John Rex Endowment
The John Rex Endowment invests in the development of activities, programs and organizations that improve the health of underserved people in Wake and surrounding counties. The endowment supports visible and measurable improvements in the health of youth by improving access to health services, promoting healthy behaviors and providing opportunities for growth and development. Annually, the endowment honors individuals whose innovative work helps underserved children in Wake County.
Assignment
Articulon’s assignment was three-fold:
- Develop messaging and a revitalized umbrella theme for the 4th annual event that would sustain interest.
- Create a collateral package to include invitations, event programs, signage and decorations using the newly updated brand and theme.
- Execute a turnkey special event including a multimedia effort, as well as a break out session immediately following the award ceremony.
Target Audience: Nonprofit thought leaders/program administrators, nonprofit board members, child advocacy leaders, business leaders and doctors in Wake County.
Program elements
- Developed and executed an invite-only breakfast event and workshop on October 23 at the Marbles Kids Museum. More than 130 guests arrived, meeting the expected attendance
- Created a “Stand Up! Stand Out!” theme and incorporated it through all collateral materials. A unique size and packaging was addressed in each piece
- Integrated local stories from previous Hands of Health Award winners into the event program and wall signage to play off the them
- Partnered with Action for Children NC in the development of a workshop that discussed the 2007 Wake County Children’s Health Report and issues many child advocates are currently facing
- Reinforced the brand message by repurposing collateral materials for the Endowment’s website and newsletter
Results
The Hands of Health Award breakfast generated buzz and excitement among attendees.
The success of the workshop following the breakfast led to the planning of follow-up workshops in 2008.
Due to the fact that the event was invitation only, pre-event PR efforts were not necessary. However, post-event follow up generated more than 300,000 impressions and more than $25,000 in public relations value.
The message focused on the winners and multiple$10,000 contributions to local nonprofits. Media highlights:
- Cover story for Boom! Magazine highlighting John Rex Endowment President and CEO Kevin Cain
- News & Observer
- Women’s Edge Magazine
- Carolina Woman
- Metro Magazine










