DDB pushes it forward

During the holiday season, so many of our offices and our people open their hearts (and their wallets) to help those less fortunate than us. It is always gratifying to hear of our toy drives for needy children, the food and clothing drives and all the other good things being done across the network.

They remind me that generosity has always been a trait of DDB people.

This year, one particular story of generosity stood out for me and I'd like to share it with you.

Like many of our offices in this difficult year, DDB Mexico has cancelled their traditional holiday party. The tradition at DDB Mexico has been to take all the employees on a three-day trip to a resort at Christmas time. DDB Mexico is not a bad place to work!

This year, however, all the money that would have been spent on the party is not going to the bottom line. It is going to the family of Mr. Rigoberto Cesario Gonzales, "Don Rigo" to everyone at DDB Mexico, where he worked in the administration department for over 20 years.

In early November, Don Rigo was killed in as freak accident as he was simply crossing the street in center of Mexico City. A small plane that was carrying the Mexican Interior Minister encountered severe turbulence as it approached the airport and crashed into rush hour traffic. Don Rigo was a victim of the crash.

I'm sure that DDB Mexico President Raul Cardos feels it is the least he could do for Don Rigo's family. He took this action quietly, without fanfare, so I'm sure he won't be happy with me sharing it will all of you.

But I thought it said something special about the people of DDB Mexico and what Christmas means to them this year.

Finally, I'd like to wish each of you Happy Holidays, whichever holidays you happen to be celebrating this time of year!

A thought from Bob Scarpelli - Chairman, Chief Creative Officer