Celebrating Success: Lexicon Client MMI Named Finalist for Anthem Awards
Lexicon Strategies is proud to announce that our partners at Money Management International (MMI) have been honored as finalists in the 4th Annual Anthem Awards. The remarkable Peer Advocate Program that our team concepted, developed, and implemented for them is recognized under the Health category, underscoring its innovative approach to breaking down barriers to financial counseling and empowering communities to take control of their financial well-being.
MMI’s Peer Advocate Program is a beacon of hope, addressing the stigma associated with debt and making critical financial advice accessible to everyone, regardless of background or circumstance. As a non-profit leader in financial education, MMI’s work emphasizes personal empowerment, illustrating that debt can impact anyone—and that overcoming it is possible through community and shared experiences. We are proud to have supported their efforts for over 3 and a half years.
Peer Advocates: Real Stories, Real Impact
At the heart of this award-nominated initiative are nearly 500 Peer Advocates spread across 47 states, each having walked their own journey out of debt. These advocates put a human face on financial challenges, using their stories to inspire others and change the narrative around debt. By participating in interviews, panel discussions, and media appearances, they transform personal struggles into public inspiration—fostering a message of hope that resonates deeply with individuals in similar circumstances.
Since December 2020, our cumulative impact in supporting thought leadership and promoting stigma-reducing media coverage of MMI, leveraging peer advocates for much of the coverage, has reached $228.3 million in earned media value, with significant year-over-year growth, including an 82.4% increase in print and a 269.1% increase in broadcast media value in 2023.
Through the MMI and Lexicon partnership, the Peer Advocate Program has successfully secured national media placements and hyper-local coverage, allowing people to connect with relatable stories from their own communities. These advocates not only spread awareness but also provide validation and encouragement to those hesitating to seek help. Their efforts have led to a substantial increase in counseling inquiries, demonstrating the tangible power of shared experiences and peer-led advocacy.
Anthem Awards: Honoring Purpose-Driven Work
The Anthem Awards, launched by The Webby Awards, celebrate mission-driven individuals and organizations making a global impact. This year’s finalists, including MMI, reflect the values of perseverance and dedication to social good. Judges include leading voices in communications, social impact, and public service, such as experts from the NAACP, REI Co-op, and Pivotal Ventures.
The Peer Advocate Program’s inclusion as a finalist recognizes its role in transforming how financial services are perceived and accessed—an effort that inspires action and drives change across communities. As part of the Anthem Awards celebration, supporters can join the online recognition campaign from October 15th to October 31st at celebrate.anthemawards.com. Winners will be announced on November 19th, 2024, with all finalists in the running for Gold, Silver, and Bronze distinctions.
Making an Impact Together
At Lexicon Strategies, we are honored to support MMI’s mission and celebrate this recognition alongside them. Our shared work has created meaningful media opportunities for Peer Advocates, helping expand MMI’s reach and amplify the voices of those who have conquered financial challenges. These stories are crucial in shifting perspectives and encouraging others to seek help without fear or shame.
The Anthem Awards finalists represent a collective commitment to building better futures. The Peer Advocate Program is an inspiring example of how compassion, lived experience, and effective communication can drive significant change. We congratulate MMI on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to bring hope and financial wellness to even more people nationwide.