Cultural Intelligence: Color & Culture Uses Research, Community to Create a Lasting Impact

Color & Culture was founded as a mission-driven agency – dedicated to connecting with communities too often ignored.

In 2022, Latino Connection and PPO&S Integrated Marketing Communications merged to form Color & Culture. It was a natural fit, combining their unique strengths and shared values to build something greater together.

Latino Connection brought deep expertise in grassroots outreach, while PPO&S contributed decades of experience in research, advertising, marketing, media buying, and public relations. Their shared mission of being changemakers made the transition seamless.

Today, Color & Culture is an agency built for a marketplace where the multicultural economy is already a $7 trillion force—and growing fast. CEO George Fernandez emphasizes that multiculturalism isn’t a future trend; it’s a present reality. Communities of color are driving growth in Pennsylvania and across the country. Yet, these communities are still too often overlooked. Color & Culture aims to close that gap by helping brands connect with people in ways that build credibility, strengthen relationships, and drive lasting growth.

So, how does the agency do it?
At the heart of Color & Culture’s approach is cultural intelligence—the analysis of cultural trends and shifts in consumer behavior. By using data to generate meaningful insights, the agency creates campaigns that resonate with their intended audiences. “Organizations like Aetna and Highmark Wholecare have trusted us with statewide initiatives,” Fernandez notes. “That reflects the confidence clients have in our approach.”

The team itself is another key to the agency’s success. Reflecting the cultural diversity of Pennsylvania, the team brings lived experience to the table—helping to identify blind spots, challenge assumptions, and craft marketing strategies that feel authentic rather than generic.

Unsurprisingly, this focus on culture extends beyond client work. Color & Culture is deeply community-oriented, with an engagement philosophy rooted in presence and purpose. “Trust is built when you truly listen and respond to people’s needs,” Fernandez explains. “That’s why we participate in initiatives like The Path to Equity summit and statewide health outreach programs. These efforts bring people, partners, and resources together to create real value.”

But activity alone isn’t enough. The agency also measures impact—evaluating whether their efforts expand reach, strengthen brand relevance, and build loyalty. “By connecting with these audiences,” Fernandez says, “we help organizations grow in ways that are both inclusive and sustainable.”

Based in Harrisburg, PA, Color & Culture sees its central location as a strategic advantage. It allows the agency to combine statewide reach with local execution. For example, campaigns like Wellness on Wheels—developed for clients like Aetna and Highmark Wholecare—demonstrated that bringing services directly into neighborhoods leads to stronger engagement and better outcomes.

“The impact is measurable,” Fernandez says. “Our clients have seen increased participation, stronger brand recognition in often-overlooked communities, and lasting connections with audiences shaping the future of the marketplace. That’s the kind of value we’re most proud to deliver.”

Looking ahead, Color & Culture is focused on growth—not just across Pennsylvania, but throughout the East Coast, including Maryland, Virginia, New Jersey, and North Carolina. The agency is also investing in new tools and strategies to better understand cultural shifts and act on them with confidence.