Dentsu to raise funds for Japanese earthquake anniversary with 'Kizuna Cranes'

Creative designers from both NYC‐headquartered McGarryBowen and its parent company, Tokyo‐based Dentsu, have incorporated elements inspired by both two cities in the 30 crane designs.

In Japan, the origami crane symbolises hope and recovery, while 'kizuna' is the Japanese word for 'bond' - a reflection of love, friendship and the common humanity that Japanese people and the rest of the world share. 

Japanese tradition imparts that if one folds 1,000 paper cranes, a special wish will be granted. For McGarryBowen, the creator of Kizuna Cranes in partnership with GlobalGiving, these tenets are honored in the goal of raising money for the Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Relief Fund by the one‐year anniversary. 

Users contribute their donations by sponsoring a crane, and adding a personal message. The donor is then able to track its total pledged amount, as well as its global trajectory on an interactive Google Map, becoming a part of the crane’s unique story as it travels the globe.

“Now is more critical than ever to support the Japanese people. It was important for us to find a way to utilise technology and design to stimulate financial support for the long‐term recovery efforts,” said McGarryBowen chief digital officer, John McGarry.