Pennsylvania

Penn Medicine, the American Heart Association, and Community Organizations are Teaming Up to Take Down High Blood Pressure in West and Southwest Philadelphia

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Group photo of AHA, Penn Medicine and community and clinical partners holding certificates and a ceremonial jersey

Initiative Kickoff at Second Baptist Church Food Pantry Penn Medicine and the Greater Philadelphia American Heart Association (AHA) launched a collaborative effort aimed at taking down the toll of high … Read more

109 hospitals in Pennsylvania recognized for efforts to improve outcomes for Americans with heart disease and stroke

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More than 100 hospitals across Pennsylvania are among the 2,600 nationwide that participate in the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® initiative to improve outcomes for Americans who experience … Read more

The American Heart Association proudly announces NFI Driving for Change award recipients

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These four employees committed to a lifestyle change utilizing the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8 and were selected by a committee at the American Heart Association and NFI.  Life’s … Read more

Wegmans and the American Heart Association teaming up to save lives through CPR

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With nearly 3 out of 4 cardiac arrests outside of the hospital occurring in homes, knowing how to perform CPR is critically important[1]. CPR, especially if performed immediately, could double … Read more

Philadelphia American Heart Association and the Philadelphia Union Hosts the Return of CycleNation at Subaru Park

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The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association (AHA/ASA) annual indoor cycling “CycleNation” event was held at Subaru Park in Chester, PA on Thursday, July 28th. The goal of the event was to encourage Philadelphia and surrounding counties residents to use cycling to improve heart and brain health, while raising funds to continue the AHA/ASA’s vital community programs, research, and advocacy efforts to end heart disease and stroke.

 

The American Stroke Association (a division of the American Heart Association) brought 30 stationary bikes to Subaru Park to host a CycleNation event for employees, volunteers, and sponsors. At the end of the workday, more than 50 people were led through several fun and energetic rides.

 

The goal of CycleNation is to use cycling and other exercise activities to improve heart and brain health, while raising funds to continue the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association’s vital community programs, lifesaving research and advocacy efforts to end heart disease and stroke.

 

Being physically active is key to preventing heart disease and stroke, the nation’s No. 1 and No. 5 killers, with stroke being the No. 3 killer in Western New York. To improve overall cardiovascular health, the American Heart Association suggests at least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise, or 75 minutes per week of vigorous exercise.

 

CycleNation is nationally sponsored by Amgen and locally sponsored by Crozer Health, Philadelphia Union, Subaru, Arel Capital, Genesis HealthCare, Kemberton, and ProMedica.

To donate to the Philadelphia CycleNation, visit cyclenation.org/phillyride. For more information on the prevention and treatment of heart disease and stroke, visit stroke.org.

Four Pittsburgh companies make bold commitments to heart and brain health.

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PITTSBURGH, June 10, 2022 — On the ninety-eighth anniversary of the founding of the American Heart Association, Pittsburgh companies are making bold commitments to stand with the Association as it drives toward its 2024 Impact Goal which is focused on improving cardiovascular health for all while identifying and removing barriers to health care access and quality.

“As champions for health equity, the American Heart Association believes that everyone everywhere deserves the opportunity to live a full and healthy life,” said Kenyokee Crowell, senior vice president, Clinical Services, Highmark Health and AHA Greater Pittsburgh board chair. “Although we have made tremendous progress in fighting heart disease and stroke in our community, our work is far from complete. The American Heart Association Founders Day provides a great reminder that we must continue the fight, so every single person in our community has access to the resources they need to be healthy.”

The American Heart Association, the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke, was founded in 1924 by six cardiologists, and  the distinguished achievements of the organization over nearly one hundred years are the result of the passion of more than 40 million volunteers, supporters and employees who together have raised – and funded — more than $4.8 billion in research.

For nearly a century, the American Heart Association, has saved and improved lives, pioneered scientific discovery and advocated for healthy public policies in communities across the country. These bold moves have helped transform the nation’s overall health and significantly reduce heart disease and stroke death rates.

Reaching for bold goals is made possible because of like-minded organizations who share in the vision of better health for the Greater Pittsburgh region. Four Pittsburgh companies have pledged their support of donations of time, talent and funds through 2024. These companies are:

  • UPMC & UPMC Health Plan
  • FedEx Ground
  • Giant Eagle
  • Peoples Gas

”We are just getting started on the next chapter of our relentless work to end heart disease and stroke,” said Leeanna McKibben, MSN, RN, chief of staff, Office of the Senior Vice Chancellor, Health Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh and AHA Greater Pittsburgh board president. “We know that we can’t achieve our monumental goals alone and are grateful to the Greater Pittsburgh community for the passion and commitment they give to support the mission of the American Heart Association.”

Driving to achieve the 2024 Impact Goal, the American Heart Association will continue to lead breakthroughs in science and technology, improve health care and advocate for federal, state and local policies that drive healthier lifestyles.

