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Home » The Creative Now: A Chat with Jimmy Learned, President and Managing Director of Elevation, a D.C.-Based Communications Agency

As a kid, Cade Martin spent many dinners surrounded by friends of his parents, an eclectic cast of characters — sculptors, writers, painters, creatives - in today's world of social distancing, he has virtual dinners, including this one with Jimmy Learned, President and Managing Director of Elevation, a D.C.-based Communications Agency.

The Creative Now: A Chat with Jimmy Learned, President and Managing Director of Elevation, a D.C.-Based Communications Agency

by | May 30, 2020

By Cade Martin

As a kid I spent many a dinner at a table surrounded by friends of my parents, an eclectic cast of characters — sculptors, writers, painters, creatives. That thread of creative community has remained in our offices, our teams, and our collaborations. But that thread feels thinner in this moment. 

So I asked, with the purpose of sharing, and of supporting and caring for this creative community in its current, uncertain reality. I asked what people are doing, how they are feeling, how they are sparking creativity. It feels important to share what we do, when we can’t do all our doing.

Reaching out first to some of the talented people I’ve had the good fortune to profile though the Capitol Communicator portrait series.  It’s my version of a virtual dinner table of sorts. Grab a chair. 

Jimmy, what if anything, are you doing differently?

Well, like most, I am washing the skin off my hands and abusing disinfecting wipes .

In all seriousness, I do find myself doing a ton more reflection – of and about the times we are all living in.

Spiritually, professionally and personally.  It is very cathartic and I commit to optimism and hope.

Obviously, routines have changed and I try to have fun and creativity with that as well. Never thought I would enjoy confusing the dogs so much. They have no idea when the walks are these days!?  Physical activity contains many change ups and professionally, I am a full-on ZOOM junkie!!

You have to remember that Camp Elevation is mostly made up of passionate, nutty, Latinos and this social distancing stuff is a HUGE diversion from the norm. We love our hugs, man.  I must say, I have been impressed how organized and committed we have been to daily meetings, calls and staying engaged with our clients and ourselves. I feel it has brought us closer as a family which is a huge statement.

 Are you staying creatively active?

Absolutely!! We are very fortunate to have active clients and contracts, which keep us engaged and continuously seeking new strategic and creative solutions for our partners and their respective needs and objectives.  Particularly, post COVID-19 messaging campaigns we are developing, which we will be launching both domestically and internationally when the time is right.

While I have tremendous pride in the 18 year journey Elevation has humbly and passionately enjoyed… in these crazy, daunting times, we as a family felt we needed to do something different and do our part to support and pay love and gratitude to the amazing health professionals, service providers and first responders… THE HEROES.

Thus, we created and established Feeding Courage,  a partnership with Eco CatersDC, in which we lead the way in feeding front liners weekly at the VA Hospital Center, MedStar, Arlington Free Clinic, The Family Place, Mary Center, Metro Police and the list goes on.  This included, of course; forming the Co., branding, web development, social outreach strategies, creative development, grassroots connectivity and engagement. All in record time, I think?! It feels. It continues to be a tremendously humbling, inspiring and rewarding effort. Could not be prouder of our team and more importantly, the real heroes we revere and serve every day. 

 How are you sparking yourself creatively?

 Great question. Every morning, my teen daughter says… “dad, keep it @#*%$ down!!, it’s only 8 AM – it’s really 10:30 –, you are too loud and excited”!!! Yeah baby. Bring it on. I fully realize that I am beyond blessed in my life and additionally blessed, to be surrounded by amazingly inspiring, talented, driven and creative individuals that make creative inspiration and “spark” an omnipresent coffee time deliverable.  I love the fact that we are pro-active and on attack mode when we start our days and face the challenges and opportunities that lay before us.  We also realize and embrace the fact that there are many, many, less fortunate souls than us, and that, is a beacon of purpose and an inspiration to provide hugs and love… virtual or otherwise. 

 

About the Author

Capitol Communicator is a unique online and offline resource for Mid-Atlantic advertising, marketing, public relations, digital and media communications professionals. The e-magazine, e-newsletters and events bring together communications professionals, fostering community and providing important information; news; trends; education; and opportunities for networking, career enhancement, business exchange and showcasing great work. Visit www.capitolcommunicator.com to learn more.

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