A Campbell’s Tomato Soup essay contest became a seamlessly integrated recurring storyline in the show, placing the brand not just on television. The youngest daughter character purchased cans to enter the contest, ate the product and discussed her essay with family and friends. This plotline actively demonstrated the ‘possibilities’ for using Campbell’s Tomato Soup as the family enjoyed a soup dinner with mix-ins and prepared a welcome basket with Tomato Soup for their new neighbours.

Campbell’s Tomato Soup consumption rose by 4% its first increase this decade! Campbell’s involvement with "American Dreams" delivered the best viewer recall for three consecutive months. The winner of the promotion appeared on the show and was awarded a $100,000 scholarship. The US marketing and broadcast communities hailed this a milestone in television history and the activity received nationwide PR coverage.