• June 17, 2009

Kimberly-Clark and its Depend brand have launched a strategic partnership with Zero The Project to End Prostate Cancer that includes a four-month campaign timed to launch on Father's Day, and Men's Health Awareness Week.

The "The Depend Campaign to End Prostate Cancer," which runs through September -- Prostate Cancer Awareness Month -- aims to educate men and their families about the risks associated with prostate cancer and the benefits of early detection.

The campaign includes a marketing effort for Depend with sports legends who have dealt with prostate cancer: golfer Jim Colbert, former baseball star and Zero board member Ken Griffey, Sr., Pro Football Hall of Famer Len Dawson and World Boxing Hall of Fame referee Joe Cortez, will join Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2009 inductee Rod Woodson, who at age 44 has pledged to be screened for the disease for the first time, as campaign ambassadors.

All five men will share their personal stories, interact with consumers online at Depend.com and participate in various marketing communications activities that will encourage men to be proactive about their prostate health.

From now through 2010, proceeds from the purchase of each package of Depend Underwear for Men and Depend Guards for Men will contribute to a final donation of $250,000 to the organization.

The site includes a database of articles, essays and tools on prostate health. The site will be updated throughout the campaign.--Karl Greenberg