When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, New Zealand’s hospitality industry faced unprecedented challenges, leaving many workers without income and struggling to support themselves and their families. These Guys I Know were approached by a group of private donors led by Blair Duncan of Red+White Cellars and Travis Field of Fantail & Turtle who wanted to channel their funds towards those in the hospitality industry needing support.

 

The initiative required an immediate and accessible way to distribute funds to those most affected, including workers with dependents. It also needed a strategy to raise awareness of the industry’s struggles and foster community support while instilling a sense of hope among hospitality workers during uncertain times. We needed to ensure those who would benefit from Help for Hospo were aware of it. These Guys I Know wrapped the generous intention of donors in a high-impact brand identity - alongside a strategic communications plan, stakeholder engagement, pr plan, risk management advisory (turns out it’s not as easy as it sounds to hand out money to strangers!), and a digital platform through which applications could be received and funds distributed effectively.  Help for Hospo distributed more than $100,000 in donations to hospitality workers and built positive morale within the industry.  These Guys I Know delivered Help for Hospo as part of our 1000 Hours initiative, delivering our services pro bono. 

 

Themes : Hospitality, Funding, Not for Profit, Communications, Brand

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