AAF Midlands was recognized in two categories at the 2021 National Club Achievement awards competition. They were presented virtually during ADMERICA 2021, AAF’s national conference held earlier this summer.
The AAF Club Achievement Competition recognizes local advertising clubs for their accomplishments in Club Operations, Cornerstone Initiatives & Events, Membership Development & Communications, Programs, and Public Service. The competition was established to honor the significant contributions of the AAF network of professional advertising clubs and to encourage excellence in areas of club operations that contribute to the strength of AAF member clubs.
AAF Midlands received a 2nd Place award in both Membership Development & Communications and Programs categories. This was a satisfying win for all, considering the challenges that 2020 presented. They were one of 16 clubs across the country recognized this year.
At the beginning of the year, AAF Midlands went through a brand refresh, stating that it was important to focus on diversity and inclusion. “The AAF Midlands rebrand is not just a refreshed message or look, but honestly the board’s commitment to excellence in a year of tribulation,” said Jeff Lawler, AAF Midlands Board Chair. “Our team was carefully selected considering all levels of diversity and inclusion. From culture to industry, to age and gender, our board is a true testament to working together to make our organization stronger for years to come. We wanted the organization’s brand to reflect that as well.”
This statement was reflected both in our communications efforts and programming efforts, as we hosted an Inclusion in Advertising panel with local advertisers as well as welcoming Kimfer Flanery-Rye of Seattle, WA to discuss DEI work and its impact on brand strategy.
AAF Midlands was also recognized as Quality Club of The Year, for the third year in a row, by District 3. The purpose of this program is to recognize and reward clubs that participate in club achievement, while excelling in areas of club management deemed crucial to being a quality club. Clubs that strive to meet the criteria will find they are doing the things necessary for their organization to grow and thrive.