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OHA Statewide Campaign - 'Do The Right Thing'

OHA’s COVID-19 Mitigation Ads Earn National Awards, Recognition

OHA launched a $1 million COVID-19 mitigation campaign in September 2020 to encourage Ohioans to do the right thing to prevent the spread of the virus. The campaign centered on the emotional pleas of two COVID-19 survivors urging Ohioans to take precautions. The television, radio and social media advertisements aired Sept. 23 – Nov. 24 in markets across Ohio. 

We Know What Works - COVID-19 Survivor Chris Kielsmeier

Cleveland State University Women's Basketball Coach Chris Kielsmeier, 44, tested positive for COVID-19 in March 2020 and spent six days in the hospital. Kielsmeier recalls being anxious and frightened for his life. Grateful to be alive, he credits his recovery to the health care heroes who provided tremendous care and hope during his treatment. He hopes sharing his story will compel Ohioans to come together and take the necessary precautions to protect each other. 

Nothing Prepares You - COVID-19 Survivor Stacey Unsinger

Geneva resident Stacey Unsinger, 51, spent three weeks in a medically induced coma and on a ventilator after being diagnosed with COVID-19 in March 2020. The mother of four describes her experience as “terrifying,” and she feels lucky to be able to share what happened. During her 7-week hospital stay, Unsinger says she had moments when she did not know if she would survive, and she urges everyone to be safe and take the virus seriously.

Awards and Recognition

OHA's COVID-19 mitigation campaign earned multiple awards at the 42nd Annual Telly Awards, competing with 12,000+ entries from all 50 states and five continents.

  • The overall "Do The Right Thing" campaign received the silver award in the Not-for-Profit for Regional TV Campaign category.
  • The “We Know What Works” segment received four different awards including the People's Telly Award in General-Regional TV and the silver awards in Public Interest/AwarenessNot-for-profit; and Public Service/Social Responsibility Regional TV categories.


The American Association of Political Consultants also recognized OHA's COVID-19 mitigation campaign with national awards.

  • The "Do The Right Thing" campaign received the silver award in the Overall Public Affairs/Issue Advocacy Division Best Television Campaign category; and
  • The "Nothing Prepares You" video received the bronze award in the Television - Public Affairs/Issue Advocacy Division.