NYAD Swim For Relief: A Bold Fundraising Event

The Challenge

Just over a month after her record-breaking swim from Cuba to Florida, Diana Nyad partnered with P&G to launch an ambitious fundraising event: a 48-hour continuous swim in the heart of New York City to support Hurricane Sandy victims. With only five weeks to prepare, the challenge was to create a high-impact event that would capture national attention, engage audiences, and drive donations.

The Approach

To maximize visibility and engagement, we executed a multi-channel, high-energy campaign, featuring:

  • Event Strategy & Execution: Designed and produced a larger-than-life, immersive experience in Herald Square.

  • Social Content Strategy & Creation: Operated a real-time social media newsroom, amplifying content across platforms.

  • Newsroom Creation: Coordinated live updates, media coverage, and audience interaction to sustain momentum.

  • Celebrity & Influencer Strategy: Curated star-studded swim-alongs, comedic hosts, and inspirational performances to keep the public engaged.

The Outcome

  • Generated over 2 billion media and social impressions, amplifying awareness far beyond the physical event.

  • Raised over $100,000 for AmeriCares’ Hurricane Sandy recovery projects.

  • Delivered a powerful, culturally resonant event, reinforcing Diana Nyad’s legacy and P&G’s commitment to social impact.

Key Contributions

  • Helped lead the event execution with integrated team, ensuring a seamless, high-impact experience.

  • Developed and implemented the social content and newsroom strategy, maximizing real-time engagement.

  • Designed the influencer and celebrity engagement content plan, enhancing the event’s entertainment and media value.

Through bold strategy, rapid execution, and high-profile engagement, NYAD Swim for Relief became a standout philanthropic activation, demonstrating the power of immersive storytelling and live audience connection.