(CelebrityAccess MediaWire) —
Clear Channel Communications' total donations in support of The Advertising Council's public service advertising (PSA) campaigns approached $160 million in 2004. This represents an increase of more than 30% above the company's up-front commitment last year, which was the largest contribution of advertising time and space from a media company in the organization's 63-year history. Clear Channel has pledged a similar level of support this year, extending its cross-platform PSA partnership with the Ad Council and marking a second year of record donations.
"As one of the Ad Council's premier media partners, Clear Channel has set an example for the radio, outdoor and television industries in terms of planning support, and running campaigns that are important and relevant to their audiences," said Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of The Advertising Council. "The company's ongoing commitment to our organization and our messages are an indication of how Clear Channel values its relationship with its audiences and embraces public service."
Since its founding in 1942, the Ad Council has been the largest producer of PSAs in the country, with campaigns addressing significant social issues ranging from Obesity Prevention to Hurricane Relief to Adoption.
Mark Mays, chief executive officer of Clear Channel Communications, commented, "Providing resources to extend the reach of the important messages communicated through the Ad Council's PSAs is a social obligation that Clear Channel embraces and an example of how the company's local business model works to support communities. We are proud to be furthering our collaborative public service efforts with the Ad Council and hope to motivate Americans to take action." –Jane Cohen and Bob Grossweiner
