool for connecting veterans who are often geographically dispersed, and might otherwise experience feelings of isolation and loneliness. IAVA and the Ad Council have heard from hundreds of veterans who have benefited from the community, proving the immediate and lasting potential for the campaign.

"This historic campaign is literally saving lives. By giving Iraq and Afghanistan veterans a community of their own they are able to connect and support one another in a way that wasn't possible before," IAVA Executive Director Paul Rieckhoff. "The first year was only the beginning. Over the next few years, we will continue to grow the community and make an even greater impact on returning veterans. IAVA thanks the Ad Council and Saatchi & Saatchi for being such committed partners."

"For the longest time I felt like I was the only one going through things, but through this community I found otherwise. No matter what our deployment jobs, service or experiences were, we still share the places we went. Whether I am having a good day or a bad day I know this is the place I can come to for encouragement and support," said Afghanistan veteran and IAVA community member Laurie Emmer.

Created pro bono by ad agency Saatchi & Saatchi, the new TV, radio, outdoor and Web PSAs launched today continue to encourage Iraq and Afghanistan veterans to join the community at www.iava.org. The ads communicate to veterans that they are not alone and their fellow veterans "have their back." In the TV spot, one veteran is seen logging in to the community from a coffee shop as other veterans, who are camouflaged with the neighborhood surroundings, emerge from all around him to support him. Saatchi & Saatchi cast real veterans for each of the roles in the TV spot, many with combat experience in either Iraq or Afghanistan. The new PSA builds on the campaign's first ad, which communicated that though veterans may feel like they are alone they are surrounded by their peers.

"We are proud to continue our partnership with IAVA with this new series of PSAs that will help Iraq and Afghanistan veterans receive the support and the resources they need in their transition home," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "Since the launch of our campaign, we have heard from many veterans about the transformative impact that they have experienced in the community. These new ads and online tools will continue to help those who have served our country."

"We were honored to be a part of such an important cause at a time when Vets need support the most," said Mark Rolland, SVP, Management Director at Saatchi & Saatchi NY. "IAVA has developed this tremendous online resource for Vets, so it was our goal with the 'We've got your back' campaign to illustrate the benefit of that resource in a simple and engaging way."

The PSA and the website have been researched extensively and tested with veterans, their families and the general market. The new ads are being distributed to approximately 33,000 media outlets nationwide. Per the Ad Council's model, all of the ads will air and run in advertising time and space donated by the media.

Funding for the campaign was made possible by the Iraq Afghanistan Deployment Impact Fund of the California Community Foundation.

IAVA
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) is the nation's first and largest nonprofit, nonpartisan group for veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Founded in 2004, IAVA has more than 150,000 active veteran members and civilian supporters in all 50 states. Its mission is to improve the lives of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and their families. For more information, visit www.iava.org.

Saatchi & Saatchi
Saatchi & Saatchi NY (www.saatchiny.com) is the largest agency in the 150-office Saatchi & Saatchi global network, part of Publicis Groupe. It handles the Miller High Life, I Love NY Tourism Board and JCPenney businesses as well as over 40 #1 brands in its client portfolio, including: Tide, Pampers and Olay (Procter & Gamble); Pillsbury and Cheerios (General Mills); Theraflu and Triaminic (Novartis). The agency represents clients with combined annual revenues of approximately $500 billion and market capitalization of approximately $650 billion.

Saatchi & Saatchi is known for its outstanding creative ideas that generate powerful emotional connections between consumers and products. This is a key element in Lovemarks, Saatchi & Saatchi's unique methodology for elevating the status of brands designed to create "loyalty beyond reason" and "inspirational consumers."

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:

Chrissy Stevens
IAVA
212-982-9699
chrissy@iava.org

Ellyn Fisher
The Ad Council
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

Lynne Collins
Saatchi & Saatchi
212-463-2734
Lynne.Collins@saatchiny.com

American Heart Association, Ad Council launch Hands-OnlyT CPR campaign

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:34:17 GMT
DALLAS, Oct. 28, 2009 /PRNewswire/ - The Ad Council and American Heart Association today launched a national multimedia public service advertising (PSA) campaign that encourages bystanders to use Hands-Only CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) when an adult collapses and is unresponsive.

The PSAs - distributed to about 33,000 media outlets nationwide this week - will air and run in advertising time and space donated by the media. An integrated social media program will extend the reach of the PSA campaign online with strategies designed to engage and educate adults throughout the country.

Hands-Only CPR, or CPR without mouth-to-mouth breathing, is a two-step technique that involves calling 9-1-1 and pushing hard and fast in the center of the chest until professional help arrives.

"Hands-Only CPR is an easy and effective technique that has the potential to save lives every day if we can educate more Americans about it and reduce their fears and hesitation," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council.

Forty-four percent of adults say they would not perform CPR because they're not confident in their ability, according to a national American Heart Association survey conducted in 2008. Consumer research also shows that people often hesitate because they're not comfortable with giving mouth-to-mouth CPR.

"This new campaign beautifully depicts the power of hands in helping to save a life," Conlon said. "I believe it will empower more bystanders to take action when they see someone in cardiac arrest."

Through the Hands-Only CPR campaign, the American Heart Association and Ad Council hope to reach all adults, particularly women age 55 years and older who are most likely to be the spouses of potential victims.

"For years the survival rate from sudden cardiac arrest has been abysmal," said Clyde Yancy, M.D., American Heart Association president. "Bystanders hold the key to increasing survival. We hope this campaign will break through the barriers people have when they see someone in cardiac arrest - so that anyone who hears this message can help save a life."

Created pro bono by Gotham Inc., an ad agency in New York, the campaign includes television, radio, print, outdoor and Web PSAs. The PSAs direct audiences to visit www.HandsOnlyCPR.org, where they can gain access to information and resources on the technique, including an instructional video.

The site also includes an online tool, "Hands Symphony," where visitors can use their "hands" to create original music. Users can choose from a host of sounds created by different filmed hands to create their own track, and send it to their friends, encouraging them to create their own tracks, or add on to other friends' tracks.

Visitors to the Web site can also download a free instructional application for their smartphone that teaches the technique. The application is available on the iPhone and iPod touch, Blackberry, Palm Pre and Android (Google) platforms.

"It's a rare occasion when advertising can help save lives," said Peter McGuinness, CEO of Gotham. "We hope that through this campaign, we can encourage all bystanders, trained or untrained, to do something when they see an adult suddenly collapse."

American Heart Association
Founded in 1924, we're the nation's oldest and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to building healthier lives, free of heart disease and stroke. To help prevent, treat and defeat these diseases - America's No. 1 and No. 3 killers - we fund cutting-edge research, conduct lifesaving public and professional educational programs, and advocate to protect public health. To learn more or join us in helping all Americans, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visit americanheart.org.

The Ad Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Gotham
Gotham's 160 employees service the integrated communication needs of clients in fashion and beauty, retail, healthcare, financial services, and packaged goods categories. Clients include: Lindt, Fresh Direct, Yellowbook.com, Sony Ericsson, Best Western, Maybelline, Remington, RSM McGladrey, Newman's Own and Wedgwood. For more information, visit www.gothaminc.com.

Editor's Note:
During a cardiac arrest, the heart suddenly stops beating normally and the victim collapse into unconsciousness. Oxygen-rich blood stops circulating. Without quick action, such as immediate CPR, a victim of cardiac arrest can die within four to six minutes.

Every day, nearly 800 Americans suffer sudden cardiac arrest outside of hospitals, according to the American Heart Association, and less than 10 percent will survive to hospital discharge. However, studies show providing CPR to an adult who has collapsed from a sudden cardiac arrest can more than double or triple that person's chance of survival. Unfortunately, less than one-third of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victims receive that help.

Contacts:
The Ad Council
Press Office
(212) 984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

Gotham
Alyssa Siegel
(212) 396-9179
alyssa@aj-media.com
American Heart Association
Kate Lino
(214) 706-1325
kate.lino@heart.org

Ad Council Announces Partnership with Zinio and Hearst Magazines to Introduce First Digital Public Service Campaigns

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 10:10:33 GMT

Partnership Will Extend PSA Reach and Engagement Digitally to "Screenagers"

NEW YORK - October 27, 2009 -- The Advertising Council (www.adcouncil.org), America's leading provider of public service advertisements since 1942, announced today a first-of-its-kind partnership with Zinio (www.zinio.com), the world's leader in digital-content design and distribution, and Hearst Magazines, one of the world's largest publishers of monthly magazines. The collaboration with Zinio will enable the Ad Council to take its influence and innovation to a new level, creating a suite of digital, interactive PSAs and other products. The offering will allow Hearst Magazines to extend their reach to digital readers with the unprecedented freedom to place PSAs without concerns of exceeding advertising allocations.

"The Ad Council has a long history of inspiring the American public and effecting positive change," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO, Ad Council. "Partnering with Zinio helps raise awareness of our campaigns and all of the work that we do by featuring our messages in an innovative way in the digital world."

Under the terms of the exclusive partnership, Zinio will create interactive digital editions of the Ad Council's PSAs that will interweave radio and video, using its proprietary format. As a result, the Ad Council can disseminate multi-layered public service messages that are more engaging, while enabling Zinio to utilize its technology to create digital PSA catalogues and annual reports for the council. All 10 of Hearst Magazines' digital publications, including Cosmopolitan, Seventeen and others, will be the first digital publications to deliver public service messaging to their readers in this groundbreaking manner.

"One of the greatest assets of digital publishing is its ability to reach the generation of 'screen-agers' -- young people who have spent their entire lives digesting information online," said Rich Maggiotto, President & CEO, Zinio. "By partnering with the Ad Council, Zinio helps play a critical role in communicating with America's youth in a language and medium that resonates best with them."

In addition to Zinio creating digital versions of Ad Council PSAs, they also will work together to promote awareness of digital publishing. Zinio will take steps to integrate digital PSAs into magazine titles currently available on its newsstand, and the Ad Council will include digital PSAs into publications with which it already has existing relationships.

About the Ad Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

About Zinio, LLC
Zinio is revolutionizing reading. Through digital products and services, the Company creates better ways for people to discover published content, get more of it and do more with it. Zinio works closely with publishers worldwide to reinvent reading. For consumers, Zinio enables the ability to shop for, search inside, read, share and save digital content in new ways and on many devices. With over 50,000 digital magazines and books, and e-stores localized in 15 languages, zinio.com is the largest online newsstand in the world. Founded in 2001 and privately held, Zinio is headquartered in San Francisco and has offices in New York, London, Paris, Barcelona and Taipei.

About Hearst Magazines
Hearst Magazines is a unit of Hearst Corporation (www.hearst.com), one of the nation's largest diversified communications companies with interests in magazines, newspapers, digital media, business media and television. As one of the world's largest publishers of monthly magazines, Hearst Magazines publishes more than 200 editions around the world, including 15 U.S. titles and 20 magazines in the United Kingdom, published through its wholly owned subsidiary, The National Magazine Company Limited. Hearst reaches more adults than any other publisher of monthly magazines (70.6 million total adults, according to MRI, Fall 2008).

Through its digital media unit, Hearst Magazines operates 25 Web sites and nine mobile sites for brands such as Cosmopolitan, Esquire, Good Housekeeping, Marie Claire and Seventeen, as well as non-magazine brand sites such as Delish.com, a food site in partnership with MSN; TheDailyGreen.com, MisQuinceMag.com and RealBeauty.com. Hearst Digital has also acquired Q&A platform Answerology.com; teen sites eCRUSH.com and eSPIN.com; social shopping site Kaboodle.com, and consumer health site RealAge.com.

Contacts:
Beth Shanley
AdCouncil
bshanley@adcouncil.org
212.984.1923

Lisa Hagendorf
Zinio
Lhagendorf@zinio.com
646.383.4050

The Advertising Council, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and AdoptUsKids Launch Campaign to Encourage the Adoption of African American Children in Foster Care

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 10:05:41 GMT
New York, October 27, 2009 -The Advertising Council, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Children's Bureau and AdoptUsKids, announced today the launch of a campaign designed to encourage the adoption of African American children from foster care.

According to the Administration for Children and Families, there are currently 496,000 children in the foster care system and, of these, 130,000 are available for adoption. Thirty-one percent of the children in foster care waiting to be adopted are African American; African American children are overrepresented in the foster care population relative to their percentage in the U.S. general population.

"We are optimistic that this campaign will result in a significant increase in inquiries to AdoptUsKids by families who are interested in adoption, specifically the adoption of older African American children and youth in foster care in the United States" said Kathy Ledesma, Project Director, AdoptUsKids. Created pro bono by kirshenbaum bond senecal + partners, the new multimedia campaign which includes television, radio, and print PSAs, is designed to help prospective parents realize that "You don't have to be perfect to be a perfect parent". It also aims to significantly increase awareness of the need to provide loving, permanent families for children in the foster care system. The new PSAs illustrate to potential parents that children in foster care don't need perfection, they need the commitment and love a "forever family" can provide. The PSAs direct audiences to visit www.adoptuskids.org, or call 1-888-200-4005 for more information on the adoption process.

"We are thrilled to be partnering with the Children's Bureau and AdoptUsKids on this humorous and heartwarming campaign that has inspired thousands of Americans to consider adopting a child from foster care," according to Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of The Advertising Council. "I am confident that these new PSAs will help increase the adoption of African American children."

The new PSAs are an extension of the previously successful campaign, launched in 2004, which focused on the adoption of children from foster care. The need for adoptive homes for older children, sibling groups, and children of color is especially great and the campaign has therefore targeted prospective homes for those populations. In the first 18 months following the launch, calls to the AdoptUsKids toll-free number increased by 236%. Additionally, more than 11,000 children whose pictures and biographies were featured on the AdoptUsKids website have been placed with a "forever family."

"The insight that you don't have to be perfect to be a perfect parent is a great platform that continues to allow us to create both meaningful and entertaining work across all channels. The campaign is a classic for the agency yet we continue to evolve and find fresh ways to inspire prospective parents to take action," said Izzy DeBellis ,Managing Partner and Network Creative Director, kirshenbaum bond senecal + partners.

The new television, radio, print and Web banner PSAs are being distributed to more than 33,000 media outlets nationwide this week. Per the Ad Council model, the PSAs will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media.

The Administration for Children and Families/Children's Bureau
Within HHS, the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) is the agency that is responsible for Federal programs that promote the economic and social well-being of families, children, individuals, and communities. The Administration on Children, Youth and Families (ACYF) administers national programs for children and youth; works with States, Tribes, and local communities to develop services that support and strengthen family life; seeks joint ventures with the private sector to enhance the lives of children and their families; and provides information and other assistance to parents. Many of the programs administered by ACYF focus on children from low-income families; abused and neglected children; children and youth in need of foster care, independent living, adoption or other child welfare services; preschool children; children with disabilities; runaway and homeless youth; and children from Native American and migrant families.

Within ACYF, the Children's Bureau (CB) plans, manages, coordinates, and supports child abuse and neglect prevention and child welfare services programs. CB is the agency within the Federal Government that is responsible for assisting child welfare systems by promoting continuous improvement in the delivery of child welfare services. CB programs are designed to promote the safety, permanency, and well-being of all children, including those in foster care, available for adoption, recently adopted, abused, neglected, dependent, disabled, or homeless, and to prevent the neglect, abuse, and exploitation of children.

AdoptUsKids
AdoptUsKids is a multi-faceted, federally funded project whose mission is to recruit and connect foster and adoptive families with waiting children throughout the United States. The project is managed through a cooperative agreement with the Children's Bureau of the Administration of Children and Families of the Department of Health and Human Services.

About kirshenbaum bond senecal + partners
kirshenbaum bond senecal + partners is a leading integrated creative advertising and marketing services organization with $700 million in billings and 300 employees located in New York. Our dedication is to provide High Value Creativity that drives financial performance for our clients. The members of the kirshenbaum bond senecal+ partners group include kirshenbaum bond senecal advertising, Company C, Dotglu, LIME public relations + promotion, The Media Kitchen, Open Mind Strategy, and Varick Media Management. The Clients of the Group include BMW, Berkshire Hathaway/NetJets, Cablevision, Diageo, Delta, HomeGoods, Kao Brands Company (Jergens, Biore, Ban, John Frieda, Curel), Mohegan Sun, Panasonic, Starz Entertainment and Weight Watchers among others. kirshenbaum bond senecal + partners is a member of the MDC Partners network. For more information go to http://www.kbsp.com.

The Ad Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals volunteer talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to deliver critical messages to the American public. The Ad Council has produced, distributed and promoted thousands of public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas of health & safety, community and education.

Contacts:
Beth Shanley
The Ad Council
212-984-1923
bshanley@adcouncil.org

Debora Zdobinski
kbs+p
212-352-4664
dzdobinski@kbsp.com

DCSI Supports the Ad Council through its PSAcasting Initiative

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 09:54:36 GMT

Public service announcements from The Advertising Council are now playing across DCSI's growing national digital signage and advertising network.

