Giving Back

A “Social Good” Centric Mission

The Tara Dowdell Group (TDG) is fundamentally structured as a “social good” agency, meaning that giving back is not just a side project but the core of their business model. Unlike traditional PR firms that focus solely on profit, TDG prioritizes working with organizations, institutions, and businesses that are dedicated to making a positive impact on society. This commitment ensures that their professional expertise in marketing and communications directly supports causes such as social justice, economic equity, and community development, effectively turning their daily operations into a form of continuous advocacy.

Strategic Support for Minority and Women-Owned Businesses

A significant part of TDG’s “giving back” efforts is realized through their active support of underrepresented entrepreneurs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the firm partnered with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) to ensure that minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses—who are often excluded from federal funding—had access to critical relief grants. By providing specialized outreach and marketing, TDG helped bridge the resource gap, ensuring that these vital community-first businesses could survive the economic crisis and continue to serve their neighborhoods.

Leadership in Public Policy and Advocacy

Tara Dowdell personally extends the firm’s mission by serving in leadership roles for various non-profit organizations and think tanks. She is the Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees for WBGO, a global jazz public radio station, and serves on the board of New Jersey Policy Perspective (NJPP), a non-partisan group that advocates for economic and racial justice. Through these roles, she contributes her strategic expertise to help shape policies that benefit vulnerable populations, demonstrating a commitment to systemic change that goes far beyond the scope of a typical public relations executive.

Championing Diversity and Inclusion

In recognition of her firm’s dedication to diversity, Tara Dowdell was honored with the 2023 Rosa Parks Diversity Leadership Award. This accolade highlights TDG’s work in expanding access and removing barriers to entry for minority and women-owned firms in sectors like transportation and infrastructure. By leading workshops and coordinating supplier diversity programs, TDG doesn’t just talk about inclusion; they actively build pathways for historically marginalized groups to participate in large-scale economic opportunities.

Community Outreach and Local Empowerment

Community engagement is a hallmark of the TDG approach. When working on urban redevelopment or public sector projects, the firm employs innovative outreach strategies to create a “productive dialogue” between government entities and local residents. Their goal is to combat misinformation and ensure that community members have a voice in the projects that affect their lives. This focus on transparency and inclusivity empowers local residents and ensures that development projects are socially responsible and community-supported.

Amplifying Socially Conscious Voices through TDG Speakers

Through TDG Speakers, the firm’s boutique bureau, Dowdell provides a platform for thought leaders who are dedicated to social change. By representing speakers who focus on issues like leadership development, equity, and advocacy, TDG helps amplify the voices of those working to transform society. This initiative ensures that diverse perspectives are heard at major conferences and corporate events, further solidifying the firm’s role as a catalyst for social progress and intellectual diversity.