Lawyers Have Heart brings together runners and walkers — of all ages and levels of experience — to raise funds for the American Heart Association (AHA) for groundbreaking research, , experience the mission through movement, and raise
awareness of the prevention of heart disease and stroke and the link between physical activity and stress reduction. In 2023, the Lawyers Have Heart 10K, 5K and Fun Walk returns on May 20, 2023 to West Potomac Park — the site of the first-ever Lawyers Have Heart race back in 1991! A virtual option is also available for those to run or walk wherever inspiration strikes.
The new 10K course will cross the Arlington Memorial Bridge featuring stunning views of the Potomac River, circle the Tidal Basin, and head down East Potomac Street. With the earlier event date, participants should enjoy cooler temperatures on the course along with the verdant sights of spring. And, with a larger space for the finish line festival, plans are underway to add more activities for the entire family, a kids’ fun area, a dog zone and a larger hospitality garden in addition to the numerous sponsor meet-up areas and interactive booths where participants can learn Hands-Only CPR, pay tribute to a loved one, and take team photos.
Stepping up for the third year as Co-Chairs are Harrity & Harrity LLP’s Co-Founder John Harrity and American University Washington College of Law’s Associate Dean of Student Affairs, David Jaffe.
Lawyers Have Heart Co-Chairs, David Jaffe and John Harrity and American Heart Association Executive Director, Soula Antoniou
“We are thrilled to bring the race back full circle to its original location, which allows us to enhance our race day experience and takes our runners and walkers along a beautiful new course,” said Harrity. “This race is truly personal to me as my life was saved by science funded by the American Heart Association and we want to bring in even more people as a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.”
For Jaffe, the event elevates the continued need for mental health awareness and stress reduction in the legal profession. Research shows that chronic stressors like long work hours, financial stress, and work-life conflict may be as risky for health as secondhand smoke. “Reducing stress and cultivating a positive mindset is truly good for your heart and mind. If I can show my students and colleagues through my actions in supporting and adhering to the AHA’s work, that is extremely valuable,” said Jaffe.
Platform sponsor Harrity & Harrity LLP will match up to $50,000 in sponsorships, donations and registration fees between December 1 – 31. “That’s doubling the impact your dollar has,” shared Harrity.
Lawyers Have Heart raised a record-breaking $1.26 million in 2022. The event began in 1991 as a running and walking event
for the legal community and has evolved into a staple on DC’s running calendar, annually attracting over 6,500 runners and walkers of all levels of experience and from all walks of life. The race has grown in the virtual space as well with participation last year from around the world including throughout the United States, England, Croatia, Spain, South Africa, Japan, Turkey and Chile. To date, Lawyers Have Heart has raised over $18.26 million to benefit the American Heart Association to further its mission as a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.
“The race continues to grow beyond our physical start line in DC and it’s incredible to see,” said Jaffe. “The AHA makes it easy to register, fundraise and share your progress with family and friends through its apps and online platforms while creating opportunities to engage your workforce and family all year long.”
Registration is open with virtual and in-person options; prices to enter will increase in 2023. Sign up as a team or individual at www.LawyersHaveHeartDC.org. For sponsorship opportunities email [email protected]. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and use #RUNLHH.