New York, NY and Tempe, AZ, October 27, 2009 - The Advertising Council, the nation's leading producer of public service advertising campaigns, and Digital Consumer Solutions, Inc. (DCSI), a growing national network of digital signage and advertising solutions, today announced that DCSI will begin displaying public service announcements made available by the Ad Council in support of their PSAcasting.org initiative.

"We're thrilled to be able to support the Ad Council to deliver vital messages across our national network of digital screens as part of their PSAcasting.org effort," said Todd Hanle, Head of Global Marketing and Brand for DCSI. "This is an important initiative that helps generate greater reach to the important topics that tens of millions of people face every day and we're proud to be able to help deliver those messages across our digital network and through the country's top DMAs."

The Ad Council and DCSI have already begun displaying PSAs across the Phoenix, AZ and Portland, OR markets and are expected to expand into additional DMAs as part of a digital out of home strategic roll-out plan. Key PSA's running support: Teen Issues, Preventive Health Care, Veterans and the Environment.

About DCSI
Tempe, Arizona-based Digital Consumer Solutions, Inc. (DCSI) is a nationwide digital signage and advertising network with digital screens and extensive access in high traffic locations including convenience and grocery stores, quick service restaurants and shopping malls in major markets. At the cutting edge of product and technology innovation in the digital-out-of-home industry, DCSI offers a platform for advertisers to engage and inform today's fast-paced, constantly moving culture. By providing everything from the ground up, DCSI has created an end-to-end solution and is able to customize individual and network-wide content and advertisements for clients based on location and demographics to produce measurable results. For more information visit www.dcsimedia.com.

About the Ad Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health care, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contact:

Todd Hanle
Digital Consumer Solutions, Inc.
866-977-6334 :O
800-828-0471 :F
thanle@dcsimedia.com

Ad Council and Library of Congress Launch New PSAs to Promote the Joy of Reading and New Web Site www.read.gov

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 15:20:45 GMT

New spots feature characters and scenes from "Disney's A Christmas Carol"

New York, October 13, 2009 - The Advertising Council and the Library of Congress joined today to launch a national public service advertising (PSA) campaign designed to encourage children and adults to become engaged in reading and all other forms of literacy.

According to the National Institute for Literacy, success in school -- and life -- starts with literacy. When children become good readers in the early grades, they are more likely to become better learners throughout their school years and beyond. However, results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress reading test found that 37% of American fourth graders read below the "basic" level.

"The vision of the Library of Congress is to further the knowledge and wisdom needed for the sustenance of a free and informed citizenry, which is the very foundation of our democracy," according to Librarian of Congress James H. Billington. "Nothing is more important to this vision than the ability and desire to read and learn, and our efforts with organizations such as the Ad Council and Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures to promote lifelong literacy are critical to that end."

The new PSAs, aimed to reach children in the fourth, fifth and sixth grades and their parents, focus on engaging children in all forms of literacy, whether it is reading a book or magazine, studying history, visiting a museum or simply using their imagination. The TV, radio, online, and outdoor PSAs were developed in collaboration with the Ad Council and feature characters from the new film "Disney's A Christmas Carol." Additionally, a series of radio PSAs were created pro bono by BYU Ad Lab.

"We are excited to continue our partnership with the Library of Congress and to join with Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures on this engaging and important campaign," according to Peggy Conlon, President and CEO of The Advertising Council. "One of our missions is to ensure that all children have the opportunity to achieve their full potential in life. I am confident these PSAs will show children that literacy, in all its new and exciting forms, will enhance their lives in so many ways."

All of the PSAs direct children and parents to visit the Library of Congress' newly re-designed website, www.read.gov. The new website is designed to promote reading and literacy and includes links to a companion educational center at www.thenclba.org with resources and activities for teachers, parents and students. Also launching is "The Exquisite Corpse", an exclusive online storytelling journey written and illustrated by a cast of award winning authors and illustrators. Over the next year, a new chapter will be posted every two weeks.

Since its launch in 2003, the Ad Council's PSA campaign with the Library of Congress has received approximately $130 million in donated time and space from the media.

Per the Ad Council model, the PSAs will be distributed to media outlets nationwide this week and will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media.

LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
The Library of Congress is the nation's oldest federal cultural institution and the world's preeminent reservoir of knowledge, providing unparalleled collections and integrated resources to Congress and the American people. Many of the Library's rich resources and treasures may be accessed through the Library's website, www.loc.gov, and via interactive exhibitions on myLOC.gov.

THE ADVERTISING COUNCIL
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

ABOUT "DISNEY'S A CHRISTMAS CAROL"
DISNEY'S A CHRISTMAS CAROL, a multi-sensory thrill ride re-envisioned by Academy Award�-winning filmmaker Robert Zemeckis, captures the fantastical essence of the classic Dickens tale in a groundbreaking 3D motion picture event.

Ebenezer Scrooge (JIM CARREY) begins the Christmas holiday with his usual miserly contempt, barking at his faithful clerk (GARY OLDMAN) and his cheery nephew (COLIN FIRTH). But when the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come take him on an eye-opening journey revealing truths Old Scrooge is reluctant to face, he must open his heart to undo years of ill will before it's too late.

Contacts:
Beth Shanley
The Ad Council
212-984-1923
bcostiglio@adcouncil.org

John Sayers
Library of Congress
202-707-9216
jsay@loc.gov

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Ad Council Launch National Campaign to Help Prevent the Spread of the H1N1 Flu Virus

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 16:10:10 GMT
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced today that the Department of Health & Human Services is joining with the Ad Council to launch a series of national television public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to encourage Americans to take steps to protect themselves from the 2009 H1N1 flu virus. The ads are designed specifically to reach children, parents, pregnant women and young adults. A second series of PSAs, aimed at encouraging high-risk populations to get the H1N1 vaccination, is launching in late October.

Included in the public service advertisements being released today are new spots featuring characters from the popular Sesame Street and the winning spots from the recent 2009 Flu Prevention PSA Contest sponsored by the Department of Health and Human Services.

The Ad Council is distributing the following PSAs nationwide today and the ads will be supported in airtime donated by television stations nationwide. The spots will also be available at flu.gov, the government's one-stop website for all the latest information on both seasonal and H1N1 flu:

Young Adults: The winning PSA video from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services national 2009 Flu Prevention PSA Contest on YouTube (featuring the "hip hop doc"), along with four additional videos from the contest, will aim to reach those ages 17 to 24. More than 50,000 votes were cast for the contest. The PSAs are available in :30 and :60 lengths and include a Spanish-language spot.

Parents and Pregnant Women: Produced by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, a new series of TV ads featuring Olympic Gold Medalist Jackie Joyner Kersee, singer Marc Anthony and actress Amy Ryan aim to reach parents and pregnant women. The PSA featuring Marc Anthony is also available in Spanish and the ads are in :30 length.

Parents and Children: Designed to reach children under the age of five and their parents, Sesame Workshop, the non-profit educational organization behind Sesame Street, produced two new television PSAs. Sesame Street's Elmo and Rosita have a new song teaching children the proper way to sneeze while Elmo and Luis talk to parents about the importance of creating a plan to keep their children home from school if they get sick. These messages build on a PSA Sesame Workshop released with HHS and the Ad Council earlier this year which explained the importance of practicing healthy habits this flu season. The PSAs are available in English and Spanish and are :30 lengths.

"While getting a flu vaccine is the best way for Americans to protect themselves and their families from the flu, right now as we wait for the H1N1 vaccine to get distributed out into local doctors offices and sites across the country, there are critically important things that Americans can be doing right now to keep their friends and family healthy and safe and to prevent the spread of flu," said Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. "These new prevention PSAs will help us get the word out about what to do about the flu. Fighting the flu is a shared responsibility between all of us and we are so grateful to all those who helped create these wonderful new messages. We are hopeful that Americans will spread these new PSAs virally and use to them help stop the spread of H1N1 and seasonal flu. "

The H1N1 flu virus is contagious and spreads person-to-person the same way that seasonal influenza does. The virus has quickly spread worldwide and in June 2009 the World Health Organization declared a global H1N1 flu pandemic.

After a summer of elevated influenza activity levels, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recorded as many flu cases in September as it does when flu season normally peaks later in the fall and winter.

Children, young adults under 24, pregnant women and adults 25-64 with underlying health conditions, like asthma, are more susceptible to falling ill to the H1N1 flu and are at higher risk for serious medical complications, including hospitalization and death.

To date millions of American people have gotten the H1N1 flu virus and more than 600 have died since the spring from HINI flu-related complications; including children and pregnant women.

The new PSAs focus on the importance of providing Americans with accurate information on the simple steps they can take to help prevent the flu. The PSAs encourage audiences to visit www.flu.gov to get more information on how to stay healthy.

"Since the outbreak of the H1N1 flu, many Americans have expressed concern about how they can protect themselves from being infected," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "We are proud to continue our longstanding partnership with the Department of Health and Human Services for these critical PSAs that will educate Americans about steps they can take to stay healthy."

The Ad Council has been partnering with the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services to develop PSA campaigns that address critical health issues since the 1950s. Their successful collaborations have included public service messages about the polio epidemic, drug abuse and, more recently, obesity prevention.

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
The Department of Health and Human Services is the United States government's principal agency for protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services, especially for those who are least able to help themselves. HHS is leading the medical response for the federal government for the H1N1 flu pandemic. The department includes more than 300 programs, covering a wide spectrum of activities, including medical and social science research, preventing outbreak of infectious disease, including immunization services, assuring food and drug safety, welfare, and Medicare and Medicaid.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Sesame Workshop
Sesame Workshop is the nonprofit educational organization that revolutionized children's television programming with the landmark Sesame Street. The Workshop produces local Sesame Street programs, seen in over 140 countries, and other acclaimed shows to help bridge the literacy gap including The Electric Company and Pinky Dinky Doo. Beyond television, the Workshop produces content for multiple media platforms on a wide range of issues including literacy, health and military deployment. Initiatives meet specific needs to help young children and families develop critical skills, acquire healthy habits and build emotional strength to prepare them for lifelong learning. Learn more at www.sesameworkshop.org.

Contacts:
HHS
Office of Public Health and Science
Public Affairs Office
202-205-0143

Sesame Workshop
Pam Hacker
212-875-6225
pam.hacker@sesameworkshop.org

The Ad Council
Ellyn Fisher
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

Craig Morgan Voices New PSAs for Smokey Bear's Wildfire Prevention Campaign

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 12:33:49 GMT
Radio PSAs Available Today, in time for Fire Prevention Week

The Advertising Council, in partnership with the USDA Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters (NASF), announced today the launch of a new series of radio public service advertisements (PSAs) featuring country star and Grand Ole Opry member Craig Morgan, designed to provide critical information to Americans about their role in wildfire prevention as an extension of the Wildfire Prevention campaign featuring Smokey Bear. Morgan has recorded two 15- and one 30-second radio PSAs that are being distributed to radio stations across the nation this week to coincide with Fire Prevention Week. Radio stations can locate the PSAs on Ad Council's fulfillment website, http://psacentral.adcouncil.org.

Morgan, whose single "Bonfire," is in the Top 20 and rapidly climbing the Country Radio charts, felt it was important to pair a strong prevention message with the celebratory song and volunteered his time to the Ad Council. "When my buddies and I wrote this song, we were talking and laughing about fun times with family and friends, and that's what bonfires are all about," says Morgan. "But, anybody who knows me knows that I'm a big outdoors guy, and any time you build any sort of fire outside, safety has to be your number one concern. That's why I wanted to work with the Ad Council to get this message out. Wildfire Prevention remains one of the most critical issues affecting our country, and whether it's a bonfire after the big game, or a cookout when you're hunting or fishing, you need to contain your fire and be sure it is 100 percent extinguished before you leave."

Research shows that many Americans believe that lightning starts most wildfires. In fact, more than 88 percent of wildfires nationwide are started by humans and the majority of these fires are accidental. The principle causes are campfires left unattended, trash burning on windy days, careless discarding of smoking materials and BBQ coals and operating equipment without spark arrestors.

Morgan's PSAs provide valuable tips on fire extinguishing, and direct audiences to visit the campaign website, www.smokeybear.com, for more information about wildfire prevention. The website includes sections devoted to fire prevention tips, including how to build and extinguish safe fires and how to protect your home if you live near a fire prone area. Visitors can also take a pledge to practice fire safety.

Since his introduction on August 9, 1944, Smokey Bear has been a recognized symbol of protection of America's forests from fire. His message about forest fire prevention has helped to significantly reduce the number of acres burned annually by wildfires. Despite the campaign's success, during the past ten years, an average of 6.5 million acres of land in the U.S. was burned each year by wildfires. According to a recent Ad Council survey, Smokey Bear and his famous words of wisdom - "Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires" - are recalled by 3 out of 4 adults without prompting.

The Ad Council is distributing the new PSAs to radio stations nationwide this week. Per the Ad Council's model, the PSAs are airing in advertising time that is donated by the media. Since 1980, the Wildfire Prevention campaign has received more than $1 billion in donated advertising time and space. The campaign is the longest-running PSA campaign in U.S. history.

USDA Forest Service
Established in 1905, the Forest Service is an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Forest Service manages 193 million acres of public lands in national forests and grasslands, which is an area equivalent to the size of Texas. The Forest Service is also the largest forestry research organization in the world, and provides technical and financial assistance to States, Tribes, communities, and non-industrial private forest landowners.

Gifford Pinchot, the first Chief of the Forest Service, summed up the mission of the Forest Service- "to provide the greatest amount of good for the greatest amount of people in the long run."

National Association of State Foresters
The National Association of State Foresters is comprised of the directors of state and territorial agencies and the District of Columbia. Through public-private partnership, NASF seeks to advance sustainable forestry, conservation, and protection of forestlands and their associated resources.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Craig Morgan
Craig Morgan is signed to Sony Entertainment Nashville's BNA Records label, and released his fifth studio album, That's Why, last fall. His current hit, the anthemic "Bonfire," is the fastest-rising of his career. Last year Morgan received one of country music's highest honors - he was inducted into the membership of the Grand Ole Opry. Morgan has made more than 150 appearances on The Grand Ole Opry, and plays over 200 sold-out concerts a year. He spent ten years on active duty in the U.S. Army before launching his music career, and makes a point to perform as often as possible at US military installations both in the US and abroad. He lives just outside of Nashville with his wife Karen and their four children.

CONTACT:
Ellyn Fisher, The Advertising Council - 212.984.1964, efisher@adcouncil.org
Paula Erickson, Erickson Public Relations - 615.665.5950, paula@ericksonpr.com
Wes Vause, BNA Records - 615.301.4373, wes.vause@sonymusic.com

HHS, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Family Assistance, and the Ad Council launch new PSAs to inspire a new commitment to responsible fatherhood

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 12:25:59 GMT
PSAs Emphasize to Fathers that "the smallest moments can have the biggest impact on a child's life."

October, 8, 2009 - In an effort to show fathers the unique and irreplaceable role they play in their children's lives, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Family Assistance (OFA) and the Ad Council joined today to announce the launch of new public service advertisements (PSAs).

"Fathers are crucial to the healthy development of their children," said Carmen Nazario, Assistant Secretary for Children and Families. "These moving public service ads will encourage fathers to be better providers, protectors, and mentors."

The effort is part of ACF's ongoing National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse Media Campaign, which is designed to promote and encourage responsible fatherhood and provide access to resources, parenting assistance, programs and education services for fathers and practitioners.

"These new PSAs continue the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse's tradition of delivering messages that inspire dads to give their children what they need to succeed: their time," said, Roland C. Warren, Media Campaign Director of the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse.

Created pro bono by Campbell-Ewald, the new TV, radio, print, outdoor and online PSAs emphasize to fathers that "the smallest moments can have the biggest impact on a child's life." The PSAs conclude with the tagline, "Take time to be a dad today" and direct fathers to visit www.fatherhood.gov or call 1-877-4DAD411 for parenting tips and additional resources for fathers. New Spanish radio PSAs were developed and translation of the new materials was provided by Hispanic Communications Network (HCN).

"This campaign continues to make a difference in the lives of dads and their kids," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "Thanks to the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse and Campbell Ewald these poignant PSAs will capture the hearts of Americans and inspire fathers to become more involved in their children's lives."

According to the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse (NRFC), an estimated
24 million children live absent their biological fathers, and they are at least two to three times more likely to be poor, to use drugs, to experience educational, health, emotional and behavioral problems, to be victims of child abuse, and to engage in criminal behavior than their peers who live with both of their parents. Children with involved, loving fathers are significantly more likely to do well in school, have healthy self-esteem, exhibit empathy and pro-social behavior and avoid high-risk behaviors.

"Since first partnering with the NRFC and the Ad Council in 1996, our goal has been to change the world, one father at a time," said Bill Ludwig, Vice Chairman, Chief Creative Officer at Campbell-Ewald. "We are honored to help highlight the vital role of being a father, and more importantly, to inspire dads to take an active role and make a difference in their children's lives."

