Impact
Reaching Distinct Audiences with Tailored Mental Health Campaigns
In November 2022, the Ad Council unified new and existing mental-health-focused campaigns under a cohesive Mental Health Initiative with the goal of creating a society that is more open and proactive when it comes to mental health. Now, for this May’s Mental Health Awareness Month, we are exploring the ways in which the campaigns that make up this initiative have utilized distinct tactics and messaging to get mental health resources to the communities who need them, while working in tandem to address the issue holistically.
May 15, 2025
Supporting Veterans: The Impact of the "Don't Wait. Reach Out." Campaign on Suicide Prevention
Veterans, whether they recently transitioned to civilian life or have been out of the military for years, face unique challenges that can impact their well-being. This is why Veteran suicide prevention is a key focus area within the Ad Council’s Mental Health Initiative.
April 28, 2025
“Agree to Disagree” Ends a Conversation on Gun Violence. “Agree to Agree” Starts One.
One year ago, we announced the launch of the Ad Council’s Gun Violence Prevention Initiative—an expansion of our long-time commitment to address this health crisis. This multi-faceted effort was designed to support the life-saving work already happening across this space. We knew then what remains true today: no one organization or individual can address this crisis alone.
April 2, 2025
Cannes Lions 2024: A Week of Inspiration, Learning and Connections
My first experience at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity was nothing short of transformative. Imagine the energy of a music festival combined with the intellectual stimulation of an academic conference, all set against the backdrop of the stunning French Riviera. Major agencies, brands, tech and social media companies build pop-up activations along the beach—creating an atmosphere buzzing with creativity and innovation.
June 24, 2024
How the Creator Economy is Driving Social Impact
Last June, in partnership with Whalar, the Ad Council’s Creators for Good team–our premier in-house talent engagement arm–launched an Ambassador Pilot Program to foster deeper connection with multi-hyphenate content creators passionate about social impact.
May 9, 2024
Gun Violence Is Now a Public Health Crisis
At the Ad Council, we always say we can’t possibly pick a favorite campaign—just like we can’t pick a favorite child. But sometimes an issue just gets inside you. You see that statistic, you see that headline, and your reaction isn’t just intellectual. It’s not even just emotional. It’s visceral. You feel it twisting in your gut. And as a mother, you feel it in your heart.
March 19, 2024
The Impact of Trusted Messengers on Marketing Strategies
In a post-COVID world, the creator economy is a reinvigorated space. Traditionally, messaging around sensitive topics like mental health, public health and gun safety were shared out by health organizations, government agencies or other trusted institutions. Today, influencers play a vital role in sharing important messages and driving meaningful change—reshaping how marketers partner with trusted messengers to address key social issues. Now more than ever, nano to celebrity influencers play a pivotal role in shaping online conversations and creating impact.
March 13, 2024
The Magic of Leading with Purpose: A HOW Conversation about Leadership with Lisa Sherman and Dov Seidman
We are in a time where unprecedented forces are reshaping our world faster than we can adapt our institutions, leadership and even ourselves. In recent years, we have faced challenges on all sides—a global pandemic causing suffering, death and economic destabilization; a reimagined workplace; technological advances that challenge human dignity and autonomy; a war in Ukraine and Israel that has shaken international alliances; and the rise of autocratic leaders across the globe.
February 5, 2024
Stories from Detroit: How JPMorgan Chase Showcased a City’s Remarkable Comeback
“Detroit’s story is one of the greatest comebacks of all time,” says Jamie Dimon, Chairman and CEO of JPMorgan Chase. “Having served the city for more than 90 years, especially after it filed the largest municipal bankruptcy in U.S. history, we’re proud to share the successes and stories of Detroiters who helped make it happen.”
December 4, 2023
Centering Women Veterans in ‘Don’t Wait. Reach Out.’ Campaign
Veterans, whether they've recently left the military or served decades ago, have unique experiences and needs as they adjust to civilian life. They may struggle with challenges related to their service or face common stressors like physical or mental health challenges.
November 20, 2023