December 02, 2022
Promotions Planner: Educate & Appreciate
Start presenting ideas to clients for campaigns centered on March observances.
The month of March is chock-full of observances that serve to educate on pressing issues and show appreciation to people, animals and places, such as hard-working employees, endangered manatees and parks with maintained trails for enjoyment. Branded products can help to promote the celebrations and serve as commemorative items for participants.
March 2 to 6/Read Across America Week
Each year, the National Education Association (NEA) hosts Read Across America Week beginning on March 2, the birthday of Dr. Seuss. The NEA encourages schools, libraries and other educational centers to promote reading by recommending books to students and holding read-alouds. Clients can host events just on March 2 – Read Across America Day – or have multiple events during the week.
PITCH: Bookmarks are an easy and affordable giveaway for event attendees. In addition, consider tote bags for library hauls, and reading lights as raffle items.
LED book light (XK118) from Koala Gift (asi/72022)
March 3/National Employee Appreciation Day
Held the first Friday in March, National Employee Appreciation Day – which celebrates 28 years in 2023 – recognizes the many contributions that staff members make to the successful functioning of a company. It’s an ideal observance for any company with employees to recognize good work with gifts.
PITCH: Think useful desk items or food gifts with a thank-you message – those that can be shared with their family and friends are sure to be appreciated.
S’mores and cocoa gift bag (101529) from Gemline (asi/56070)
March 23/National Puppy Day
Help shelters, adoption agencies and veterinarians celebrate the 17th annual National Puppy Day, which aims to bring awareness to the many puppies available for adoption across the country as well as the nefarious practices at puppy mills. It’s an opportunity for canine organizations to educate the public as well as push for more adoptions.
PITCH: Think soft T-shirts for staff and volunteers, and special-edition collars to gift to people who adopt this day.
Sublimated pet collar (DCDS58X) from imprintID (asi/73651)
March 29/Manatee Appreciation Day
The last Wednesday of March is set aside by Florida-based Save the Manatee to foster appreciation of the large mammals affectionately known as “sea cows” that live along tropical coasts. Sadly, they’re often victims of collisions with watercraft, as well as habitat disruption and ocean pollution. Aquariums and schools are ideal places for educational sessions.
PITCH: Plush toys are suitable for sale in aquarium shops; smaller items like pins and housewares are easy to give away to a large group.
Manatee-shaped tea infuser (TEA009) from Admanline (asi/31978)
March 30/National Take a Walk in the Park Day
Local, state and national parks can encourage people to visit this day. Suggest signage in the days preceding the observance, apparel for park staff, and functional hiking items that can be given away to visitors.
PITCH: Consider banners and feather flags to promote the day to potential visitors, along with performance apparel for staff and outdoors accessories for those who spend time at the park this day.
Ripstop polyester daypack (BG304) from Starline USA (asi/89320)