Since its launch in 2008, the NRFC's Promoting Responsible Fatherhood campaign has received more than $46 million in donated media across television, radio, out-of-home, Internet and print. Per the Ad Council model, the PSAs will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media.

HHS
Through HHS, the federal government supports responsible fatherhood in diverse ways. Because engaged fathers strengthen families and contribute to healthy outcomes for children, many HHS programs integrate support for fathers. These include Head Start, child support programs, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. HHS also supports programs that focus on responsible fatherhood, such as the Promoting Responsible Fatherhood grant program administered by the Office of Family Assistance.

National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse
The National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse (NRFC) is funded by Administration for Children and Families' Office of Family Assistance's (OFA) efforts to assist States and communities to promote and support Responsible Fatherhood. Primarily a tool for professionals operating Responsible Fatherhood programs, the NRFC provides access to print and electronic publications, timely information on fatherhood issues, and targeted resources that support OFA-funded Responsible Fatherhood grantees. The NRFC Web site also provides essential information for other audiences interested in fatherhood issues. www.fatherhood.gov.

Campbell-Ewald
Campbell-Ewald is one of the nation's largest advertising and digital communications agencies, with more than 1,100 employees and offices in Detroit, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, New York, and Washington, D.C. A part of The Interpublic Group of Companies (NYSE:IPG), Campbell-Ewald partners with a score of national brands, including Alltel Wireless, ARAMARK, Buffalo Wild Wings, Carrier, Chevrolet, General Motors, Ghirardelli, Kaiser Permanente, Olympic Paints and Stains, OnStar, USAA, the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the United States Mint, the United States Navy and the United States Postal Service. For more information on Campbell-Ewald, visit www.campbell-ewald.com.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer talent from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public. Having produced literally thousands of PSA campaigns addressing the most pressing social issues of the day, the Ad Council has effected, and continues to effect, tremendous positive change by raising awareness, inspiring action, and saving lives. To learn more about the Ad Council and its campaigns, visit www.adcouncil.org.

The Advertising Council and U.S. Department of Energy Launch New PSAs to Help Create an Energy Ethic for Future Generations

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 10:48:29 GMT
NEW YORK, October 2, 2009 - The Advertising Council and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today launched a series of new public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to educate tweens ages 8-10 about the importance of energy efficiency.

Energy use is on the rise around the world. By 2030, global energy demand is expected to increase 50 percent above 2005 levels, with electricity demand alone in the U.S. projected to rise 29 percent over the same period. This growing demand must be addressed in the context of global climate change. Consumers can make a significant difference on all these fronts by reducing demand through simple energy efficiency measures. For example, households that install energy-saving bulbs can cut energy used for lighting by more than 80 percent.

In a February 2008 national survey of kids ages 8-12, 85 percent of respondents believed that they could lead their family to do what is needed to consume less energy in the home.

As part of The Walt Disney Company's continued commitment to inspire environmentally-conscious behavior, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, in collaboration with the Ad Council, developed the new TV, outdoor and web advertising PSAs designed to educate 8-10 year olds on positive energy efficient habits and features Tinker Bell and other characters from the upcoming film "Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure." The PSAs direct viewers to a new interactive website www.energy.gov/kids where they can learn fun, simple tips on energy efficient behaviors, new technological advances to reduce energy consumption in the home and play fun games.

"We are delighted to continue our collaboration with DOE and Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment on this new round of PSAs," according to Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of The Advertising Council. "I'm confident that these PSAs, featuring Tinkerbell, who appeals to our target audiences, will continue to raise awareness and encourage tweens to practice good energy-saving activities."

Per the Ad Council model, the PSAs will be distributed to media outlets nationwide this week and will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media.

THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
The U.S. Department of Energy stands at the forefront of the United States' effort to meet energy and environment, scientific, and national security goals. DOE works to meet growing energy demand with clean, safe, affordable, reliable and diverse supplies of energy through scientific discovery and investments with partners to push new technology rapidly into the marketplace. Among many other roles, the Department also supports American economic growth by promoting energy efficiency practices in homes, businesses and the nation's industrial complex. Since 2001, DOE and other federal agencies have provided nearly $18 billion in funding to research, develop, and promote alternative energy technologies that help to improve America's energy security.

WALT DISNEY STUDIOS HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, a recognized leader in the home entertainment industry, is the marketing, sales and distribution company for Walt Disney, Touchstone, Hollywood Pictures, Miramax and Buena Vista product, which includes DVD, Blu-ray DiscT and electronic distribution. Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment is a division of The Walt Disney Studios.

THE ADVERTISING COUNCIL
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

CONTACT:
Beth Shanley
The Ad Council
212-984-1923
bshanley@adcouncil.org

Kevin Brosnahan
Department of Energy
202-586-0462
Kevin.Brosnahan@ee.doe.gov

U.S. Forest Service and the Ad Council Launch a National Sweepstakes to Encourage Children to Re-Connect with Nature

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 11:29:58 GMT

Photo Sweepstakes to Encourage Tweens to Find Their "Other You"

In an effort to encourage tweens (ages 8-12) to spend more time in nature, the U.S. Forest Service is joining the Ad Council today to launch an interactive photo/art sweepstakes that will engage families in experiencing nature first hand. As an extension of their "Re-Connecting Kids with Nature" public service advertising (PSA) campaign, which first launched in June, the photo sweepstakes encourages tweens to head into the forest, explore and find their "other you." The sweepstakes is kicking off today and will continue through December 7, 2009.

"This photo sweepstakes is a wonderful way to extend the reach of our campaign with the Forest Service and engage children and their families in developing a love for nature," said Peggy Conlon, CEO and President of The Ad Council. "We are excited to see the submissions when they come in and are grateful to The North Face for generously donating the prizes."

Sweepstakes participants will provide a photo or an original piece of artwork that represents their journey in nature. By visiting sweeps.discovertheforest.com, parents can submit their children's picture or drawing depicting what they have discovered or experienced in nature. Each image will be reviewed by a third party vendor who will then post all approved entries to the public gallery. The North Face, the world's premier supplier of authentic, innovative and technically advanced outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear, has donated the prizes, which feature gift cards to its store.

"Connecting kids with nature is the key to creating the stewards of tomorrow," said USDA Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell. "This sweepstakes builds on our 'Re-connecting Children with Nature' campaign and is a fun and creative way to encourage families to spend time together in the forest."

The sweepstakes winners will be chosen at random on a weekly basis from the pool of validated entries. Two winners will be selected on the Friday of each week during the sweepstakes period. The grand prize and ten (10) first prize winners will be drawn a week prior to the conclusion of the sweepstakes. The prizes will total $3,000, with the ten (10) first prizes being $100 gift cards, followed by 20 weekly prizes of $50 gift cards, and a grand prize of $1,000. Each winner will be notified individually. Visitors to the contest site can also view the public gallery to vote. Voters will only be allowed to give the picture a "thumbs up" and are encouraged to vote by being offered an additional chance to win a weekly prize.

"The North Face is committed to outdoor participation and education," said Aaron Carpenter, The North Face Vice President, Marketing. "US Forest Service and Ad Council's 'Re-Connecting Kids with Nature' campaign is a fun, authentic way to encourage tweens to embrace nature and the outdoors."

First launched on National Get Outdoors day (June 13, 2009), the goal of the Re-Connecting Kids with Nature PSA campaign is to encourage children to get outside and experience nature first-hand, instilling a life-long love for nature by fostering a connection with urban and national forests. The campaign's PSAs show the freeing aspects a nature experience can provide by depicting the various qualities -- the curious you, the creative you, the adventurous you -- that tweens can discover about themselves in nature. The TV spots depict children engaging with nature in various ways and encourage audiences to discover the forest, "where the other you lives."

The campaign directs children to visit www.DiscoverTheForest.org, which features a zip code search of forests and parks, powered by Nature FindT and Google Maps, as well as downloadable activities to take with them.

U.S. Forest Service
The U.S. Forest Service (www.fs.fed.us) manages 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands for the American Public. Its mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The U.S. Forest Service is the agency responsible for overseeing the use of Smokey Bear in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and The Advertising Council.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:
U.S. Forest Service
Press Office
202-205-1134

The Ad Council
Ellyn Fisher
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

The North Face
Pamela Bennett
510-618-3654
pamela_bennett@vfc.com

Tina Fey to Host the Ad Council's 56th Annual Public Service Award Dinner

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 09:08:00 GMT

Coca-Cola's Muhtar Kent to Receive Distinguished Honor

NEW YORK, September 30, 2009 - The Advertising Council announced today that actress and comedienne Tina Fey will host its 56th Annual Public Service Award Dinner. The event, to be held on November 18th at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City, will honor Muhtar Kent, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Coca-Cola Company.

Tina Fey is the creator, writer, executive producer and star of the 3 time Emmy award-winning NBC comedy series 30 Rock. Fey's charity work includes activities on behalf of Autism Speaks, the Ad Council's partner on their national Autism Awareness PSA campaign. Fey is also the 2009 spokesperson for the 2009 Light the Night Walk, which benefits the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

"We are thrilled to have Tina Fey host our Annual Public Service Award Dinner this year in honor of Muhtar Kent," said Peggy Conlon, President and CEO of the Ad Council. "Tina is a brilliant comedienne, actress and producer, and I know she will be a wonderful host."

Previous hosts of the Ad Council's dinner include Ellen DeGeneres, Brian Williams, Diane Sawyer and Anderson Cooper. Attended by prominent members of the media, advertising and corporate communities, the dinner serves as a tribute to the industries and individuals who support the Ad Council and its public service advertising (PSA) campaigns. In keeping with tradition, this year's award will be presented by last year's recipient, Jeffrey Immelt, Chairman and CEO, GE. The dinner is being chaired by Brian Perkins, Corporate Vice President, Johnson & Johnson, and Chair of the Ad Council.

The public service award dinner is the Ad Council's largest fundraising event for the Ad Council, raising $2.4 million last year. Platinum sponsors include Time Warner Inc. and Yahoo! Inc. who are underwriting the After-party and cocktail reception respectively.

Previous recipients of the Annual Public Service A ward include Dick Parsons (Time Warner), Bill Weldon (Johnson & Johnson), Ken Chenault (American Express), Bob Wright (GE/NBC), Ted Turner, Katharine Graham and A.G. Lafley (Procter & Gamble).

The Ad Council is a non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer talent from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public. Having produced literally thousands of PSA campaigns addressing the most pressing social issues of the day, the Ad Council has effected, and continues to effect, tremendous positive change by raising awareness, inspiring action and saving lives. To learn more about the Ad Council and its campaigns, visit www.adcouncil.org.

American Diabetes Association and Ad Council Launch New Ads and Online Tools to Help Those with Diabetes Reduce their Risk for Serious Complications

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 10:28:00 GMT

2 out of 3 Americans with Diabetes Die of a Heart Attack or Stroke

The American Diabetes Association and the Ad Council, working with the National Council of La Raza and the American Association of Diabetes Educators, are joining today to launch a new series of national public service advertisements (PSAs) and online tools designed to raise awareness of the risks of uncontrolled diabetes and help those Americans with diabetes take the first steps toward staying healthy.

There are nearly 24 million children and adults in the U.S. currently living with diabetes and that population is growing at epidemic proportions, according to the American Diabetes Association. One new case is diagnosed every 20 seconds in our country, and the disease and its complications kill one American every seven minutes. While those with diabetes are generally aware of complications associated with the disease, many are not aware of their true risk for certain deadly diabetes-related complications, such as heart attack and stroke.

"These PSAs are what we need to further educate people with diabetes about the deadly complications that can occur if one does not properly manage his or her disease," said R. Paul Robertson MD, President, Medicine & Science, American Diabetes Association. "We are excited to once again continue our collaboration with the Ad Council to reach hundreds of communities in need of education. Education is a key component to changing the future of diabetes."

The campaign aims to reach all Americans who have diabetes with a particular emphasis on African Americans and Hispanic Americans. According to the Association, African Americans are 1.8 times more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than Caucasian Americans and Hispanic Americans are 1.6 times more likely to have diabetes. Created pro bono by ad agency McCann Erickson and its McCann HumanCare unit in New York, the campaign includes new English and Spanish-language television, radio and web PSAs, as well as Spanish print and English-language outdoor PSAs.

The PSAs illustrate how serious complications of diabetes can arise suddenly and without warning, and encourage those with diabetes to proactively engage their health care providers in a conversation about understanding and managing their risk factors.

The ads are an extension of the American Diabetes Association and Ad Council's national multimedia campaign, which first launched in 2007.

"We are delighted to continue our partnership with the American Diabetes Association which will further educate Americans with diabetes about how they can reduce their risk for serious life-threatening complications and improve the quality of their lives," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "The compelling PSAs and the wonderful new online resources will provide those with diabetes with the tools they need to take control of their diabetes."

The campaign drives audiences to visit two new websites, www.diabetesactnow.org and www.diabetesactuaya.org. The comprehensive websites give adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes friendly, supportive places to get simple answers and learn easy actions to help reduce and/or prevent complications like heart attack and stroke. Each site features a diabetes health care professional who explains why people with diabetes need to know their ABCs (A1C - a measure of average glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol), and includes a library of entertaining videos designed to help users make easy lifestyle changes to improve their diabetes numbers. The English-language site features a personal dashboard where users can track their progress and select action plans. In addition, a new interactive widget provides users with diabetes-related content and resources that can be accessed directly on their personal desktops.

The campaign's Spanish-language materials also include a toll-free number (800-533-9623) to learn more about how to effectively manage diabetes and a brochure that addresses the dangers of heart attack and stroke. The brochure describes the importance of controlling diabetes patients' ABCs and provides tips to help patients reach their goals, including a diabetes goals card, while encouraging those with diabetes to work with health care providers.

"We are proud to be able to work with the Ad Council and our sponsors to help people with diabetes get more directly involved with their treatment," said Andrew Schirmer, EVP and Managing Director of the HumanCare unit at McCann Erickson. "We found that we had to grab folks by the lapels a bit to make them aware that if diabetes is not controlled effectively it can lead to problems now, and not just down the road."

The new PSAs are being distributed to approximately 33,000 media outlets nationwide this week. Per the Ad Council's model, all of the ads will air and run in advertising time and space donated by the media. Beginning this week, an integrated social media program will extend the reach of the PSA campaign online with strategies designed to engage and educate those with diabetes throughout the country.

American Diabetes Association
The American Diabetes Association is leading the fight against the deadly consequences of diabetes and fighting for those affected by diabetes. The Association funds research to prevent, cure, and manage diabetes; delivers services to hundreds of communities; provides objective and credible information; and gives voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes. Founded in 1940, its mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. For more information, please call the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383) or visit www.diabetes.org. Information from both these sources is available in English and Spanish.

The Ad Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

McCann Erickson New York
McCann Erickson New York, the flagship and single largest office of McCann Erickson Worldwide, handles some of world's most successful and famous brands. McCann HumanCare is its consumer healthcare and wellness unit, with expertise in direct-to-consumer healthcare advertising and Spanish-language healthcare marketing through HumanCare Salud. The companies are part of McCann Worldgroup, one of the world's leading marketing communications companies.

Contacts:
The Ad Council
Press Office
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

McCann Erickson
Ray Roel
646-865-3127

American Diabetes Association
CHristine Feheley
703-253-4374
cfeheley@diabetes.org

The Ad Council, the Humane Society of the United States and Maddie's Fund Launch First National PSA Campaign to Encourage Pet Adoption from Shelters

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 09:11:24 GMT
The Shelter Pet Project Marks First Ad Council Campaign to Focus on Pets
NEW YORK, September 24, 2009- The Advertising Council, in partnership with The Humane Society of the United States and Maddie's Fund, announced today the launch of The Shelter Pet Project, a national public service advertising (PSA) campaign, designed to encourage pet lovers throughout the country to make shelters their first choice for acquiring companion animals. The Shelter Pet Project is the first national PSA campaign to bring together the largest animal welfare organizations and many shelters across the country for one unified goal-to increase pet adoption.

There are approximately 75 million dogs and 88 million cats in American households. Presently, most people do not obtain their pets from shelters, but rather from pet stores, the Internet, friends, neighbors, breeders or other sources. According to The Humane Society of the United States and Maddie's Fund, eight million pets enter shelters and rescue groups every year, with three million of these healthy and treatable pets euthanized due to a lack of adoption.

The Shelter Pet Project aims to change the public's perception of shelter pets and encourage Americans to save a pet's life by adopting from an animal shelter or rescue group. The campaign is geared toward all Americans, including current, past and potential pet owners, but particularly those who are planning on acquiring a pet within the next year and who have not yet decided where they will get their pet from.

"By reaching a subset of the population uncertain about where they'll obtain their next dog or cat and convincing them that an animal shelter is the best source, we can end the euthanasia of homeless dogs and cats in this country," said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States. "The animal welfare cause has never had an advertising campaign with this creativity."

