Asthma remains one of the most common chronic conditions among children, affecting their health, school attendance, and daily lives. To address this, the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) partnered with Hip Hop Public Health (HHPH) to launch EMPOWER—a multimedia educational campaign that inspires young people with asthma to take charge of their health with evidence-based, self-management skills.  

The EMPOWER campaign was recently honored with the Communicator Award of Excellence for Innovation & Strategic Achievement-Social Impact, the highest distinction given by the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts (AIVA). Now in its 31st year, the Communicator Awards celebrate outstanding achievement in marketing and communications, recognizing content that fosters human connection through compelling storytelling and design.  

“We’re so proud to have this campaign recognized by the Communicator Awards,” said Sara Espinoza, president and CEO of NEEF. “Working with Hip Hop Public Health has been incredibly inspiring. Together, we’ve created something that really connects with kids, families, and healthcare providers, and helps them manage asthma in a way that feels approachable and useful.”  

Launched in 2023, EMPOWER includes eight original songs and animated videos, each highlighting a key component of asthma self-management, represented by the EMPOWER acronym: Environment, Medication, Plan, Open communication, Well-being, Extinguish, and Resilience.

Working with Hip Hop Public Health has been incredibly inspiring. Together, we’ve created something that really connects with kids, families, and healthcare providers, and helps them manage asthma in a way that feels approachable and useful.

Sara Espinoza, NEEF President & CEO

Hip Hop Public Health is an award-winning nonprofit co-founded by renowned neurologist Dr. Olajide Williams and hip hop icon Doug E. Fresh. "We’re honored to be recognized with this award alongside our incredible partners at NEEF," said Lindsey Harr, Hip Hop Public Health’s chief program and operations officer. "At Hip Hop Public Health, we believe in the power of music to break through barriers, spark curiosity, and make health literacy engaging and accessible for all communities. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to empowering young people with the knowledge and confidence to take charge of their health."

For the full list of 2025 Communicator Awards winners, visit the Communicator Awards website.

To access the full EMPOWER collection on-demand and for free, visit the HHPH Learning Studio.