FEBRUARY 2024

Eighty years ago, Smokey Bear made his debut in his iconic ranger hat, becoming a beloved symbol of wildfire prevention and environmental awareness. To kick off a year of celebration, we launched new creative that takes viewers on a journey through Smokey's impact and influence. We also expanded our partnership with WWE to promote acceptance and inclusion, launched new creative for our “Seize the Awkward” campaign featuring video game characters from Final Fantasy VII, and more!

New Creative Featuring Actor Brian Tyree Henry Kicks Off Smokey’s 80th Birthday Year

To celebrate eight decades of Smokey Bear’s “Wildfire Prevention” campaign, we partnered with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters for a special tribute. Voiced by Emmy award-winning actor Brian Tyree Henry, our new creative honors Smokey’s iconic legacy—taking audiences on a journey through time, highlighting several of his timeless teachings. Developed pro bono by FCB, the creative agency behind Smokey since his premiere, this creative marks the first of many exciting initiatives and partnerships we’ll focus on this year as we celebrate Smokey Bear’s impact on American culture. Watch the creative today!

Final Fantasy VII Adventurers Address Mental Health in New Creative for Young Adults

In times of need, 76% of young adults turn to their peers for support—reinforcing the role of peer connections in navigating mental health challenges. The "Seize the Awkward" campaign, created in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and The Jed Foundation, collaborated with the makers of Final Fantasy VIII  to develop new creative featuring iconic characters from the game. In the video, characters like Cloud and Aerith emphasize the value of checking in on friends and their mental health journey. Check out the creative and learn more about how we’re partnering to address mental health among young adults.

“Love Has No Labels” Becomes WWE’s First Official Heritage Month Partner

Our partners at WWE recently announced an expanded partnership with our award-winning “Love Has No Labels” campaign, making us WWE’s first official heritage month partner. Beginning on Black History Month, our year-long partnership will amplify the history, traditions and experiences of people across cultures, race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age and disability. In new creative, featuring WWE Superstars Bianca Belair, Becky Lynch, Damian Priest, Sonya Deville and Cody Rhodes, the wrestlers share personal messages of acceptance and inclusivity while highlighting historical figures who paved the way. Get inspired—watch the new creative!

New Mental Health Creative Empowers Rural Voices

In partnership with the Huntsman Mental Health Institute and the American Farm Bureau Federation, we are excited to share a series of creative from our “Love, Your Mind” campaign—taking a closer look at the unique challenges adults in rural areas throughout the country face. Directed by Deborah Riley Draper, the videos follow the journey of individuals in rural communities as they offer inspiration for those experiencing mental health challenges. Together with our partners, we're developing a culture of understanding and empathy for the nearly 70 million adults across the country seeking mental health support. Hear from rural voices, check out the latest creative today

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