You’ve probably seen the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge all over social media and TV. Perhaps you’ve taken it. For me, it had special meaning and a very personal connection. My older brother Martin, a natural athlete, prolific writer, creative thinker, baseball aficionado—and the bravest person I’ve ever known—lost a courageous battle to ALS. So, while I generally shy away from fads, I happily took the challenge and donated money to ALS as well.
By all measures, the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has been a huge success! While some may criticize it as a gimmick, I think it has much merit. It’s dramatically raised awareness of this dreadful, incurable disease, raised millions in funds for research (as of this morning 15.6 million up from 1.8 for the same time last year) and it gave people a fun and meaningful activity in a summer that’s been filled with wars, droughts, killings and plane crashes!
No doubt, we’ll be seeing more creative social media campaigns to raise awareness for other dreadful diseases and causes. Promotional products, our industry’s medium, and one that is so great in delivering and reinforcing a message, can play a role in these campaigns. So, here’s to more creative campaigns that can bring positive changes to the world!
What’s your opinion? I’d enjoy hearing from you, please post your thoughts below.
Rosalie Marcus, The Promo Biz Coach is a promotional products business expert, coach and speaker. Combining her skills and years of experience in promotional sales, she helps her clients sell more at higher profit margins and dramatically increase their incomes! Get a FREE special report: 10 Big Mistakes Promotional Professionals Make and How to Avoid Them and a FREE Skyrocket Your Sales audio download at www.promobizcoach.com. Reach her at [email protected] or 215-572-6766.