"The death of animals in shelters is a national tragedy-one that we'll finally be able to end thanks to this historic campaign," said Rich Avanzino, Maddie's Fund President. "We are deeply indebted to the Ad Council and Draftfcb for turning national attention to the plight of shelter animals and inspiring people to adopt."

The humorous PSAs, created pro bono by Draftfcb Chicago, aim to break down the stereotypes associated with shelter pets and make shelters and rescue groups the desired place for people to find a pet. The ads feature stories of how pets come into shelters through no fault of their own, but due to owners' issues, such as divorce, financial difficulty and ill-prepared owners. The television, radio, print, outdoor and Web ads direct audiences to visit a new comprehensive Website, www.theshelterpetproject.org, to find out more information about how to adopt a pet from a shelter. The Website also includes a "Pet Personals" section, where users are asked questions about themselves and are then matched with potential pets from a local shelter or rescue group using the Petfinder.com database.

"We are proud to join with The HSUS and Maddie's Fund on this very important campaign, the first in our 67-year history that will benefit pets," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "This campaign will help change the conversation about pet shelters and help Americans understand that they are a wonderful place to adopt a pet. Ultimately, our efforts will provide loving homes for healthy shelter dogs and cats throughout the country."

"This is an excellent and overdue opportunity to put our expertise to work on behalf of perfectly healthy, wonderfully friendly animals desperate for someone to care for them," said Mark Modesto, president of Draftfcb Chicago. "When our Executive Chairman Howard Draft first approached Peggy Conlon with the idea, everyone recognized that this was an unprecedented opportunity to educate a national audience on this important issue."

In addition to the new PSAs and website, The Shelter Pet Project will engage the target audiences through a series of social media strategies, including blog and online outreach, as well as social networking initiatives. The campaign will encourage advocates, shelter workers, pet lovers and all Americans to become a "fan" and take a pledge to adopt a pet on Facebook. Audiences will also have the opportunity to sign up on Twitter to receive tweets about adoptable shelter pets, and view the new PSAs through YouTube.

Facebook

Twitter

MySpace

All of the new PSAs are being distributed to more than 33,000 media outlets nationwide this week. Per the Ad Council model, the PSAs will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media. Initial partnerships include a commitment from Animal Planet to air the TV PSAs on their network over the next year beginning September 24 as part of their national campaign R.O.A.R., Reach Out. Act. Respond dedicated to helping animals in need, whose principal partners include The Humane Society of the United States and Petfinder.com.

A second series of PSAs, including TV, outdoor and Web banners, were developed in collaboration with Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment and will be distributed nationwide. The PSAs, which feature the lovable characters from Disney's Santa Buddies, aim to further elevate the issue of pet adoption by engaging parents as well as their children.

The Humane Society of the United States
The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization - backed by 11 million Americans, or one of every 28. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty. To learn more about HSUS, please visit www.humanesociety.org.

Maddie's Fund
Maddie's Fund� The Pet Rescue Foundation, is a family foundation funded by Workday and PeopleSoft Founder Dave Duffield and his wife, Cheryl. Maddie's Fund is helping to create a no-kill nation where all healthy and treatable shelter dogs and cats are guaranteed a loving home. Maddie's Fund is named after the family's beloved Miniature Schnauzer.

Draftfcb
Draftfcb is the first global, behavior-based, holistic marketing communications organization to operate against a single P&L. In delivering its clients a high Return on IdeasSM,, the agency is driven by The 6.5 Seconds That MatterSM, a creative expression recognizing the brief period of time marketers have to capture consumers' attention and motivate them to act. With nearly 140 years of combined expertise, Draftfcb has roots in both consumer advertising and behavioral, data-driven direct marketing and firmly believes there is no way to separate creativity from accountability. Part of the Interpublic Group of Companies (NYSE:IPG), the Draftfcb network spans 97 countries with more than 9,600 employees.

The Ad Council
The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization that marshals volunteer talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to deliver critical messages to the American public. The Ad Council has produced, distributed and promoted thousands of public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas of health & safety, community and education.

CONTACT:
Beth Shanley
The Ad Council
212-984-1923
bshanley@adcouncil.org

Heather Sullivan
The Humane Society of the United States
301-548-7778
hsullivan@humanesociety.org

Lynn Spivak
Maddie's Fund
510-337-8979
spivak@maddiesfund.org

Michelle McGowan
Draftfcb
312-425-6013
michelle.mcgowan@draftfcb.com

Verizon Brings Ad Council PSAs on Teen Dating Abuse to Mobile, Internet and TV

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 09:23:37 GMT

First-of-its-kind Three-Screen Campaign Highlights Teen Dating Abuse and Provides Resources at ThatsNotCool.com

BASKING RIDGE, N.J., and NEW YORK - Verizon has teamed with the Advertising Council to bring a public service advertising campaign to Americans across three screens: Verizon Wireless' Mobile Web service, and Verizon FiOS Internet and Verizon FiOS TV. The Ad Council's campaign, "That's Not Cool," features public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to help teens recognize digital dating abuse and take steps to prevent it.

While the Ad Council has always maintained a strong presence across the television, mobile, and Web platforms, the collaboration with Verizon signifies the first time a media partner has embraced an Ad Council campaign across all three outlets to ensure synergy and maximize impact.

"These important PSAs leverage the various Verizon services to bring maximum impact," said John Harrobin, senior vice president of digital media and marketing at Verizon. "We're extending the reach of this important work to the online and wireless communities, and we look forward to learning from this so we can continue to bring effective, multi-faceted public service campaigns to our customers."

"We are thrilled to collaborate with Verizon on this critical campaign to help prevent teen dating abuse," said Peggy Conlon, president and chief executive officer, Ad Council. "Partnering with Verizon will help raise awareness with teens and give them tools to avoid digital abuse that they may be experiencing by featuring our messages in an innovative way in the digital world."

"That's Not Cool" was developed by the Ad Council, in partnership with the Family Violence Prevention Fund and the Office on Violence Against Women at the U.S. Department of Justice. The campaign, which includes print, television, radio, online and mobile elements, is designed to help teens recognize digital dating abuse and empower them to initiate a conversation about it. The PSAs also direct audiences to visit www.ThatsNotCool.com, where teens can find tools to "draw their own digital line" and a "Talk it Out" forum to discuss this form of relationship abuse and seek help.

"The more people we can reach with practical, realistic messages about what's cool and what's not cool when it comes to relationships, the more we can help prevent the cycle of violence from recurring," said Esta Soler, president of the Family Violence Prevention Fund. "We thank Verizon, the Ad Council, and the Office on Violence Against Women for continuing to distribute this message and support this cause."

Verizon has a long history of supporting domestic violence prevention and awareness through its HopeLine� phone recycling program and through the Verizon Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the company. This campaign represents an extension of the company's work educating communities about domestic violence and provides additional opportunities to raise awareness of domestic violence among teenagers.

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable and largest wireless voice and data network, serving 87.7 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with more than 87,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

About Verizon
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE: VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, serving more than 87 million customers nationwide. Verizon's Wireline operations provide converged communications, information and entertainment services over the nation's most advanced fiber-optic network. Wireline also includes Verizon Business, which delivers innovative and seamless business solutions to customers around the world. A Dow 30 company, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of more than 235,000 and last year generated consolidated operating revenues of more than $97 billion. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:
Debra Lewis
Verizon Wireless
917.848.0035 (mobile)
Debra.Lewis@verizonwireless.com

Beth Shanley
Ad Council
212.984.1923
bshanley@adcouncil.org

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Joins Ad Council and Warner Bros. Pictures to Combat Childhood Overweight and Obesity

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 10:04:22 GMT

PSAs Featuring Characters from "Where the Wild Things Are" Encourage Children to Play Every Day

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Ad Council today launched a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to address childhood overweight and obesity. Featuring characters from the upcoming film, Where the Wild Things Are, the PSAs are an extension of HHS' Childhood Obesity Prevention campaign with the Ad Council, which encourages children and families to lead healthy lifestyles. The ads are being distributed to media outlets nationwide this week.

According to HHS' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the percentage of young people who are overweight has more than tripled since 1980, with more than 9 million school age children over the age of 6 in the U.S. considered overweight. In addition to the psychological and social issues of stigmatization, overweight children are at far greater risk of growing into adults who have cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and other chronic diseases that may reduce the length and quality of their lives. A recent report also illustrated that the health cost of obesity in the United States is as high as $147 billion annually.

Created pro bono by Warner Bros. Pictures, the new TV, radio, print, outdoor and Internet PSAs feature characters and scenes from the film Where the Wild Things Are, adapted from Maurice Sendak's classic children's story. Directed by Spike Jonze, the feature adventure is scheduled to open nationwide October 16, 2009. The television ads feature the film's young star, Max Records, running, jumping and having fun in the wild with various creatures from the story.

The campaign encourages kids to start their own Wild Rumpus by finding time to play every day and touts the benefits of regular physical activity. All of the PSAs conclude with a call-to-action - "The Wild is Out There, Did You Play Today?" and urge families to visit www.smallstep.gov for great play ideas. The website provides fun, interactive and helpful information on physical activity and healthy eating.

"Childhood overweight and obesity are serious concerns for children and adolescents in the U.S.," said Howard Koh, M.D., M.P.H, HHS' assistant secretary for health. "Good health starts with healthy habits, and regular physical activity promotes long-term health benefits. I'm encouraged by our efforts with the Ad Council to promote physical activity among young people."

The new PSAs are a continuation of the Ad Council and HHS' successful Childhood Obesity Prevention campaign that first launched in 2005 and the Ad Council's Coalition for Healthy Children initiative, which encourages marketers to adopt consistent healthy lifestyle messages. Previous PSAs for the campaign and Coalition have featured characters from DreamWorks' Shrek and National Football League players urging children to "Be a Player" and engage in physical activity for an hour a day.

"This new series of PSAs is a wonderful extension of our efforts with HHS to address childhood obesity," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "Where the Wild Things Are is a classic and the film's beloved characters will help encourage children throughout the country to become more active and reduce their risk for obesity. We are grateful to Warner Bros. for donating their resources for these PSAs."

"Warner Bros. applauds the ongoing efforts of HHS and the Ad Council to protect the health of children with campaigns like this, designed to appeal to them on a personal level. As part of that effort, we're happy to offer images from Where The Wild Things Are, to remind kids that being a Wild Thing means going outside to play," says Gene Garlock, senior vice president of promotions for Warner Bros. Pictures Worldwide Marketing.

Per the Ad Council's model, all of the new PSAs will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media. To date, the Childhood Obesity Prevention campaign has received more than $179 million in donated media support.

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
The Department of Health and Human Services is the United States government's principal agency for protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services, especially for those who are least able to help themselves. The department includes more than 300 programs, covering a wide spectrum of activities, including medical and social science research, preventing outbreak of infectious disease, including immunization services, assuring food and drug safety, welfare, and Medicare and Medicaid.

About the Film
Warner Bros. Pictures presents, in association with Legendary Pictures and Village Roadshow Pictures, a Playtone/Wild Things Production of a Spike Jonze film: Where the Wild Things Are. Maurice Sendak's classic book comes to the big screen in an adventure tale for every generation, starring Catherine Keener, Max Records and Mark Ruffalo, Lauren Ambrose, Chris Cooper, James Gandolfini, Catherine O'Hara and Forest Whitaker. Where the Wild Things Are is directed by Spike Jonze from a screenplay by Spike Jonze & Dave Eggers, based on the book by Maurice Sendak. It is produced by Tom Hanks, Gary Goetzman, Maurice Sendak, John Carls and Vincent Landay, with Thomas Tull, Jon Jashni and Bruce Berman serving as executive producers. The creative team includes director of photography Lance Acord, production designer K. K. Barrett, editor Eric Zumbrunnen and costume designer Casey Storm. Music is by Karen O and Carter Burwell.

Where the Wild Things Are will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, and in select territories by Village Roadshow Pictures. It is rated PG by the MPAA for mild thematic elements, some adventure action and brief language. Soundtrack Album is available on DGC/Interscope Records. www.wherethewildthingsare.com

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

The goal of the Ad Council's Coalition for Healthy Children is to help address the obesity crisis that confronts our nation and its children. Its mission is to provide clear, consistent, research-based messages to children and parents on the importance of practicing a healthier lifestyle and offer them the means to do it. This can be achieved by harnessing the combined strengths of marketers, media companies, non-profit groups and government agencies. The Coalition's members have made a commitment to the promotion of healthy living to our nation's families and have agreed to incorporate the Coalition's messages into their own communications programs. For more information about the Coalition, please visit www.HealthyChildrenCoalition.org.

Press Contacts:
The Ad Council
Ellyn Fisher
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

Warner Bros. Pictures
Dennis Higgins
818-954-6649
dennis.higgins@warnerbros.com

HHS Press Office
202-690-6343

Ad Council and American Stroke Association Launch New PSAs to Encourage African Americans to Respond Early to Stroke Symptoms

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 10:11:40 GMT
NEW YORK, September 9, 2009 - The Advertising Council and the American Stroke Association announced today the launch of new public service advertisements (PSAs) intended to raise awareness among African Americans of the early symptoms of stroke and to increase immediate stroke recognition and response.

According to the American Stroke Association (ASA), stroke is the number three killer in the United States and a leading cause of long-term disability. Tragically, African Americans are almost twice as likely to suffer a first-ever stroke as compared with white Americans. Furthermore, 105,000 African Americans suffer a stroke each year, resulting in about 17,500 deaths. Immediate emergency medical treatment may greatly reduce long-term disability caused by stroke but African American men and women hesitate to call 9-1-1.

The campaign, which originally launched in 2003, aims to empower potential at-risk African Americans and bystanders to act immediately by calling 9-1-1 at the first possible sign of a stroke.

Created pro bono by ad agency Burrell Communications, the campaign includes new television, radio, web and outdoor public service advertisements emphasizing to African Americans that "Stroke's No Joke." The TV, radio and banner PSAs feature comedians Alonzo Bodden and George Wilborn performing stand-up routines juxtaposed with the campaign's compelling "Stroke's No Joke" messages to illustrate the seriousness of stroke. All of the PSAs direct audiences to visit the new campaign website, www.strokesnojoke.org, where they can learn more about the risk factors and warning signs of stroke.

"We are pleased with the new PSA concepts and are confident that our partnership with Burrell Communications and the Ad Council will be well received by the public and will bring more awareness to this serious issue that is affecting too many African Americans," says Rani Whitfield, MD, Family Practitioner and American Stroke Association volunteer.

"We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the American Stroke Association and Burrell on this critical campaign," according to Peggy Conlon, President and CEO of The Advertising Council. "I believe these messages will educate African Americans about the importance of early response to the warning signs of a stroke."

"Burrell has a 30-year legacy of developing insight-based marketing communications that resonate with the African-American community, " said McGhee Williams Osee, Burrell's Co-CEO. " We welcomed the opportunity to draw upon our extensive healthcare marketing experience to shine an important spotlight on this critical issue, and encourage a meaningful dialogue that can help save lives."

The Ad Council is distributing the new PSAs to media outlets nationwide. Per the Ad Council's model, all of the PSAs will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media.

The American Stroke Association

Created in 1997 as a division of the American Heart Association, the American Stroke Association works to improve stroke prevention, diagnosis and treatment to save lives from stroke - America's No. 3 killer and a leading cause of serious disability. To do this, we fund scientific research, help people better understand and avoid stroke, encourage government support, guide healthcare professionals, and provide information to stroke survivors and their caregivers to enhance their quality of life. To learn more, call 1-888-4STROKE or visit strokeassociation.org.

Burrell Communications

Burrell Communications is a full-service marketing communications company with offices in Chicago, Atlanta and Los Angeles. In business for more than 30 years, Burrell is a leader in understanding and motivating consumer behavior in the African-American and Yurban(R) markets. The agency's client roster includes: McDonald's, Procter & Gamble, Toyota, General Mills, Weight Watchers, ShoreBank, American Airlines, Walt Disney World Resorts, Allstate, Eli Lilly and Zimmer. For more information, visit http://www.burrell.com.

The Advertising Council

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contact:
Beth Shanley
The Ad Council
212-984-1923
bshanley@adcouncil.org

Elisa Ramirez Johnson
American Stroke Association
(214) 706-1508
Elisa-ramirez.johnson@heart.org

President Obama Joins the U.S. Army and the Ad Council to Communicate the Importance of Education for America's Youth

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 10:39:25 GMT
New PSAs Feature President Obama Encouraging Americans to Support Students as part of a National High School Dropout Prevention Campaign (www.boostup.org)

In time for the first day of school for many children across the U.S., President Obama is joining the Ad Council and the U.S. Army to launch a new series of television and radio public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to encourage Americans to take responsibility and support high school students on their path to graduation. The new ads, which feature the President, are a part of the Ad Council and the U.S. Army's High School Dropout Prevention "Boost" campaign. They are being distributed to media outlets nationwide to coincide with a special address President Obama will deliver directly to students in grades K-12 on Tuesday, September 8th on the importance of taking responsibility for their education. The speech will be broadcast live at 12:00 pm EST on www.whitehouse.gov/live and C-SPAN.

