UnLtd, the advertising and media industry’s social purpose organisation, has brought together senior industry leaders across 19 organisations to take part in Gotcha4Life’s COLIV-19 campaign.
The COLIV19 campaign has a simple task: Connect with 19 people, over 19 days.
The campaign was created by Gotcha4Life, a mental health and suicide prevention organisation set up by Gus Worland and it aims to help us "co-live" on this planet in a more connected, positive and supportive way in the era of COVID-19 and beyond.
The consumer campaign has already been supported by celebrities including Hugh Jackman, Mark Geyer, Ally Green, James Tedesco and Jake Trbojevic.
The campaign will see senior executives from 19 organisations across the media and marketing industry commit to reaching out to 19 contacts over a period of 19 days, to check in with loved ones, friends and colleagues.
Taking part in the initiative: Aimee Buchanan, OMD; Brendon Cook, oOh! Media; Dan Stinton, The Guardian; Ellie Rogers, Facebook; Guy Burbidge, Val Morgan; Kurt Burnette, Seven; Lou Barrett, News Corp; Mark Coad, IPG Mediabrands; Mark Frain, Foxtel Media; Mark Jarrett, PHD; Mark Lollback, GroupM; Michael Stephenson, Nine; Nat Harvey, Seven; Paul Brooks, Nine; Paul Sigaloff, Verizon Media; Peter Charlton, Nova; Peter Whitehead, ARN; Prue Cox, LinkedIn, Richard Hunwick, Nine; Rod Prosser, 10; Steve O’Connor, JCDecaux and Sue Squillace, Carat.
Chris Freel, CEO of UnLtd, says now is an important time to check in with people.
“There’s no doubt the pandemic has had a major impact on the financial, emotional, physical and mental wellbeing of our industry," he says.
"We are now nearly two months into the lock-down and a lot of the initial novelty has started to wear off and reality is starting to kick in.
"It’s so important that we stay connected and check in with people who may need support, even if and when the restrictions are relaxed.”
“We’re overwhelmed by the support we’ve received from the senior leaders across the industry and we hope that their involvement in the campaign will encourage others to take part and check in with people you care about. Call them. Skype them. Message them. Write them a letter. Or send them a gift with a note. Just reconnect with them in some meaningful way.”
Aimee Buchanan, CEO of OMD, says this is a reminder of how important it is to stay connected through this challenging time.
"Sometimes, a simple call from a friend is all that is needed to put things into perspective and bring a smile on your face," she says.
"I’m looking forward to sharing some laughs and meaningful conversations over the next 19 days with friends and colleagues.”
Anyone can take part in COLIV19 campaign, more details can be found at:
If you or someone you care about needs urgent support, please contact:
Lifeline 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78
Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
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