George Mascon University's Gunston mascot w/ kids

Where does community spontaneously happen? Where do we bump shoulders with strangers? Where do we just get silly!

When we’re in the presence of a mascot, that’s where!

The photo at the top of this page is of Gunston. Gunston is green and he promotes all things green – from recycling to designing “green” buildings. Gunston brings people together, in community around an idea —and, well, Gunston is a mascot. People gravitate to mascots.

Where mascots are, a community emerges. People gather.

Roche Diagnostics - Accu-Chek Peforma insulin meter at diabetes camp in Venezuela

It doesn’t take great talent, superior intellect or an educated eye to joke, to have fun and to pass the time of day in the presence of a mascot. When a mascot is around we have a reason to connect.

A mascot is the perfect, goofy and generous host.

While we may think a mascot is merely a marketing tool, really, a mascot is a hand extended in community.

Organization that put in the long hours of imaginative, strategic planning, design collaboration and dollars into a mascot program is really holding out their hand in joy, trust. They are showing their desire to be part of the larger community.

Closing time at the Children’s Museum

Rex stands at the top floor of the museum. He has a big, rainbow colored belly & he knows how to move it. He has a big tail that he knows how to wiggles when he walks.

Rex, with wholly, unfettered joy, starts off the Mascot Parade at the Children’s Museum. Children follow Rex the Dinosaur round and round, down the 4 story ramp.

The Mascot Parade at the Children’s Museum

Children beg their parents to go to the Rex Parade at the Children’s Museum in Indianapolis. Colored flags are shared, hops and skips are practiced. It’s fun to follow and mimic Rex. The children finesse their hops, skips and flag waving. The parade meanders down the 4 story ramp that spirals down to the first floor, through the entryway (or exitway) and out the door.

Here’s the video: End of Day Parade w/ Rex mascot

The parade is an exuberant blast of fun. It is also a way to close down the museum for the night. The Rex mascot parade is a daily event – yes. It is also a fun, efficient and kind way to close down the museum.

Rex Rules!

Let’s connect and discuss big things!

Say Hello

Archives for February 2014