Nearly 30 percent of high school students in the U.S. drop out, according to a report released by the America's Promise Alliance (Cities in Crisis: A Special Analytic Report on High School Graduation). In the new TV and radio PSAs, President Obama communicates that he couldn't have achieved his success without first graduating from high school. The President points to his high school graduation photo and describes how it paved the way for his inauguration photo. President Obama then urges all parents, friends, educators and neighbors to do whatever it takes to help support and encourage high school students in their education.

"We need all students to develop their talents, skills and intellect so they can help solve our most difficult problems," said President Obama. "If students don't do that - if they quit on school - they're not just quitting on themselves, they're quitting on their country."

During the speech, the President will challenge students to work hard, set educational goals, and take responsibility for their learning. In advance of the address, the Department of Education is providing teachers with resources to help engage students and stimulate discussion on the importance of education.

"We are delighted to have President Obama join our Boost campaign designed to encourage students to stay in school and graduate. Research shows that the decision to drop out doesn't happen overnight and it isn't due to lack of motivation for many students. Through the President's words, these wonderful PSAs highlight the importance of motivating and challenging students and they help continue our campaign's goal to develop a community of support for students who need it," said Peggy Conlon, President and CEO of the Ad Council.

The Ad Council and the U.S. Army kicked off their High School Dropout Prevention initiative in 2000. Now called "Boost" and created pro bono by ad agency Publicis New York, the campaign portrays the real stories of potential graduates who are at risk of dropping out. The PSAs encourage teens, parents and adults to give these students and students in their communities the "boost" of encouragement they need to stay in school and graduate. The ads direct audiences to visit www.boostup.org, where they can send "boosts" to either students in their own communities or the profiled students. There are also sections on the website for parents and teens, which provide resources and guidance on issues relating to school, crisis and community.

The "Boost" campaign leverages the leading social networking websites (YouTube, Facebook, and MySpace) to provide opportunities to support teens. In addition to the PSAs, the campaign features a series of wake-up calls and alarm ringtones recorded by professional athletes that teens can share with friends and peers to provide the motivation to get up and go to school in the morning. New York Knicks' Nate Robinson, Chicago Bears' Lance Briggs, Phoenix Suns' Amare Stoudemire and Baltimore Ravens' Willis McGahee donated their time to record the messages, which can be downloaded at www.BoostUp.org/WakeUp. Furthermore, students can download an interactive "Countdown to Graduation" widget to help them stay on track to graduation.

"Nearly thirty percent of American high school students aren't graduating. Not because they don't want to graduate, but because of outside, personal situations including having to support family income, teen pregnancy and other issues," said Rob Feakins, President and Chief Creative Officer of Publicis New York. "These students need all of our support. And we welcome the support of President Obama."

Since its launch in November 2000, the Ad Council and the U.S. Army's High School Dropout initiative has received over $400 million in donated time and space from the media and is frequently ranked among the top ten supported Ad Council campaigns.

U.S. Army
Education is a top-priority public service issue for the U.S. Army. In 2000, they partnered with the Ad Council to start "Operation Graduation." This was a national campaign to motivate and encourage students to graduate high school. In 2006, the Ad Council and the US Army launched Boost, a new approach to this dropout prevention campaign. Boost encourages teens to talk to their friends about staying in school, while providing their parents with tools and advice. All in an effort to give our teens the community of support they need to tackle one of the most important obstacles of their lives: graduation. To find out more about the US Army go to www.goarmy.com.

Publicis New York
Publicis New York is part of Publicis in the USA, the North American regional operating unit of Paris-based Publicis Worldwide, the largest global advertising network within the Publicis Groupe holding company. Among Publicis New York's clients are P&G, Beck's, Citi, L'Oreal, The Coca-Cola Company, T.G.I. Friday's, Whirlpool, Inc., and the Ad Council. For more information, please visit www.publicis-usa.com.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contact:
U.S. Army: LTC Nathan Banks, 703-697-7550

Ad Council Press Office: 212-984-1964

Publicis New York: Christie Giera, 212-279-5748

Deputy Mayor Skyler, Secretary Napolitano, OEM Commissioner Bruno, and American Red Cross in Greater NY CEO Terry Bischoff Kick Off National Preparedness Month with Launch of Ready NYC Campaign

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 10:22:48 GMT
Partnership with The Advertising Council Furthers City's Preparedness Efforts

Deputy Mayor Edward Skyler today joined Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano, Office of Emergency Management (OEM) Commissioner Joseph F. Bruno, American Red Cross in Greater New York (ARC/GNY) CEO Theresa Bischoff and The Advertising Council President and CEO Peggy Conlon to launch Ready New York City, a new public service advertising campaign designed to encourage New Yorkers to prepare for emergencies. The announcement was made in Times Square, at one of five National Preparedness Month kick-off events taking place across the city.

"New Yorkers know from experience how important it is to be prepared for the unexpected," Deputy Mayor for Operations Edward Skyler said. "National Preparedness Month provides an important opportunity for all New Yorkers to re-assess and re- adjust their preparedness plans, for themselves and for their families. Through efforts like the Ready New York City campaign, and with the support of partners like the American Red Cross, we are making great strides toward our ultimate goal: for every New Yorker to be as prepared as he or she can be."

"Preparedness is a shared responsibility that begins with the American people," said Secretary Napolitano. "These public service advertisements highlight the simple steps New Yorkers can take to prepare for disasters, enhancing the safety and security of the city. This new campaign is a great example of how local government and non-profit organizations are providing relevant resources for their communities."

"This marks the sixth year we are joining our Citizen Corps Council partners during National Preparedness Month to remind New Yorkers about the steps they should take to prepare for emergencies - get a kit, make a plan, get informed," said Commissioner Bruno. "This September is particularly special because we are also partnering with the American Red Cross in Greater New York and the Ad Council to bolster our outreach efforts through "Ready New York City," our new advertising campaign, which will carry our message of personal and family preparedness to New Yorkers we haven't reached so far."

"Every day the American Red Cross in Greater New York responds to disasters and emergencies where we see the added suffering that results when people are not ready," said American Red Cross in Greater New York CEO Theresa Bischoff. "It is for this reason that we are thrilled to be a part of this very necessary and compelling campaign that serves as a call to action for all New Yorkers to be prepared before a disaster strikes."

The Ready New York City campaign uses the metaphor "a disaster can turn your world (or your family's world) upside down." The campaign will include a television ad, two radio spots and four print designs that will be placed in newspapers, online, and in outdoor advertising spaces such as bus shelters, phone kiosks, and billboards. Ready New York City also features a website that hosts information to help New Yorkers follow up on the campaign's three central recommendations: 1) get a kit, 2) make a plan, and 3) be informed. Ready New York City's online content is available in English at www.readynyc.org or in Spanish at www.listonyc.org.

"Our research has found that New Yorkers often believe they are adequately prepared for an emergency, but many do not understand what it truly takes to be ready," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "We are proud to partner with Deputy Mayor Skyler, OEM, and the American Red Cross in Greater New York on this new campaign that will provide the necessary motivation and resources for New York City to increase the level of public preparedness."

According to a 2009 OEM survey, 40 percent of New Yorkers say they do not feel prepared for an emergency. Additionally, 40 percent say they do not have any form of a household emergency plan and 73 percent do not have all of the recommended emergency supplies in their homes.

National Preparedness Month is a month-long nationwide campaign, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, to promote emergency preparedness and encourage volunteerism. Each September, the New York City Citizen Corps Council organizes National Preparedness Month activities throughout the city by bringing together disaster relief and other volunteer organizations to distribute information at fairs, host demonstrations, and lead preparedness presentations.

This year's National Preparedness Month focuses on changing perceptions about emergency preparedness and helping Americans understand what it means to be "ready." National Preparedness Month Coalition members will distribute emergency preparedness information and sponsor activities across the country that will promote preparedness. To see a list of Coalition members who have pledged their support and joined the 2009 National Preparedness Month Coalition, please visit http://www.ready.gov/america/npm09/members.htm.

Emergency Preparedness is one of the six strategic impact areas towards which NYC Service is dedicated to driving essential volunteer support. NYC Service was launched by Mayor Bloomberg in April to meet his State of the City pledge for New York City to lead the nation in answering President Obama's national call to service.

Ready New York City is an extension of a national campaign sponsored by the US Department of Homeland Security and developed by the Ad Council. Information on DHS's Ready Campaign is available at www.ready.gov.

In honor of National Preparedness Month, Clear Channel Spectacolor will run the 30-second Ready New York City television PSA on its digital billboard in Duffy Square once each hour during the month September, pro bono. Clear Channel Spectacolor has also donated a large (45 feet x 65 feet) vinyl billboard that will be displayed in Times Square during the month of September.

NYC & Company has garnered space from Cemusa and Vector Media on 25 telephone kiosks and 25 bus shelter panels. Ready New York City advertisements will be placed in the telephone kiosks for 12 weeks beginning in October. The ads will run in the bus shelter panels for four weeks beginning the first week of November.

Several additional media companies have made commitments to donate time and space to support the PSAs. These media companies include Clear Channel Outdoor, Clear Channel Radio NYC, Emmis Radio NYC, Lamar Outdoor, Van Wagner Outdoor, WABC-AM, WABC-TV, WCBS Radio, WCBS-TV, WFUT-TV (Telefutura), WNYW-TV (Fox 5), WPLJ-FM, WWOR-TV (My 9) and WXTV-TV (Univision).

For more information on the Ready New York City campaign, visit www.readynyc.org or call 311.

CONTACT:
OEM: Chris Gilbride (718) 422-4888
Ad Council Press Office (212) 984-1964
ARC/GNY Marianne Darlak (212) 875-2132
Cramer-Krasselt Kristin Fletcher (312) 616-2371

Secretary Napolitano and Fema Administrator Fugate Unveil New Ads to Encourage Emergency Preparedness

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 10:02:06 GMT
Debut of Public Service Advertisements Helps Launch National Preparedness Month

WASHINGTON-Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano today joined with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate and the Ad Council to launch a new series of Ready Campaign public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to encourage all Americans to take steps to prepare for emergencies, kicking off September's National Preparedness Month.

"Preparedness is a shared responsibility that begins with the American people," said Secretary Napolitano. "These public service advertisements highlight the simple steps everyone can take to prepare for disasters, enhancing the safety and security of our country."

"Emergency response is a team effort, and the most important member of that team is the public," said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. "The truth is, the more the public does now to prepare, the better we can respond in the future. That's why we are launching PSAs, encouraging Americans to visit Ready.gov and learn how they can do their part to prepare."

Produced pro bono by advertising agency Cramer-Krasselt in conjunction with the Ad Council, the new Ready PSAs-produced for television, radio, print, outdoor and the Web-direct audiences to visit www.ready.gov to find national and local preparedness information and resources.

The Ready Campaign encourages Americans to take three simple steps to prepare for emergencies: (1) Put together an emergency supply kit; (2) Make a family emergency plan; and (3) Get informed about the types of emergencies that could take place in their communities and appropriate responses.

Secretary Napolitano unveiled the new PSAs at an event in New York City's Times Square, joined by New York City Office of Emergency Management Commissioner Joseph Bruno, American Red Cross President and CEO Gail McGovern, American Red Cross in Greater New York CEO Theresa Bischoff and Ad Council President and CEO Peggy Conlon.

"Ready has made significant progress, but the farther we get from a major disaster, the more difficult the challenge in motivating Americans to prepare," said Ad Council President and CEO Peggy Conlon, "Our new PSAs, developed in partnership with DHS, are engaging and motivating and will go a long way in increasing our country's level of preparedness."

In addition to the national Ready PSAs launched today, New York City's new public service campaign-Ready New York-was also announced to encourage all New Yorkers to prepare for emergencies. The national Ready ads have also been localized for a number of other cities, including Austin, Texas, Atlanta, Chicago, Eugene, Ore., Houston, Kansas City, Mo., Los Angeles, and San Francisco-as well as the states of Utah and Virginia and the U.S. Navy and U.S. Virgin Islands.

Initiated in 2003, the Ready Campaign is a national public service advertising campaign designed to educate and empower Americans to prepare for and respond to all emergencies in order to raise the level of basic preparedness across the nation.

In addition to outreach via traditional media, Ready also provides a series of social media tools to help Americans prepare for emergencies, including a downloadable family emergency plan, an interactive widget that provides users with updates on emergency situations, emergency kit checklists, and preparedness guidelines.

To view the PSAs and for more information on the Ready Campaign, visit www.ready.gov or follow "ReadydotGov" on Twitter.

CONTACT:
DHS Press Office, (202) 282-8010

Atmosphere Proximity launches The Big Ad Gig

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 10:22:24 GMT

In conjunction with The New York Times, The Advertising Council and Advertising Week 2009, this
Inaugural Event aims to Award Four Contestants, Jobs at Top Advertising Agencies around the Country

NEW YORK, Aug. 11, 2009 -- The Big Ad Gig (http://www.thebigadgig.com), a first ever event will be held at The New York Times Building on Thursday, September 24 in conjunction with Advertising Week 09. The premise of the event takes a page from the American Idol format: A panel of Creative Directors, CEOs and marketing leaders from Atmosphere Proximity, Ogilvy, Crispin, Saatchi & Saatchi Wellness, the Ad Council and Microsoft Advertising, will be judging presentations from eight contestants, all vying for the chance to work a 30-day paid freelance gig at one of these top ad agencies. The New York Times advertising columnist Stuart Elliot will be moderating this event.

At the end of this summer-long contest, a final eight aspiring advertising creatives will be selected, and will compete for jobs at the country's top agencies. Judges will offer jobs at their ad shops to the top contestants based on their portfolio, a video submission and, ultimately, their ability to present their pitch from an Ad Council brief live in front of an audience during Advertising Week.

One winning campaign will be produced on behalf of the Ad Council and run across multiple screens and donated inventory from Microsoft Advertising's media properties including gaming, online and mobile.

"The Big Ad Gig's focus is on awarding upcoming and deserving talent with top ad gigs at leading agencies. One of our initial ideas with this event was to find partners to help discover and award jobs to future ad stars, and we are thrilled with the caliber of judges, agencies and marketing outlets that have enthusiastically embraced our idea," said Andreas Combuechen, chairman, CEO and chief creative officer, Atmosphere Proximity.

"The Times is pleased to collaborate with top advertising agencies for this exciting event," said Denise Warren, chief advertising officer, The New York Times Media Group and general manager, NYTimes.com. "The Big Ad Gig event is just one way we can help foster promising creative talent."

"This is a wonderful opportunity to engage our industry's best and brightest new talent in developing creative that makes a real difference," said Priscilla Natkins, executive vice president and director of client services at the Ad Council. "Our hope is that this contest will instill a lifelong commitment to using the power of advertising to creative positive social change."

"We are delighted to be part of The Big Ad Gig," said Tham Khai Meng, Worldwide creative director, Ogilvy & Mather, "Participating in this program allows us to support the industry's growth as well as young talent."

"I hope to be known as the Paula Abdul of advertising after this," Rob Reilly Partner/Co-executive creative director, Crispin Porter + Bogusky.

"It's a pleasure to work on an innovative project such as this," said Spots And Content executive producer Steven J. Levy.

"We are excited to help foster a new generation of advertising alent, and look forward to bringing the winning concept to life across all of Microsoft's multi-screen media properties, such as mobile, online and gaming," said Charles Johnson, general manager of mobile media, for Microsoft Advertising.

"Talent is the lifeblood of our industry and we need constant transfusions of fresh creative ideas, and fresh young creative people to keep it flowing," said Helayne Spivak, executive vice president and chief creative officer, of Saatchi & Saatchi Wellness.

"Kudos to The Times and all the Big Gig supporters . . . We're delighted to welcome this initiative into the mix for Advertising Week 2009," stated Advertising Week Executive Director Matt Scheckner.

To learn more about this exciting event, please log on to visit www.thebiggig.com.

Atmosphere Proximity is a full service digital marketing company whose core focus is building brand preference through the digital channel. Atmosphere is a member of the Omnicom Group of Companies. Omnicom Group (NYSE: OMC). For press inquiries, please contact Michelle Parks McCourt at (212) 827-2446, or email: michelle@atmosphereproximity.com

Ando Media to Serve Ad Council Radio PSAs via New PSAWire Platform

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 13:09:55 GMT
NEW YORK, August 12, 2009 - The Ad Council, the nation's leading producer of public service advertisements (PSAs), and Ando Media, the leading provider of real-time audience measurement and ad management solutions for the Internet audio market, announced today that Ando Media will offer Ad Council radio spots to streaming radio stations via a new web portal platform available to Ando Media's clients through their Ando console. PSAWire will be available starting today.

