Bounty and Russell Simmon’s Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation Unveil National Arts Mural with Joseph “Rev. Run” and Tory Burch in Support of Arts Education

New York – Nov. 2, 2009 – Students from New York City public school PS 165 assisted Procter & Gamble’s Bounty brand along with Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation co-founder and entertainment mogul Russell Simmons, hip-hop pioneer Joseph “Rev. Run” Simmons, American fashion designer and humanitarian Tory Burch, and artist Amanda Williams in unveiling the completed Building Bounty-ful Bridges 33-foot painted mural. The mural is a compilation of all the completed pieces of the traveling arts program that toured the nation sponsored by Bounty in partnership with Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation.

Through Bounty’s partnership with Rush Philanthropic, children from New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Washington D.C., New Orleans, and Cincinnati have collaborated in creating a large-scale painting depicting a bridge in their city and representing the “space between us.” Youth groups in each city were able to showcase their creativity by being inspired by the city they live in and learn by doing the project with other children. This is in perfect sync with Bounty’s mission to provide children with fun, hands-on activities that nurture their creativity and curiosity outside the classroom.

To bring this program to life, Rush Philanthropic Director of Education at Rush, Meridith McNeal, and featured artist, Amanda Williams, collaborated with a different youth arts organization in each city to promote artistic expression and help bring communities across the country together. “Bounty is proud to be a part of Building Bounty-ful Bridges in recognizing art education as a priority for America’s youth. Seeing the final mural truly depicts the creativity and different interpretations of each city,” said Eric Higgs, brand manager, Bounty. “Given the creative work and hands on approach Rush Philanthropic has already taken with kids around the country, they have made a great partner in bringing this program to life.”

“As art has been such a pivotal aspect in my life, I want the youth of today to realize that art can transform lives and bring people together by unleashing the imagination,” said Russell Simmons, chairman and co-founder of Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation and entertainment mogul. “This partnership with Rush Philanthropic and Bounty reinforces that idea.”

After the program, each partnering organization will take turns exhibiting the completed mural allowing for this project to travel through the country. For more information on Bounty’s partnership with Rush Philanthropic and fun, at-home art activities, visit www.bountymakeamessterpiece.com.

Contact Information

Laura Lewis/Suzanne Matulay

Contacts

Procter & Gamble/MS&L

Contact via E-mail