#Knoxville #United States #Merit Awards #Orange Orchard #The Orangutan Project

Orange Orchard Wins Gold Award at 2025 Merit Awards

In a significant recognition of its impactful work, Orange Orchard, a globally recognized public relations agency with a core focus on animal welfare, has earned the gold award for the best Public Service Campaign for a Small Agency at the prestigious 2025 Merit Awards. This accolade comes as a celebration of their dedicated partnership with The Orangutan Project (TOP), an esteemed non-profit organization devoted to protecting orangutans and their natural habitats.

A Momentous Achievement

On April 10, 2025, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Orange Orchard announced their remarkable achievement, highlighting the agency's commitment to enhancing awareness for animal welfare. Founded in 1998, The Orangutan Project has been making strides in conservation efforts, and since partnering with Orange Orchard in 2019, their reach into North America has significantly expanded.

Heather Ripley, the founder and CEO of Orange Orchard, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to work with such a dedicated organization. “Collaborating with The Orangutan Project and amplifying their message is already fulfilling,” she stated, emphasizing the core mission of Orange Orchard: raising awareness for animal conservation globally. Receiving this recognition not only validates their commitment but also inspires further efforts in advocating for animal welfare.

Successful Initiatives and Results

The collaboration between the two organizations has led to a robust increase in TOP's media presence across North America. With Orange Orchard's expertise in public relations, TOP has made appearances in notable news outlets such as People, Salon, and CTV News in Canada, spotlighting their essential work. These efforts have culminated in substantial growth in donations, exceeding $2 million, which will fund vital conservation projects designed to protect an impressive 12,000 orangutans across nearly 2 million acres of land during the 2022-2023 fiscal year.

About the Merit Awards

Established in 2022, the Merit Awards serve to honor the exemplary contributions made by organizations and individuals who are shaping their industries. This program evaluates competitions across numerous sectors, with submissions being reviewed by a panel of respected judges including journalists, executives, and industry experts. The awards not only acknowledge the hard work put into various campaigns but also encourage further advancements within the industry.

The significance of this award is amplified by the ever-growing need for awareness and action towards conservation in the wake of environmental challenges and habitat loss. By nurturing their partnership with TOP, Orange Orchard exemplifies the impact that effective communication strategies can have on enhancing organizational missions.

Looking Ahead

Inspired by her passion for animals and the environment, Heather Ripley established Orange Orchard in 2018 as part of Ripley PR. The agency aims to promote animal-friendly brands and initiatives while providing essential services, including corporate communications and media relations. Their success with The Orangutan Project is a testament to their ability to drive meaningful change within communities and among donors.

For those interested in knowing more about Orange Orchard's initiatives and the impact they have on animal welfare, detailed information can be found at www.orangeorchardpr.com.