To learn more about the American Heart Association visit, heart.org/FoundersDay or contact Karen Colbert for more information.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

 

For Media Inquiries:

Karen Colbert: 412.475.4928; karen.colbert@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org

Tune in to the Celebration! Virtual Volunteer Award Show hosted by American Heart Association on June 28

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Media Advisory  For Immediate Release  6/4/22                                                                                   Virtual Award Show for American Heart Association   What:  The American Heart Association will recognize some of its brightest stars and those … Read more

Springfield Township Middle School students raise $4K, to fight cardiovascular disease on behalf of the American Heart Association

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Springfield Township Middle School students waited nearly three years to bring back its annual dodgeball tournament. Greg Cannon and students held a presentation ceremony to present close to $4,000 to … Read more

Walgreens supports heart and brain health through the American Heart Association’s Life Is Why campaign

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Shoppers can support the life-saving work of the American Heart Association Walgreens is proud to support the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain … Read more

Media Advisory: The American Heart Association & Independence Visitor Center Kick Off Heart Month with a very special National Red Day & CPR Training Friday 2/4/2022

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For Media Inquiries: Theresa Spencer: 267-997-3354; Theresa.Spencer@Heart.org For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721) heart.org and stroke.org   WHO: The American Heart Association Philadelphia team and Independence Visitor Center. WHAT: Signature red … Read more

Brown’s Super Stores, Oak Street Health, and AHA Collaborate to Establish a Community-based Blood Pressure Screening, Education, and Referral Initiative

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Brown’s Super Stores, Oak Street Health, and AHA Collaborate to establish a Community-based Blood Pressure Screening, Education, and Referral Initiative. Hypertension is the leading cause of heart disease and stroke, … Read more

Media Advisory: American Heart Association Philadelphia Heart Walk 2021 set for November 6 at Citizens Bank Park

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For Media Inquiries: Theresa Spencer: 267-997-3354; Theresa.Spencer@Heart.org For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721) heart.org and stroke.org   This year’s American Heart Association Heart Walk will take place on Saturday, Nov. 6, … Read more

2021 Southern New Jersey Heart – First In- Person Event Since the Pandemic

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On October 23, 2021, the Fall Southern New Jersey Heart Walk took place at the Riverwinds Community Center in West Deptford, NJ. This was the first outdoor and in-person event since the beginning of the pandemic. Over 600 people and even a few pets attended the Heart Walk and raised over $100,000. Nicholas Scardino, VP of Truist Bank served as the Fall Heart Walk Chairman. During an interview with POP 99.9 FM, he shared that he is a heart survivor and how he experienced a heart attack while looking in the mirror getting ready for work. Emma Kimenhour, Development Director for South New Jersey, and her team ensured that everyone was safe while having a great time.

 

The Heart Walk is designed to help companies positively impact employee overall health and well-being. The program is anchored in a series of customizable workplace events that inspires employees to be more engaged, reconnect with colleagues, get in their physical activity, support a great cause and have a lot of fun doing it.

 

Thank you to BB&T now Truist Bank, Zallies Shop Rite, Virtua Health System, Jefferson, Lockheed Martin, Bayada, M & T Bank, Pop FM 99.9 radio, Riverwinds Community Center, and the many other sponsors who supported the walk and for all those who volunteered to make this a successful event. It’s not too late to donate, go to www.snjfallhw.org.

 

Contact Emma.Kimenhour@heart.org for more information and how to participate in the 2022 Spring Heart Walk, date, time, and location to be determined.

Philadelphia’s American Heart Association Host’s Hard Hats with Hearts – First In-Person Event Since the Start of the Pandemic

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Philadelphia, PA. September 30, 2021 – The American Heart Association of Philadelphia hosted Hard Hats with Hearts, the organization’s first in-person event since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic.  The event was held at Xfinity Live! in South Philadelphia, to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke, the number 1 and number 5 killers respectively, of Americans which disproportionately affects the construction industry. Today, 1 in 4 construction workers are considered obese, and 25% use tobacco and do not get enough exercise.

The Association in Philadelphia is bringing “Hard Hats with Heart” to several construction industry employers to provide resources, education, and inspiration to help employees live a heart-healthier lifestyle in Philadelphia. During the pandemic, $405,750 were raised under Shawn Carlin’s (Vice President of Gilbane Building Co.) chairmanship.

Over 130 construction and healthcare providers attended the networking cocktail the outdoor reception on the patio of upscale 1100 Social at X-Finity Live!.

Philadelphia’s construction industry has been a strong supporter of the American Heart Association. Over 40 construction-related companies sponsored the 2021 Philadelphia Heart Walk including IBEW 98, Gilbane, Cordish Companies, Madison Concrete Construction, CBRE, and much more.

