american Advertising Federation
The American Advertising Federation (AAF) is the only national association representing all segments of the advertising industry. Members of AAF Black Hills, are automatically affiliated with this national organization, which to date represents more than 50,000 advertising professionals, 215 local advertising federations and 200 college chapters.
AAF works with its member federations to achieve industry objectives of effective advertising education, public service, government relations and recognition of achievements in creative work, account service and agency growth. To the Black Hills chapter and its members, AAF provides the umbrella of a large federation with the accompanying array of services, training programs and expanding community of advertising and media professionals.
The marketing and advertising industry is an integral part of the economic growth of the thriving Rapid City and Black Hills area. AAF-Black Hills exists to bring together the community of marketing professionals, future professionals and creative talent for growth in the industry, collaborating to inspire excellence in the work, and educate and mentor future leaders. We aspire to keep our members up-to-date with the latest marketing trends and best practices to best serve the businesses and organizations in our community.
AAF-Black Hills was started in Rapid City in 1981 by the late Tom Franklin with a very similar vision. Over the years the club has been led by many talented professionals who carry the same values and mission for the advertising industry. Our current Board of Directors is creative group of professionals who volunteer their time and talent to keep the foundation of the group strong, and the growth of the club even stronger. We love to have fun and stay active in the community.
Mission Statement: AAF Black Hills exists to accelerate the success of the Black Hills advertising community by acting as a catalyst for idea exchange and creative energy. We provide education, resources and support to the community; recognize advertising excellence; develop future leaders; and promote the value that advertising brings to the well being of our community.
recent awards
2020-2021
American Advertising Awards | Incentive Program Winner:
Growth in the local chapter American Advertising Awards competition. Competing with hundreds of other clubs across the US, AAF Black Hills was one of seven chapters to receive this award.
National Club Achievement Competition | Division IV Winner:
The National Club Achievement Competition is designed to recognize outstanding accomplishments of its affiliated advertising clubs and to showcase the programs and projects that these clubs undertake each year. Submitting reports in three of five categories available, AAF Black Hills placed first in two categories: club operations and programs.
2018-2019
AAF-Black Hills won not just one, but two prestigious awards; one from the district level and one from the national level. These awards gave us the opportunity to send two of our leadership members to participate in the National Convention in Florida, and one person to the Central Region conference in Indiana. Our club was honored to receive these awards and have brought back very valuable knowledge, resources and relationships for our future club leadership and growth.
2018-2019 National Award: Growth in the American Advertising Awards. The award was for our local competition and overall club participation. Competing with clubs from across the United States, AAF-Black Hills was one of five clubs who received the 2018-2019 award.
2018-2019 District Award: AAF-Black Hills also received the 2018-2019 Club Challenge award from the 8th District of the American Advertising Federation. The 8th District is made up of AAF advertising clubs throughout Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. The Club Challenge award is based on club participation, volunteering at D8 events, club achievements, growth in ADDY awards and growth in club membership.