Assisting Moda and the Blazers
Like many Portlanders, Scott Gallagher and Andrew Thompson are Trail Blazers fans. This works out well for Andrew and Scott, who lead Gard Communications’ work with Moda Health, the title sponsor for the Blazers.
Moda’s goal of building healthier communities is a perfect fit with the Blazers, and Scott and Andrew worked with both organizations, and some of the NBA’s biggest stars, to promote joint programs throughout Oregon.
The Moda Assist program provides funds every year to build an all-abilities playground for one community in Oregon. For every assist the Blazers make during regular season games, Moda and the Blazers each donate $10 to the project. Moda and the Blazers select three communities based on need, geography and opportunity, and then voters choose the winner.
To promote more voting, Gard set up a KGW interview with Moda Assist ambassador, Damian Lillard, alongside Moda Health’s president, Dr. William Johnson, to explain the value of providing more spaces where all kids can be active outdoors. This year, Baker City was the winner, receiving more than $30,000 for an all-abilities playground.
It doesn’t end there. CJ McCollum is the face of Moda’s Health Months, leading off the court by promoting healthy living. Gard worked with CJ on a TV interview about the Plum Tasty food stall at the Moda Center for nutrition month. He got on camera with Plum Tasty chef Jessica Helms to demonstrate how easy it is to eat healthy while watching a Blazers game.
“It’s always fun to work behind the scenes with stars like Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, particularly on projects that clearly benefit the community,” said Andrew Thompson, account manager at Gard Communications. “They have good reputations, but I was still surprised by how engaged, kind and funny they both are.”
