With its mandate to lead Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) awareness, education, therapy and advocacy throughout the country, Autism South Africa itself has “special needs” when it comes to finding agencies to undertake its advertising and communication.
Says Claudia Ceresa, research developer and finance manager at Autism SA: “We were very green when we first met with the Independent Agency Search and Selection Company (IAS), and were pleased at the way we were guided through the process by CEO Johanna McDowell and her team.” Ceresa adds that there are not many agencies that will take on pro-bono work, and that the organisation was thrilled to have the IAS and agencies that would.
With Autism SA’s ideal scenario being full-service agency and PR support, it sought to be paired with a partner or partners that would cover the media interviews, advertising and marketing around World Autism Awareness Day, brand management, press releases and placement, as well as social media activities and guidance.
“The IAS understands the needs of both parties,” says McDowell. “In our effort to find a perfect fit between client and agency the IAS conducts Chemistry Sessions to achieve the fit and create an atmosphere of innovation and trust.”
Ceresa says House of Brave was appointed as the creative agency for creative work and the World Autism Awareness Campaign; Wetpaint for PR and social media; and Mediacom for placements. “The selection process exceeded our expectation, and the first year was amazing, with millions of Rand’s worth of advertising and coverage in all media.
“The work done by the IAS was enlightening, and helped Autism SA to understand more about what we require.”
Autism SA is going out to pitch again for the PR portfolio, with the IAS undertaking to run the project pro bono. “We’d urge any agencies wishing to make a difference to Autism Spectrum Disorder to pitch for this PR account, noting that all pro bono work counts towards B-BBEE points as well as tax savings,” says McDowell.
