Out of The Square (OOTS) has been officially shortlisted for the 2024 Cairns Crocodiles Awards in the Changing the World category.
This nomination celebrates OOTS’ strategic and creative efforts in The Big Ask campaign, an initiative they developed for the Newcastle-based charity, Soul Hub.
The Cairns Crocodiles Awards are a cornerstone of the Cannes in Cairns festival, recognising creativity and effectiveness in advertising across national and international platforms.
OOTS stands out as the only regional agency nominated in this category, highlighting its unique approach to community-driven initiatives (such as Region Ready, Everyone has a Story and Sculptures at Scratchley).
The Big Ask was developed to support Soul Hub’s goal to raise $1.8 million over 9 months, facilitating their relocation to a new, purpose-built facility.
This campaign was not only about meeting a financial target, but also fostering a deeper sense of community, growing Soul Hub’s donor base, and expanding essential services to Newcastle’s most vulnerable.
CEO of Soul Hub, Rick Prosser said the campaign made a profound impact.
“This campaign brought our community together in unprecedented ways. The engagement and generosity that poured in has been nothing short of transformative for our operations and the lives we touch daily,” Rick said.
Founder of OOTS, Marty Adnum said initiatives like these are a great opportunity to work close to the heart and give back to the community.
“We’re passionate about our community and driven to create campaigns that not only look good but do good,” he said.
“Donating our services to help achieve this big ask was truly rewarding and now being nominated for such a coveted award is a real testament to the team’s hard work and heart work.”
Strategist at OOTS, Jennifer Young shared their insights on the campaign’s strategy and creative approach – unveiling the makings of shortlisted award campaign.
“We saw an opportunity to tap into the collective spirit of Newcastle with a straightforward and resonant message. The results speak for themselves, not just in dollars raised but, in the community, spirit ignited,” Jennifer said.
Being a not-for-profit budget was limited. The campaign relied heavily on donated services and community empowerment to help spread the word. Featuring a suite of downloadable digital assets to facilitate a grassroots effort.
Soul Hub not only reached but exceeded its fundraising goal, securing $1.9 million and enhancing its capacity to serve the community comprehensively, including medical, dental, and legal services.
The new facility opened its doors on 11 December 2023, just in time for the holiday season, marking an exciting new chapter for Soul Hub and those it serves.
The winners of the Cairns Crocodiles Awards will be announced on 6 June 2024.
IMAGE | Out Of The Square campaign team: Ben Ogden, Mike Smethurst, Jennifer Young and Jamie Lewis (left-right)