Similar to Ando Media's AdWire portal, PSAWire will provide broadcasters the opportunity to preview and insert Ad Council radio PSAs into their audio stream. The airtime and impressions donated for the spots will then be tracked and reported by Ando Media using their Webcast Metrics� Real Time Audience Measurement service.

"We are looking forward to our partnership with Ando Media, which will help further the reach of our radio PSAs online, and provide the data necessary to track the support received from streaming radio stations for the first time," said Tim Davis, Executive Vice President of Media at the Ad Council.

All of the Ad Council's 50 current national PSA campaigns have produced radio spots and the majority of the ads are cleared for Internet use. Across all forms of media, the Ad Council receives the largest support from the radio industry.
"We are pleased to have developed a system in conjunction with the Ad Council which provides an automated way for stations to opt into PSA campaigns and have them automatically run, saving time, energy and manual distribution of these campaigns to stations," stated Robert J. Maccini, President and CEO of Ando Media, LLC.

Per the Ad Council's model, the organization's PSAs are run and aired in advertising time and space donated by the media. Last year, the media industry's donated support was valued at more than $1.8 billion across all Ad Council campaigns.

About Ando Media LLC
Ando Media is the leading provider of real-time audience measurement and ads management solutions for the Internet audio market. Founded in 2004, Ando Media is committed to enabling its clients to monetize their digital assets: audio, online, video and mobile. www.andomedia.com

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer talent from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public. Having produced literally thousands of PSA campaigns addressing the most pressing social issues of the day, the Ad Council has effected, and continues to effect, tremendous positive change by raising awareness, inspiring action, and saving lives. To learn more about the Ad Council and its campaigns, visit www.adcouncil.org.

Contacts:
Ellyn Fisher
The Ad Council
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org
Robert J. Maccini
Ando Media, LLC
401-454-5717
info@andomedia.com

Smokey Bear Celebrates His 65th Birthday and Returns to Remind Americans... "Only You Can Prevent Wildfires"

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 09:27:27 GMT

Smokey Bear stars in new CG-animated PSAs and appears on Facebook, MySpace and YouTube in time for July 4th

Washington, D.C., June 29, 2009 - The Advertising Council joined today with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters to launch a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to celebrate Smokey Bear's 65th birthday and provide critical information to Americans about wildfire prevention. The television, radio, print and online PSAs are being distributed prior to the July 4th holiday, a time when many people go camping, have outdoor BBQs and light fireworks.

Since his "birth" on August 9, 1944, Smokey Bear has been a recognized symbol of conservation and protection of America's forests. His message about wildfire prevention has helped to reduce the number of acres burned annually by wildfires, from about 22 million (1944) to an average of 7 million today. However, wildfire prevention remains one of the most critical environmental issues affecting our country. Many Americans believe that lightning starts most wildfires. In fact, on average, 9 out of 10 wildfires nationwide are caused by people. The principle causes are campfires left unattended, trash burning on windy days, arson, careless discarding of smoking materials or BBQ coals, and operating equipment without spark arrestors.

Created pro bono by ad agency Draftfcb, the same volunteer agency that has created work for the campaign since 1944, the new PSAs specifically target young adults who live in the wildland/urban interface-people who are likely to be casual campers, hikers, or mountain bikers -to remind them that Smokey is counting on them to prevent human-caused wildfires. The new PSAs seek to continue to decrease the number of human-caused wildfires and one new TV spot is designed specifically to celebrate Smokey's birthday. The ads feature CG-animation and encourage young adults to "Get Your Smokey On" - that is, to become like Smokey and speak up when others are acting carelessly.

"Smokey Bear is the nation's symbol for wildfire prevention and his important message has been communicated to generations of Americans during the past sixty five years," said Helene Cleveland, Fire Prevention Program Manager, U.S. Forest Service. "Smokey's enduring message is as critical today as it was when he was introduced in 1944 and I am confident that our new PSAs will continue to raise awareness about wildfire prevention issues."

The PSAs direct audiences to visit the campaign's website, www.smokeybear.com, where they can take a pledge and learn more about wildfire prevention. Sections of the website, including the historical overview of the campaign, or "Smokey's Journey," and the kids section of the site "Smokey Kids" have recently been re-designed by Cannery Agency. In addition to the new PSAs and website, Smokey Bear now has profile pages on Facebook, MySpace and YouTube to further the reach of his messages to young adults:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/smokeybear

MySpace: www.myspace.com/wildfireprevention

YouTube: www.youtube.com/smokeybear

"Smokey Bear is the center of the longest-running and one of the most successful public service campaigns in U.S. history," said Peggy Conlon, President and CEO of the Ad Council. "Our Wildfire Prevention campaign has helped children and adults throughout the country understand their role in preventing wildfires and these new PSAs and online components will continue to have a significant impact."

Since 1944, Smokey Bear has been communicating his well-known message, "Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires." In 2001, the term 'Wildfires' was introduced to include all unwanted, unplanned fires in natural areas such as grass fires or brush fires. Smokey has been rated one of the most recognizable figures in America, ranking alongside Mickey Mouse and Santa Claus. Smokey is recognized by 97 percent of adults and 3 out of 4 adults are able to recall "Only You Can Prevent Wildfires" without prompting, according to an Ad Council tracking survey.

"Smokey is an American icon and we are honored to be part of continuing his legacy and furthering his message. Thanks to advances in technology and CG-animation, we were able to bring Smokey Bear to life in a realistic way, starting with launch of the "Get your Smokey on" campaign last year," said Hilary Hamer, SVP, Group Management Director at Draftfcb Orange County. "We're always looking to ensure that Smokey's message is not only still current, but relevant to our target audience."

The Ad Council will be distributing the new PSAs to media outlets nationwide this week. Per the organization's model, the PSAs are airing and running in advertising time that is donated by the media. Over the last 65 years, media outlets have donated more than $1 billion in time and space for the Wildfire Prevention campaign.

USDA FOREST SERVICE
The USDA Forest Service is the agency responsible for overseeing the use of Smokey Bear in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the Advertising Council. The U.S. Forest Service manages 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands for the American Public. Its mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF STATE FORESTERS
The National Association of State Foresters is comprised of the directors of forestry agencies from the fifty states, eight U.S. territories and associated states, and the District of Columbia. Through public-private partnership, NASF seeks to advance sustainable forestry, conservation, and protection of forest lands and their associated resources. As a partner with the USDA Forest Service, State Foresters are committed to the continued delivery of Smokey Bear's message of personal responsibility in wildfire protection.

DRAFTFCB
Draftfcb is a modern agency model for clients seeking creative, accountable marketing programs that build business and deliver a high Return on IdeasTM. With more than 136 years of combined expertise, the company has its roots in both consumer advertising and behavioral, data-driven direct marketing. The agency is the first global, behavior-based, holistic marketing communications organization to operate against a single P&L, and it places equal emphasis on creativity and accountability. The Draftfcb network spans 97 countries, with more than 9,600 employees worldwide, and is part of the Interpublic Group of Companies (NYSE: IPG). The agency's global corporate leadership team includes Howard Draft, executive chairman; Laurence Boschetto, CEO and president; Jonathan Harries, vice-chairman and worldwide chief creative officer; and Neil Miller, CFO. For more information, visit www.draftfcb.com.

THE ADVERTISING COUNCIL
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Ad Council to Honor The Coca-Cola Company CEO Muhtar Kent with 56th Annual Public Service Award

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 15:59:55 GMT
NEW YORK, June 24, 2009 - The Advertising Council will honor Muhtar Kent, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Coca-Cola Company, with its 56th Annual Public Service Award at the Ad Council's annual dinner to be held on November 18 at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City.

Attended by prominent members of the media, advertising and corporate communities, the dinner serves as a tribute to the industries and individuals who support the Ad Council and its public service advertising (PSA) campaigns. Chaired by Brian Perkins, Corporate Vice President, Johnson & Johnson, and Chair of the Ad Council, the dinner is the Ad Council's largest fundraising event, raising $2.4 million last year. Platinum sponsors will include Time Warner Inc. and Yahoo! Inc. and Printech, Inc. will serve as the silver sponsor.

The Ad Council has been honoring corporate leaders for their commitment to public service since 1953. Previous honorees include Dick Parsons, Bill Weldon, Ken Chenault, Bob Wright, Frank Bennack, Ted Turner, Katharine Graham and A.G. Lafley. In keeping with tradition, this year's award will be presented by last year's recipient, Jeffrey Immelt, Chairman and CEO, GE.

As Chairman & CEO of The Coca-Cola Company, Muhtar Kent has continued and expanded the global company's commitment to public service, providing significant contributions to many social issues addressed by the Ad Council's campaigns, including improving healthy lifestyles, preserving the environment and providing educational opportunities for students around the globe. The Coca-Cola Company has been supporting the Ad Council since 1947.

The Ad Council is a non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer talent from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public. Having produced literally thousands of PSA campaigns addressing the most pressing social issues of the day, the Ad Council has effected, and continues to effect, tremendous positive change by raising awareness, inspiring action and saving lives. To learn more about the Ad Council and its campaigns, visit www.adcouncil.org.

The Department of Health and Human Services Teams Up with The White House and The Ad Council to Launch New Fatherhood Public Service Campaign

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 15:46:05 GMT

PSA Features President Obama Encouraging Fathers to "Take time to be a dad today"

June 19, 2009 - Just in time for Father's Day weekend, the Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius announced a new public service campaign today promoting fatherhood that features a PSA by President Obama. The campaign, sponsored by the Department's Administration for Children and Families and the Advertising Council, can be found at www.fatherhood.gov. The public service announcements and supporting campaign materials are designed to remind fathers of the critical role they play in their children's lives.

In the opening PSA of the campaign, President Obama calls fatherhood "the most important job in a man's life." "Things can get busy, and sometimes we all fall short," he says, "but even the smallest moments can have the biggest impact on a child's life. Take time to be a dad today."

"Sometimes the simplest, smallest things can make a huge difference in a child's life," said Secretary Sebelius. "As the country gets ready to celebrate Father's Day, the President and the Administration are committed to encouraging and supporting efforts by parents and mentors to reach and connect with kids. The Department has a multitude of resources available at fatherhood.gov and we will be working closely with the White House to support their Fatherhood events and outreach in the coming days and weeks."

The announcements, scheduled to begin airing across the country on Father's Day weekend, are part of a media campaign to promote and encourage responsible fatherhood sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Administration for Children and Families.

They are the work of the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse, the Ad Council and the Campbell-Ewald agency of Detroit. To date, three television and six radio PSAs have been produced, in addition to multiple print, web and viral ads.

The PSAs encourage fathers to visit www.fatherhood.gov or call 1-877-4DAD411 for parenting tips and additional resources for fathers. To view the ads, visit www.fatherhood.gov or www.adcouncil.org.

"President Obama's involvement in the campaign is a continuation of the commitment he has shown to strengthening fatherhood. As our nation's 'First Dad,' President Obama's words are sure to be an inspiration this Father's Day and beyond," said Roland C. Warren, Media Campaign Director for the NRFC.

"We are delighted to join President Obama and Secretary Sebelius for this poignant campaign as we recognize all fathers nationwide this Sunday," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "I believe these PSAs will encourage more fathers this weekend and throughout the year to take an active role in their children's lives."

According to the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse (NRFC), an estimated 25 million children live without their biological fathers and are on average at least two to three times more likely to be poor, to use drugs, to experience educational, health and emotional and behavioral problems, to be victims of child abuse and to engage in criminal behavior than their peers who live with their married, biological (or adoptive) parents. Children with involved, loving fathers are significantly more likely to do well in school, have healthy self-esteem, exhibit empathy and pro-social behavior and avoid high-risk behaviors.

"We consider it an honor to work on behalf of the NRFC," said Bill Ludwig, Vice Chairman, Chief Creative Officer of Campbell-Ewald. "We are very proud that our work informs so many American families about the impact of a father's presence in a child's life and has inspired fathers to simply spend time with their kids. Having the support of President Obama magnifies the attention and the inspiration of this critical message."

Since its launch in 2008, the NRFC's Father Involvement campaign has received more than $38 million in donated media across television, radio, out-of-home, Internet and print.

HHS
Through the Department of Health and Human Services, the federal government supports responsible fatherhood in diverse ways. Because engaged fathers strengthen families and contribute to healthy outcomes for children, many of our programs integrate support for fathers. These include Head Start, child support programs, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. HHS also supports programs that focus on responsible fatherhood, such as the Promoting Responsible Fatherhood discretionary grant program administered by the Office of Family Assistance.

National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse
The National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse (NRFC) is funded by Administration for Children and Families' Office of Family Assistance's (OFA) efforts to assist States and communities to promote and support Responsible Fatherhood. Primarily a tool for professionals operating Responsible Fatherhood programs, the NRFC provides access to print and electronic publications, timely information on fatherhood issues, and targeted resources that support OFA-funded Responsible Fatherhood grantees. The NRFC Web site also provides essential information for other audiences interested in fatherhood issues. www.fatherhood.gov

Campbell-Ewald
Campbell-Ewald is the nation's eighth largest advertising and digital communications agency, with more than 1,300 employees and offices in Detroit, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, New York and Washington, D.C. A part of The Interpublic Group of Companies (NYSE:IPG), Campbell-Ewald partners with a score of national brands, including Alltel Wireless, Carhartt, Chevrolet, Farmers Insurance, Kaiser Permanente, Olympic Paints and Stains, OnStar, the United States Navy and the United States Postal Service. For more information on Campbell-Ewald, visit www.campbell-ewald.com.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer talent from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public. Having produced literally thousands of PSA campaigns addressing the most pressing social issues of the day, the Ad Council has effected, and continues to effect, tremendous positive change by raising awareness, inspiring action, and saving lives. To learn more about the Ad Council and its campaigns, visit www.adcouncil.org.

The Advertising Council, HHS' AdoptUsKids Launch New PSAs to Encourage Adoption of Children from Foster Care

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 09:21:37 GMT
New PSAs Feature Characters from Twentieth Century Fox's Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs

NEW YORK, June 17, 2009- The Advertising Council, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Administration for Children and Families (ACF) and AdoptUsKids, announced today the launch of a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to encourage prospective parents to consider adoption from foster care and raise awareness about the children who are currently waiting for a "forever family."

According to the Administration for Children and Families, approximately 293,000 children in the United States enter the U.S. foster care system each year through no fault of their own. There are currently 496,000 children living in foster care in the United States. Approximately 130,000 of the children are unable to return safely to their birth families and are eligible and waiting for adoption. The need for families for older youth and teens, children of color, and sibling groups is especially great. Approximately 42% of waiting children are ages 9 or older.

Since 2002, more than twenty thousand prospective families, representing all fifty states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, registered on the AdoptUsKids website to begin the process of adopting from foster care. Now more than ten thousand children who have been photo listed on the AdoptUsKids' website have been placed with permanent families.

The new PSAs are an extension of the previously successful campaign, launched in 2004, which aims to significantly increase awareness of the need for families who can provide loving, permanent homes for children of all ages in the foster care system.

The campaign communicates to prospective parents that "You don't have to be perfect to be a perfect parent." These new PSAs feature characters from Twentieth Century Fox's Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs. The characters add animated humor and fun and encourage prospective parents to consider adoption from foster care. Sid, an adoptive parent of three, demonstrates the challenges of parenthood as well as the rewards that accompany being a parent.

"AdoptUsKids is excited about this partnership with Fox. We are confident that using characters from Fox's Ice Age films will raise public awareness of the tremendous need for foster care and adoptive families for children in the U.S. Public child welfare system, said Kathy Ledesma, Project Director, AdoptUsKids."

"We are proud to continue this wonderful campaign with a new series of PSAs designed to encourage the adoption of children from the U.S. foster care system," according to Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "This campaign has had extraordinary success and I am confident the new ads will continue the momentum we have developed during the last few years."

The PSAs direct audiences to visit AdoptUsKids' comprehensive website, www.adoptuskids.org or call 1-888-200-4005 for more information on adoption from foster care.

Per the Ad Council model, the PSAs will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media.

The Administration for Children and Families
Within the federal Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) is the agency that is responsible for Federal programs that promote the economic and social well-being of families, children, individuals, and communities. The Administration on Children, Youth and Families (ACYF) administers national programs for children and youth; works with States, Tribes, and local communities to develop services that support and strengthen family life; seeks joint ventures with the private sector to enhance the lives of children and their families; and provides information and other assistance to parents. Many of the programs administered by ACYF focus on children from low-income families; abused and neglected children; children and youth in need of foster care, independent living, adoption or other child welfare services; preschool children; children with disabilities; runaway and homeless youth; and children from Native American and migrant families.

AdoptUsKids
AdoptUsKids is a multi-faceted, federally funded project whose mission is to recruit and connect foster and adoptive families with waiting children throughout the United States. The project is managed through a cooperative agreement with the Children's Bureau of the Administration of Children and Families of the Department of Health and Human Services.

"Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs"
The sub-zero heroes from the worldwide blockbusters "Ice Age" and "Ice Age: The Meltdown" are back, on an incredible adventure...for the ages.in ICE AGE: DAWN OF THE DINOSAURS. Scrat is still trying to nab the ever-elusive nut (while, maybe, finding true love); Manny and Ellie await the birth of their mini-mammoth, Sid the sloth gets into trouble when he creates his own makeshift family after finding some dinosaur eggs; and Diego the saber-toothed tiger wonders if he's growing too "soft" hanging with his pals. On a mission to rescue the hapless Sid, the gang ventures into a mysterious underground world, where they have some close encounters with dinosaurs, battle flora and fauna run amok - and meet a relentless, one-eyed, dino-hunting weasel named Buck. ICE AGE: DAWN OF THE DINOSAURS, in theaters everywhere July 1, has everything audiences loved about the first two films, adding even more comedy, action, spectacular visuals - plus the movie magic of 3-D.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:

Beth Shanley
The Ad Council
212-984-1923
bshanley@adcouncil.org

Kathy Ledesma
AdoptUsKids
410-933-5700
kledesma@adoptuskids.org

U.S. Forest Service and Ad Council Launch National Campaign to Re-connect Children with Nature

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 09:58:22 GMT

PSA Campaign Debut Coincides with National Get Outdoors Day

Children in the U.S. spend fifty percent less time outdoors than they did twenty years ago, according to the Institute for Social Research at the University of Michigan.

In an effort to encourage children and their parents to re-connect with nature, the U.S. Forest Service is joining the Ad Council today to launch a national multimedia public service advertising (PSA) campaign. U.S. Forest Service Chief Gail Kimbell will unveil the campaign on June 13 at Denver City Park to coincide with National Get Outdoors Day. The PSAs will be distributed to media outlets nationwide this week.

The campaign primarily aims to reach "tweens" (children aged 8-12) and their parents. The goal is to encourage children to get outside and experience nature first-hand, instilling a life-long love for nature by fostering a connection with urban and national forests.

Children spend less time outdoors due to safety concerns, an increase in the number of working parents and the development of new technologies that capture free time indoors. As a result of this limited interaction with the outdoors, many children are unaware of the benefits that nature provides, including improving their physical and mental health and emotional well-being. Research shows that children who play outside have lower stress levels and more active imaginations, become fitter and leaner, develop stronger immune systems and have greater respect for themselves and for others. Furthermore, those who spend their childhood in nature are more likely to become environmentally conscious in the future.

"People, especially kids, need a direct connection to both forests and nature for their health and personal growth-and for the future of conservation," said Chief Kimbell. "It's wonderful to expand our efforts to reach kids through this partnership. The Ad Council has been helping us accomplish the Forest Service mission for over 60 years."

Created pro bono by ad agency Euro RSCG, the campaign includes television, radio, outdoor and Web PSAs, which show the freeing aspects a nature experience can provide by depicting the various qualities -- the curious you, the creative you, the adventurous you -- that tweens can discover about themselves in nature. The TV spots depict children engaging with nature in various ways and encourage audiences to discover the forest, "where the other you lives." Additionally, the Brigham Young University Ad Lab developed two radio spots pro bono to further engage tweens in the message. All of the PSAs direct parents and children to visit a new website, www.DiscoverTheForest.org, where they can find ideas for outdoor activities, as well as educational and conservation information. Additionally, families can access a new interactive tool, powered by Nature FindT and Google Maps, where they can search for nearby forests and parks.

"According to our research, the vast majority of children have positive associations with nature and wish they could spend more time outdoors. However, there is a need for greater motivation, guidance and awareness about the many benefits of experiencing nature first-hand," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "We are proud to join with our longtime partners at the Forest Service to launch this wonderful campaign that will encourage children to spend more time outdoors in our nation's forests and parks."

The U.S. Forest Service and the Ad Council have been partnering on the Wildfire Prevention PSA campaign, featuring Smokey Bear, since 1944. The campaign is the longest running PSA campaign in U.S. history.

"We are excited to partner with the U.S. Forest Service and the Ad Council, two stellar and highly respected organizations, for a campaign that communicates the benefits of spending time outdoors to children and their parents," said Phil Silvestri, Executive Creative Director and Managing Director, Euro RSCG Tonic, part of the Euro RSCG Worldwide network. "Our agency is committed to finding ways to educate consumers about today's health issues, such as the rise in childhood obesity and juvenile-onset diabetes, and we feel it is important to stress the benefits of outdoor play to today's youth so that they lead healthy lifestyles and don't miss out on one of the basic joys of being a kid - playing outside!"

Beginning this week, an integrated social media program will extend the reach of the PSA campaign online with strategies designed to engage both parents and children. Additionally, the U.S. Forest Service and the Ad Council are engaging a series of campaign partners in the federal government and nonprofit sectors to share the messages with their groups and members.

Campaign launch activities will continue throughout the next several months. As an extension of the campaign, the U.S. Forest Service and the Ad Council will kick off a national photo and art contest in September. Children will be invited to submit a photo or other form of art, which illustrates the creative ways that they are interacting with nature to find "the other you" outdoors. The winner will receive a prize that will promote increased outdoor activity.

The new PSAs and Web sites have been researched extensively and tested with children in the target audiences. The ads are being distributed to approximately 33,000 media outlets nationwide. Per the Ad Council's model, all of the ads will air and run in advertising time and space donated by the media.

In addition to the campaign website, www.DiscoverTheForest.org, parents and children can visit www.NationalGetOutdoorsDay.org for more information on the National Get Outdoors Day events nearest to them.

U.S. Forest Service
The U.S. Forest Service (www.fs.fed.us) manages 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands for the American Public. Its mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The U.S. Forest Service is the agency responsible for overseeing the use of Smokey Bear in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and The Advertising Council.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Euro RSCG Tonic
Euro RSCG Tonic is a leading integrated marketing communications agency specializing in health and wellness brands. The agency provides advertising, marketing services, corporate communications and interactive solutions to global, regional and local clients. The agency's client roster includes GlaxoSmithKline, Schering Plough, Roche, Astellas, Stryker and Shire Pharmaceuticals.

The agency is part of Euro RSCG Worldwide, Advertising Age's and Campaign's 2006 Global Agency of the Year, which is made up of 233 offices located in 75 countries throughout Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia-Pacific and Middle East. Headquartered in New York, Euro RSCG Worldwide is the largest unit of Havas, a world leader in communications.

Contact:

U.S. Forest Service
Press Office
202-205-1134

Euro RSCG Tonic
Theresa Tepper
212-475-6303
ttepper@powellny.com

The Ad Council
Ellyn Fisher
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

Ad Council, and the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse Join ESPN to Encourage Fathers to "Take time to be a dad today"

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 09:34:17 GMT

New PSAs Feature Sports Anchors from "NFL Live" and "SportsCenter"

NEW YORK, June 1, 2009 - The Advertising Council and the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse join ESPN today to launch a new series of national public service advertisements designed to show dads the critical role they play in their children's lives. The ads will debut this week on ESPN media in advance of Father's Day.

According to the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse (NRFC), an estimated 25 million children live without their biological fathers and are on average at least two to three times more likely to be poor, to use drugs, to experience educational, health and emotional and behavioral problems, to be victims of child abuse and to engage in criminal behavior than their peers who live with their married, biological (or adoptive) parents. Children with involved, loving fathers are significantly more likely to do well in school, have healthy self-esteem, exhibit empathy and pro-social behavior and avoid high-risk behaviors.

"Given the importance of sports in the lives of so many dads and children, we are excited that ESPN is taking part in our campaign to inspire men to be the best dads they can be," said Roland C. Warren, Media Campaign Director for the NRFC. "ESPN is a credible messenger to dads and will help us encourage a new commitment to involved fatherhood this Father's Day."

The new television, radio, and Web public service advertisements, available in English and Spanish, emphasize to fathers that "the best highlights happen at home." The TV and radio ads begin airing and running this week through June 28 in donated media on ESPN properties including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNEWS, ESPN Classic, ESPN Deportes, ESPNU, ESPN Radio and ESPN.com. The online executions will be live on ESPN.com from June 1 to July 11, 2009.

"We are delighted to join ESPN and NRFC for this new series of public service ads to encourage men to take an active role in their children's lives," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "The sports talent featured in the ads are well-known and appealing to our target audience, and I believe they will help strike a chord with fathers to become more involved with their children."

Created pro bono for the Ad Council by ESPN and Wieden & Kennedy, the TV and radio ads feature ESPN anchors Trey Wingo (NFL Live) and Robert Flores (SportsCenter) as well as David Faitelson and Fernando Palomo of ESPN Deportes for the Spanish spots. The PSAs encourage fathers to visit www.fatherhood.gov for parenting tips and additional resources for fathers. To view the ads, visit www.adcouncil.org.

"ESPN's ability to reach millions of fathers allows for swift and high-impact advertising communications for this important cause," said Seth Ader, ESPN senior director sports marketing. "Our collaboration with the Ad Council has yielded a uniquely ESPN-branded PSA that we hope inspires dads to engage with their children in creating every day highlights."

National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse
The National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse (NRFC) supports the Administration for Children and Families' Office of Family Assistance's (OFA) efforts to assist States and communities to promote and support Responsible Fatherhood. Primarily a tool for professionals operating Responsible Fatherhood programs, the NRFC provides access to print and electronic publications, timely information on fatherhood issues, and targeted resources that support OFA-funded Responsible Fatherhood grantees. The NRFC Web site also provides essential information for other audiences interested in fatherhood issues. www.fatherhood.gov

ESPN, Inc.
ESPN, Inc. is the world's leading multinational, multimedia sports entertainment company featuring a portfolio of over 50 multimedia sports assets. The company is comprised of six domestic television networks (ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN Classic, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, ESPNU), ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNEWS and ESPNU HD simulcast services, ESPN Regional Television, ESPN International (45 networks, syndication, radio, web sites), ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, ESPN The Magazine, ESPN Enterprises, ESPN PPV, ESPN Zones (sports-themed restaurants), and other growing new businesses including ESPN360.com (Broadband), ESPN Mobile Properties, ESPN on Demand and ESPN Interactive. Based in Bristol, Ct., ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc., which is an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company. The Hearst Corporation holds a 20 percent interest in ESPN.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:

Beth Shanley
The Ad Council
212-984-1923
bshanley@adcouncil.org
ESPN Contact

Vincent DiCaro
National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse
240-912-1270
vdicaro@fatherhood.org

HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, Sesame Workshop and the Ad Council Launch National Campaign to Protect Families from H1N1 Virus and Stay Healthy

Fri, 22 May 2009 11:02:30 GMT
New PSA Campaign Unveiled at the HHS/Department of Education Childcare Center

Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced today that the Department of Health & Human Services is joining the Ad Council and Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization behind Sesame Street, to launch a national public service advertising campaign designed to encourage American families and children to take steps to protect themselves from the 2009 H1N1 flu virus and continue to practice healthy habits. As part of HHS and the Ad Council's campaign, Sesame Workshop produced a television PSA featuring Sesame Street's Elmo and Gordon explaining the importance of healthy habits such as washing your hands, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth and sneezing into the bend of your arm.

The campaign was unveiled this morning by HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius at the HHS/Department of Education Childcare Center in Washington, D.C. The PSAs will be distributed nationwide today and will be supported in airtime donated by television stations.

"We are doing everything we can to protect public health and teach children how they can stay healthy and safe," said Sebelius. "Elmo, Gordon, Sesame Workshop, and the Ad Council are delivering an important message to our kids."

The 2009 H1N1 flu virus is a new flu virus of swine origin that was first detected in April 2009. The virus is spreading from person-to-person, sparking a growing outbreak of illness in the U.S. and internationally. To date, over 5,700 cases have been reported in the United States and there are nine deaths associated with the novel H1N1 infection. Experts believe that the 2009 H1N1 flu spreads in the same way that seasonal influenza viruses spread - primarily through the coughs and sneezes of people who are sick with the virus.

The new PSA campaign focuses on the importance of providing parents, teachers and children with accurate information about how to practice healthy habits, highlighting proper hand-washing and simple everyday actions that lead to staying healthy and keeping germs away. Created by Sesame Workshop, the television PSAs encourage audiences to visit www.cdc.gov to get more information on how to stay healthy. The PSAs are an extension of Sesame's Healthy Habits for Life initiative, which helps young children and their caregivers establish an early foundation of healthy habits.

The PSAs are part of an initiative to provide practical steps recommended by CDC to help prevent the spread of the flu virus and other infectious disease, including:

. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
. Keep your distance from others if you are sick.
. When possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick, and don't send your children to childcare or school if they are sick.
. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing and sneezing.
. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

"Since the outbreak of the H1N1 flu, many Americans have expressed concern about how they can protect themselves from being infected," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "We are proud to continue our longstanding partnership with the Department of Health and Human Services for this critical campaign that will educate parents and children about how to stay healthy. We are also grateful to Sesame Workshop for providing their resources and talent for the PSAs."

The Ad Council will be distributing the PSAs via satellite to television stations nationwide.

"Whether you are learning to read or count, facing natural disasters, or practicing healthy habits, Sesame Workshop combines our expert research with the power of Muppets to provide children and their families with the tools they need to cope with what is going on in their communities," said Melvin Ming, Chief Operating Officer, Sesame Workshop. "As part of our Healthy Habits for Life Initiative and in partnership with HHS and Ad Council, we are servicing a PSA and supplemental materials to generate awareness on how kids and families can lead healthier lives."

The Ad Council has been partnering with the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services to develop PSA campaigns that address critical health issues since the 1950s. Their successful collaborations have included public service messages about the polio epidemic, drug abuse and, more recently, obesity prevention.

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
The Department of Health and Human Services is the United States government's principal agency for protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services, especially for those who are least able to help themselves. The department includes more than 300 programs, covering a wide spectrum of activities, including medical and social science research, preventing outbreak of infectious disease, including immunization services, assuring food and drug safety, welfare, and Medicare and Medicaid.

Sesame Workshop
Sesame Workshop is the nonprofit educational organization that changed television forever with the legendary Sesame Street. As the single largest informal educator of young children, local Sesame Street programs produced in countries as diverse as South Africa, Bangladesh and India are making a difference in over 120 nations. Using proprietary research to create engaging and enriching content, Sesame Workshop produces programs such as Dragon Tales and Pinky Dinky Doo. In addition, multimedia needs-driven initiatives provide families tools for addressing such issues as children's health, military deployment and emergency preparedness. As a nonprofit, product proceeds and philanthropic donations support Sesame Workshop's educational research and creative content for children around the world. Learn more at www.sesameworkshop.org.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:
HHS
Office of Public Health and Science
Public Affairs Office
202-205-0143

Sesame Workshop
Pam Hacker
212-875-6225
pam.hacker@sesameworkshop.org

The Ad Council
Ellyn Fisher
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

Brian Perkins Elected as Chair of the Ad Council

Thu, 21 May 2009 15:20:55 GMT
Perkins joined by seventeen new board members

New York May 21, 2009 - The Advertising Council announced today that Brian Perkins, Corporate Vice President, Johnson & Johnson, has been elected as Chair of the Board of Directors of The Advertising Council. Mr. Perkins was installed at the Ad Council's Board meeting held this afternoon in New York City.

Mr. Perkins has been a member of the Ad Council Board of Directors since 2005, most recently serving as Vice Chair. As Chair, he succeeds Susan Gianinno, Chairman and CEO, Publicis Worldwide in the USA, and will serve in this position for one year.

During Mr. Perkins' tenure on the Ad Council board he has demonstrated his commitment to the organization through his involvement with its Executive Committee as well as its Nominating and Dinner Committee. The Ad Council's Public Service Award Dinner is the organization's largest fundraising event.

"Brian has been an integral part of our Board during the past four years and we are thrilled to have him as our new Chair," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of The Advertising Council. "His expertise in the areas of branding and marketing, as well as his ongoing commitment to the Ad Council, will help us expand the reach of our campaigns."

Brian Perkins has served as Corporate Vice President of Johnson & Johnson since 2004. In his position, Brian oversees Johnson & Johnson's Global Marketing Group as well as Corporate Contributions. Perkins' career at Johnson & Johnson includes President of McNeil Consumer Products, the world's largest OTC drug company; Company Group Chairman for the worldwide OTC business and most recently, Worldwide Chairman of Consumer Pharmaceuticals & Nutritionals.