 

Join us on November 6th at Citizens Bank Park for the Philadelphia Heart Walk. For more information, contact Michelle Evetts at Michelle.Evetts@Heart.org or by calling (215) 575- 5239.

Pittsburgh Pastor Receives Top Grant at the First EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator™ Faith-Based

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The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, announced the top awardees of its first-ever EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator™ Faith-Based hosted … Read more

American Heart Association Philadelphia Names David Pacitti, President of Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc. and Head of Americas at Siemens Healthineers as 2021 Philadelphia Heart Walk Chairman

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Philadelphia, July 22, 2021 — The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on ensuring longer, healthier lives for all, has named David Pacitti, President of Siemens Medical … Read more

Penn Medicine-Led Research Team Awarded $2.9 Million to Study Heart Disease and Cancer in Black and Hispanic Communities

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Grant will fund projects aimed at reducing racial disparities in breast and prostate cancer patients with a higher risk for cardiovascular disease July 19, 2021 Bonnie Ky, MD, MSCE PHILADELPHIA— The … Read more

Five Faith-Based Organizations Named as Finalists in the American Heart Association’s First EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator™ Faith-Based

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Over $105,000 in Grants Will be Awarded to Local Community Leaders Faith-based organizations and places of worship have played an important role during the COVID-19 crisis in our country. These … Read more

EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator™ Faith-Based Workshop Highlights Powerful Partnerships, Kicks-Off Grant Application Period

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Webinar panelists four-pane
Webinar panelists share wisdom around community impact.

The power of partnerships built on trust, dignity and respect was a key theme during March 17th’s EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator™ Faith-Based Workshop Zoom webinar, hosted by the American Heart Association (AHA), Eastern States region.

“When you see value in people, it affirms that value that is in you,” said Dr. Abraham Shanklin, Jr. Founder/Executive Director of the Center for Transformation in Maryland, an AHA collaborator.

During the webinar, Shanklin and ENON Tabernacle Baptist Church Rev. Leroy Miles, Jr. of Philadelphia, provided tips based on their own experiences in bolstering scalable community impact.

“It’s about those relationships that give you access,” said Miles. “Don’t be afraid to try, don’t be afraid to ask.”

Shanklin speaking
Bishop Shanklin

Shanklin and Miles offered wisdom gleaned from their own community leadership experiences to inspire webinar participants as AHA, Eastern States region launched the application cycle opening for it’s EmPOWERED to Serve Faith-Based Accelerator. The Faith-Based Accelerator is a grant-funding initiative for faith institutions and leaders to continue and scale their business models aimed at addressing social determinants of health in their communities. AHA aligns with faith-based communities to improve health and empower sustainable outcomes. Applications for a total of $105K in grant funding to communities of faith in select states will be accepted through April 30, 2021. Learn more or apply here.

Miles headsot
Reverend Miles

Shanklin and Miles were joined by AHA’s Vice President, Health Equity and National Partnerships Pamela Garmon-Johnson, who emphasized how important it is to deploy resources “connecting the dots so that we can have the greatest impact on our communities.”

“We have been charged with a purpose in order to be the voice for the voiceless….when we put all of our resources together that is when we can truly, truly put together the greatest difference,” said Garmon-Johnson.

Both Miles and Shanklin have successfully bolstered efforts to positively impact the social determinants of health in their own communities — factors that influence where and how people live, learn, work and play and provide context to a person’s life. Social determinants can play just as big of a role in affecting health as medications and physical lifestyle changes. Their work has included focusing on recidivism, family stability, food security, and health knowledge.

“We’ve tried to be a model and help you replicate [successful programs] at your spot,” said Miles, who collaborated to move ENON’s annual “Know Your Numbers” health-screening day, aimed at reaching 1,000 Philadelphia men, to a drive-through experience amid COVID-19. Participants were able to get take-home colon screening kits, HIV screenings, BP checks, glucose, cholesterol, and COVID screenings at the event which Miles termed a “significant pivot in such a time as this.” AHA provided take-home blood pressure kits for self-monitoring for those who were found to be hypertensive.

“You all are heroes in your respective areas, the assignments that you have, the passion that you have. All of these ideas [we are putting forth], they serve just as starting blocks,” said Shanklin. Among the many initiatives of the Center, Shanklin and his partners were able to feed 1200 people in Maryland and distribute over 50K pounds of food by leveraging county relationships.

Both Miles and Shanklin highlighted the value of partnering with organizations, including AHA. “I love the partnerships with AHA and EmPOWERED to Serve,” said Shanklin. Miles noted that the reimagined “Know Your Numbers” program gained traction due to partnerships with local AHA board members and Einstein Health.

“Powerful partnerships, meeting people where they are, and speaking with a trustworthy voice are three of the AHA’s Guiding Values — our 10 commitments to health equity — this shores up making sure that we are holding ourselves accountable so that we can make an impact,” said Garmon-Johnson.

