More than 61% of the U.S. population is expected to have some form of cardiovascular disease by 2050, according to projections from the American Heart Association1 As a result, related health costs are expected to triple to $1.8 trillion. Through the Leaders of Impact™ campaign, the American Heart Association, devoted to changing the future to a world of healthier lives for all, is mobilizing leaders across the country to use their networks to raise awareness and funds to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Launching on Sept. 17 and running through Nov. 4, leaders across the country will begin a seven-week competition to improve health outcomes in their communities. They will leverage their collective influence to educate people on the lifesaving skill of Hands-Only CPR and raise funds that are critical to drive pioneering scientific research and support health and well-being for everyone, everywhere.
“The Leaders of Impact campaign brings together leaders who are willing to use their platform for something bigger than themselves,” said Eduardo Ortiz, chair of the Heart of Greater Washington campaign and CEO of Coforma. “In just seven weeks, they will drive real change in the Greater Washington Region to build a healthier future for our community.”
The Greater Washington Region’s 2026 Leaders of Impact Nominees are:
After Nov. 4, the nominee who raises the most lifesaving funds will be named the Greater Washington Region 2026 Leaders of Impact Winner. These changemakers will also be celebrated at the Greater Washington Region Heart Ball on March 13.
For more information on the Leaders of Impact Initiative or to support one of this year’s nominees, visit the campaign page here.