The Ad Council also elected seventeen new members to its Board of Directors. The new directors are:

. Frances Allen, Brand Marketing Officer, Dunkin' Brands
. Tim Armstrong, Chairman & CEO, AOL
. Mark Baynes, Global CMO, Kellogg Company
. Kathy Behrens, EVP, Social Responsibility & Player Programs, NBA
. Laura Desmond, CEO, Starcom MediaVest Group
. Amy Fuller, EVP, Worldwide Consumer Marketing, MasterCard Worldwide
. Jack Haber, VP, Global Advertising, Colgate-Palmolive Company
. Maureen Linder, VP Global Advertising and Design, The Campbell Soup Company
. Michael Mendenhall, SVP & CMO, Hewlett-Packard Company
. Nigel Morris, CEO, Aegis Media North America
. Steve Mosko, President, Sony Pictures Television
. Bill Pearce, SVP & CMO, Del Monte Foods
. Jon Potter, CMO, Diageo North America
. Sylvia Reynolds, CMO, Wells Fargo
. Kimberly Till, President & CEO, Harris Interactive
. Richard Wergan, VP, Worldwide Brand Marketing and Advertising, Xerox Corporation
. Dennis Woodside, VP, Americas Operations, Google, Inc.

The Ad Council
The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer talent from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public. Having produced literally thousands of PSA campaigns addressing the most pressing social issues of the day, the Ad Council has effected, and continues to effect, tremendous positive change by raising awareness, inspiring action and saving lives.

Contacts:
Beth Shanley
212-984-1923
bshanley@adcouncil.org

TSA and Ad Council Raise Awareness of "Secure Flight" Program as part of National Public Education Campaign

Thu, 21 May 2009 09:26:41 GMT
Over 195 Million Passengers Expected to Fly this Summer: Campaign Continues to Educate Travelers about Procedures at Airport Checkpoints in time for Memorial Day

New York, May 21, 2009 - To coincide with Memorial Day and the start of the summer travel season, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is continuing their partnership with the Ad Council to launch a national public awareness campaign that educates passengers about TSA's upcoming Secure Flight program, a collaborative effort with the airlines that enhances watch list matching through a phased-in approach.

"TSA is partnering with airlines and the Ad Council to educate passengers about the Secure Flight program that makes travel safer and easier for millions of Americans," said TSA Acting Administrator Gale Rossides. "Secure Flight will also help reduce the misidentification of passengers who have names similar to individuals on government watch lists, clearing more than 99 percent of passengers for travel."

Secure Flight is a phased-in partnership program between TSA and airlines in response to a key 9/11 Commission recommendation: uniform watch list matching by TSA. The mission of the Secure Flight program is to enhance the security of domestic and international commercial air travel through the use of improved watch list matching. TSA is taking over this responsibility from aircraft operators who, up until now, have been responsible for checking passengers against government watch lists. Secure Flight will further strengthen security by continuing to identify individuals that may pose a known or suspected threat to aviation.

Over the coming months when booking airline travel, travelers may be asked to provide their name as it appears on the government ID they plan to use when traveling. Later this summer, airlines will also begin asking passengers to provide their date of birth and gender. TSA's goal is for Secure Flight to be fully implemented in early 2010 for all domestic flights and the end of 2010 for all international flights.

Secure Flight is a phased in process for both TSA and the airlines - each airline will incorporate changes into their systems over the coming months as their capability to capture passenger data is integrated into their individual systems. If a passenger is not prompted to provide this additional information by a particular airline, they should not be concerned as it should not impact their travel.

"This critical campaign will continue to raise public awareness about the important role that travelers play in the airport security process, while educating them about the latest security procedures through the Secure Flight program," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "We are proud to continue this initiative with TSA, which will make it safer and easier for travelers throughout the country."

TSA's passenger feedback shows that travelers are more willing to cooperate with airport security when they better understand the reasoning behind the measures. The campaign aims to improve security by encouraging airline passengers to become better prepared for security processes, thereby resulting in a more positive experience. The campaign also builds upon TSA's ongoing commitment to communicating why certain procedures and requirements are an important part of airport security. For example, the campaign explains the new Secure Flight program, as well as why travelers are asked to remove shoes and coats, limit liquids to three ounces and show their IDs.

First launched in November 2008, campaign activities have been conducted during the nation's busiest travel times. The campaign employs a series of informational videos airing in airports and online, social media strategies, as well as national radio sponsorships and public relations tactics in an effort to communicate with the travelling public during these travel periods. All of the campaign strategies direct audiences to visit www.tsa.gov to find travel tips, local airport information, and answers to your questions about airline security.

This is the first time the Ad Council has partnered with TSA on a public education effort. Since 2003, the Ad Council has been working with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on the Ready Campaign designed to encourage all Americans to prepare for emergencies.

TSA
TSA is a component of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that was formed following the tragedies of September 11, 2001. TSA protects the nation's transportation systems to ensure freedom of movement for people and commerce. Its 45,000 transportation security officers are responsible for airport security at more than 450 U.S. airports.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:

Ellyn Fisher
The Ad Council
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

TSA Public Affairs
571-227-2829

IAVA and Ad Council Build on Success of Groundbreaking Veterans Campaign with New Friends and Family Element

Fri, 01 May 2009 11:45:58 GMT
New PSAs Engage Friends and Family of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans
NEW YORK, May 1, 2009 - To help ease the transition and readjustment challenges facing Iraq and Afghanistan veterans as they return home, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) joined the Ad Council today to launch a new series of national public service advertisements (PSAs) for their Veteran Support Campaign. Launched on Veterans Day 2008, the first series of ads reaches out to veterans directly and encourages them to visit www.CommunityOfVeterans.org, a private social network where Iraq and Afghanistan veterans can access critical resources and share their experiences in a safe forum. The new series of PSAs unveiled today similarly empowers the family and friends of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans by encouraging them to start the conversation and to help veterans transition to civilian life. The PSAs direct friends and family members to the new website, www.SupportYourVet.org, where they can engage with one another in an interactive forum and access conversation tips, critical mental health resources and information about navigating the VA. The PSAs are being distributed to media outlets nationwide this month.

Of the 1.7 million veterans who have served in Iraq or Afghanistan, nearly one third are suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression or Traumatic Brain Injury. Research shows that many veterans avoid seeking help because of the stigma associated with treatment or fear of being diagnosed with a mental illness. Those who do seek help, however, often cite their family as the catalyst for support. Yet, many families today do not know how to broach the subject constructively and struggle with ways to approach a friend or family member who has recently returned home.

Created pro bono by BBDO New York, the new PSAs launched today seek to empower those family and friends of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans by giving them the tools and resources to start the conversation. The new series centers on the concept of "welcome home" signs which convey the difficulty of approaching and engaging a friend or family member who has recently returned home. The signs highlight the careful balancing act friends and family members must often endure to engage a new veteran without pushing him or her too hard. Clear Channel's Creative Services Group, Saatchi & Saatchi and AOL donated their resources to develop additional radio, print, outdoor and Web ads.

"IAVA is thrilled to continue the momentum of the historic Veterans Support Campaign. Already, we have heard from hundreds of veterans who have taken advantage of the social network and resources offered by CommunityofVeterans.org. With these new PSAs, we are taking this campaign one step further and engaging the friends and family of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans in this critical transition process," said IAVA Executive Director Paul Rieckhoff. "IAVA is grateful to the Ad Council and BBDO for their extraordinary commitment to our country's newest generation of veterans. Together, we're turning the page on how their predecessors were treated after Vietnam."

"We are proud to continue our partnership with IAVA with this new series of PSAs that will help families and loved ones understand their critical role in supporting veterans in their transition home," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "In only a short time, this campaign has been very effective in helping to develop a much-needed community of support for these veterans, and this new work will continue to have an impact."

"A welcoming community and home life is what every veteran deserves," said Don Schneider, Executive Creative Director, BBDO New York. "Those of us at BBDO who have had the opportunity to work on this campaign are continually inspired by not only the work that the IAVA does on a regular basis, but by the soldiers and families we have had the privilege to meet during this project."

Both series of PSAs and websites have been researched extensively and tested with veterans, their families and the general market. The ads are being distributed to approximately 33,000 media outlets nationwide. Per the Ad Council's model, all of the ads will air and run in advertising time and space donated by the media. To date, the campaign has received significant support from the media and 1,500 veterans have joined the private online community. Additionally, www.CommunityOfVeterans.org has received more than 270,000 visits.

Funding for the campaign was made possible by the Iraq Afghanistan Deployment Impact Fund of the California Community Foundation.

BBDO
BBDO's mantra is "The Work. The Work. The Work." Day by day, sixteen thousand BBDO people in 287 offices in 79 countries work client by client, job by job, to create and deliver the world's most compelling commercial content. BBDO is currently Network of the Year at Cannes, the world's most awarded agency network in The Gunn Report, the most awarded global agency network across every marketing communications discipline in The Big Won Report, and Campaign Magazine's Advertising Network of the Year. Encouragingly, for the future, it is also Network of the Year in the 8th annual Young Guns Awards which recognize the work of young and emerging creatives.

IAVA
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) is the nation's first and largest nonprofit, nonpartisan group for veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Founded in 2004, IAVA has more than 125,000 active veteran members and civilian supporters in all 50 states. Its mission is to improve the lives of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and their families. For more information, visit www.iava.org.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

Contacts:
Chrissy Stevens
IAVA
212-982-9699
chrissy@iava.org

Jocelyn Weiss
BBDO New York
212-459-5393
jocelyn.weiss@bbdo.com

Ellyn Fisher
The Ad Council
212-984-1964
efisher@adcouncil.org

AHRQ and Ad Council Encourage Consumers to Ask Questions and Get More Involved in Their Health Care

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 10:16:23 GMT
Spokesperson Fran Drescher and New Multimedia PSAs from Grey Showcase Health Care Effort
A new series of national public service advertisements designed to encourage consumers to get more involved in their health care by knowing and asking appropriate questions when visiting their doctors or other clinicians was launched today by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) with The Advertising Council and actress and health advocate Fran Drescher .

The provocative and humorous new "Questions" PSAs, which were created pro bono by Grey New York, aim to encourage all patients to become more involved in their own health care by asking questions of their doctors or other clinicians. The ads feature people asking questions in everyday situations such as ordering food at a restaurant and buying a cell phone, but clamming up when their doctor asks if they have questions. The television, radio, print, outdoor and Web ads direct audiences to visit a comprehensive Web site, http://www.ahrq.gov/questionsaretheanswer, to learn the 10 questions every patient should think about asking when visiting their doctor or other clinician.

"Asking your doctor or other clinician questions about why you need a particular medical test, the potential side effects and the benefits and risks of those procedures will help you make appropriate medical decisions," said AHRQ Director Carolyn M. Clancy, M.D. "We know that patients who ask questions receive better quality health care and get better results. This campaign continues AHRQ's ongoing efforts to improve the safety and quality of health care for all Americans."

According to a survey conducted by AHRQ and the Kaiser Family Foundation, 57 percent of Americans do not believe that preventable medical errors occur often. However, an estimated 1.5 million medication errors happen every year in hospitals, doctors' offices, nursing homes and pharmacies, according to the Institute of Medicine.

Actress and leading health advocate Fran Drescher is working with AHRQ and the Ad Council to encourage patients to ask questions. "Asking questions is an important part of getting the health care you need and can even lead to early detection of disease," said Ms. Drescher, who is a uterine cancer survivor. "I am an 8-year cancer survivor because I spoke up and continued to ask questions of my doctors, which led to my diagnosis."

The new PSAs are an extension of the Ad Council and AHRQ's Patient Involvement PSA campaign that first launched in March 2007. The campaign is one of a series of campaigns that AHRQ has worked on with the Ad Council to improve health care. Other AHRQ public education campaigns encourage men to get appropriate preventive care screenings and encourage Hispanics to take care of themselves by visiting a doctor to get preventive tests.

"We are proud to continue our work with AHRQ to shed light on the critical role that Americans can play in improving their own health care by asking questions," said Peggy Conlon, President & CEO of the Ad Council. "These ads are entertaining and we think viewers will recognize themselves-most of us are comfortable asking questions in everyday life, but not in a doctor's office. With these new PSAs, we will make patients and doctors more aware of the need to engage in a meaningful dialogue," she said.

The Web site, http://www.ahrq.gov/questionsaretheanswer/, features tips for patients to become more involved in their health care, including a list of 10 questions everyone should know when they visit their doctor or other clinician. The Web site also features a "Question Builder" that allows patients to develop a customized list of the questions they can take to their medical appointments.

"This campaign is based on a true and simple insight: we're extremely comfortable asking questions everywhere we go in life, yet somehow at the doctor's office, we clam up. Something is seriously wrong with that," said Rob Baiocco, EVP/Executive Creative Director of Grey New York. "Let's remind people their health is more important than their cell phone or their food order, and encourage them to ask more questions at the doctor."

AHRQ funds a variety of projects to improve the safety of health care through health information technology, teamwork among health care providers and more. AHRQ has also worked with the American Medical Association and the American Hospital Association to launch a campaign called 5 Steps to Safer Health Care and has published materials in English and Spanish to help consumers receive high-quality health care. AHRQ also produces the annual National Healthcare Quality Report and National Healthcare Disparities Report as mandated by the U.S. Congress.

The PSAs are being distributed to 33,000 media stations nationwide this week. Per the Ad Council's donated media model, all of the new PSAs will air and run in advertising time and space donated by the media.

AHRQ
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (www.ahrq.gov) is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. AHRQ's mission is to improve the quality, safety, efficiency and effectiveness of health care for all Americans. AHRQ's research helps people make more informed decisions and improve the quality of health care.

Grey New York
Grey New York is the flagship and largest office of Grey, the advertising network of Grey Group www.grey.com. Grey Group ranks among the largest global communications companies. Its parent company is WPP (NASDAQ : WPPGY). Grey New York's blue-chip client roster includes many of the world's best known companies: Procter & Gamble, GlaxoSmithKline, Diageo, Darden Restaurants, Wyeth, Canon, 3M, Eli Lilly, E*Trade and J.M. Smucker.

The Advertising Council
The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies.

Contacts:
AHRQ Public Affairs
(301) 427-1246
(301) 427-1865

The Ad Council
(212) 984-1964

Grey New York
(212) 546-2231

Ready Classroom Teaches Emergency Preparedness Nationwide

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 13:25:59 GMT
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Ad Council have joined with Discovery Education to announce Ready Classroom, an online educational program.

Ready Classroom will provide elementary and middle school teachers with resources to integrate natural disaster preparedness information into their curriculum. The program is an extension of Ready Kids, a nationwide effort designed to encourage children and families to take action and prepare for emergencies.

The online resource, www.discoveryeducation.com/readyclassroom, provides teachers with activities, lesson plans and multimedia tools that teach students how natural disasters develop and inspires them to build their own emergency preparedness plans with their families. The site features grade-specific lesson plans (K-8), videos, games, puzzles and bulletin board recommendations.

"Engaging with children on the topic of emergency preparedness in conjunction with the science curriculum taught in schools is an effective way to bring home the preparedness message." said Corey Gruber, Acting Deputy Administrator of FEMA's National Preparedness Directorate. "This program with Discovery Education will empower children and families to take the important steps necessary to minimize the impact of a disaster and, ultimately, continue our efforts to encourage a culture of preparedness."

To coincide with the launch of the site, Discovery Education is promoting this new resource online at www.discoveryeducation.com and to elementary and middle school educators nationwide through its professional learning community, the Discovery Educator Network.

"This is a wonderful extension of Ready Kids that will educate teachers, students and families about possible emergencies that may affect their schools and communities," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of the Ad Council. "Through these interactive tools teachers will help motivate their students to take the steps necessary to be prepared."

Ready Kids is an extension of the Ready Campaign, which engages Americans in taking three simple steps to be prepared for emergencies: (1) Get an emergency supply kit; (2) Make a family emergency plan; and (3) Be informed about the types of emergencies that can happen in your area and their appropriate responses.

"Discovery Education is pleased to partner with the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Ad Council to bring this important information into America's classrooms," said Mary Rollins, Discovery Education Vice President of Education Partnerships. "By educating children about the science behind natural disasters through high-quality digital content, Ready Kids helps educators better engage students on emergency preparedness issues."

By following simple preparedness steps in advance, Americans can reduce the impact of emergencies on themselves, their family and their businesses. Individuals can visit www.ready.gov or call 1-800-BE-READY, to access free materials that will help them prepare their families.

February 2009 marked the Ready Campaign's sixth year at the Department of Homeland Security. The campaign is now managed under the Department's Federal Emergency Management Agency. Launched in 2003 in partnership with The Advertising Council, Ready is designed to educate and empower Americans to prepare for and respond to emergencies, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks. It has proven to be one of the most successful campaigns in Ad Council's more than 66-year history.

Since its launch, the Ready Campaign has generated more than $756.5 million in donated media support. Individuals interested in more information about family, business and community preparedness can visit www.ready.gov.

FEMA leads and supports the nation in a risk-based, comprehensive emergency management system of preparedness, protection, response, recovery, and mitigation, to reduce the loss of life and property and protect the nation from all hazards including natural disasters, acts of terrorism and other man-made disasters.