American Heart Association, Eastern States Vice President Health Strategies Rhonda Ford-Chatmon asked webinar participants to provide feedback so that AHA can continue to strengthen community partnerships.

“Tell us what you need. We are here to be responsible. We are listening to you, and we want to be of help,” said Ford-Chatmon. She invited anyone with community needs to email questions or ideas to 2021FaithBasedAccelerator@heart.org

To watch the entire workshop, click here.

The American Heart Association Launches Funding Initiative Aimed at Supporting Communities through Local Faith Institutions

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Faith-based organizations and places of worship have played an important role during the COVID-19 crisis in our country. These organizations and their volunteers and staff have been on the frontline, … Read more

Philadelphia Resident Named Among Top Finalists for AHA EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator™

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Community activists, social entrepreneurs, and changemakers are among the list of top candidates for the 2020-21 EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator™. Included in the list of nine finalists is Philadelphia resident Kevin Dixon, who is a mentor at Rebel Ventures where he inspires high school … Read more

AHA President: The best way forward requires bridging disciplines, people, places

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The challenges facing our world are many – from timely concerns such as the coronavirus pandemic and the renewed emphasis it has placed on the need to dismantle structural racism … Read more

AHA Philadelphia and Thomas Jefferson University’s “Rock the Red” Fashion Show Goes Virtual

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Written in collaboration with Nicole Murphy, program coordinator for the Fashion Design Department at Jefferson University.  Each year, Thomas Jefferson University juniors majoring in fashion design partner with the American Heart Association Philadelphia to create red dresses for a Rock the Red Dress fashion show that’s held … Read more

The AHA Launches 2nd Webinar in a Series Discussing Impact of COVID-19 on Communities of Color

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Long before the pandemic, systemic challenges have contributed to disparities that impede some people from living long, healthy lives. Your ZIP code should not determine how long you live, but … Read more

ICYMI: Eastern States Launched a Webinar Series on the Impact of COVID-19 on Communities of Color

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On May 15, the Eastern States Community Impact team launched the first webinar of a series designed to discuss the impact of COVID-19 in communities of color. The webinar was … Read more

The AHA Convenes Health Equity Leaders to Discuss Impact of COVID-19 on Communities of Color

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Long before the coronavirus impacted how we live, work, and play, systemic challenges contributed to disparities that impede some people from living long, healthy lives. Your ZIP code should not … Read more

COVID-19: The Impact on Communities of Color

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Updated May 29, 2020 Long before the coronavirus impacted how we live, work, and play, systemic challenges contributed to disparities that impede some people from living long, healthy lives. Your … Read more

Lancaster County Family Shares Daughter’s Story at Heart Ball to Raise Funds for Cardiovascular Research and Education

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More than 260 Lancaster County business and community leaders attended the 35th annual Lancaster Heart Ball on Saturday, Feb. 1 at the Lancaster Country Club. The event raised more than $220,000 to support the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, thanks in large part to the testimony of the Moran family of Mount Joy.

Austin and Addie Moran shared the story of welcoming their daughter Shiloh into the world in August 2019. Two days later, as they were getting ready to take her home from the hospital, they learned that doctors discovered four congenital heart defects. She battled a staph infection before being able to undergo life-saving open heart surgery to correct her heart defects. She continues to be monitored closely and will be returning for a stent-placement procedure due to a re-narrowing of her aorta, but the Moran’s are hopeful and enjoy seeing Shiloh grow into a healthy baby.

Children born with critical congenital heart defects like Shiloh’s have a much greater chance to enjoy a long and healthy life than they could only a few decades ago thanks to the advanced detection and surgical interventions available today. The American Heart Association has funded more than $3.8 billion in heart disease and stroke research, including research that led to the development of stents.

“It’s amazing that her life can be stabilized and repaired due to someone way back when making a donation to discover the technology and medical device that has become what it is today,” said Austin Moran. “We were so lucky to have family, friends, church and workplaces supporting us. Without that, I don’t know how people do it.”

American Music Theatre dancers perform at 2020 Lancaster Heart Ball. Photo by Lindsey Ford Photography.

Other highlights of the evening included a performance by American Music Theatre to welcome guests and set the Heart of the Forest theme, the Keep the Beat Dance Hour featuring songs that are the correct tempo for performing Hands-Only CPR, a heart-healthy dinner, a silent and live auction, and musical entertainment by The Uptown Band.

Volunteers from American Music Theatre accept the Kim McNabb and Glenn L. Myers Friend of Heart Award at the 2020 Lancaster Heart Ball. Photo by Lindsey Ford Photography.

Diane Murry & Bill Coder presented the second Kim McNabb and Glenn L. Myers Friend of Heart Award to Jim & Laurie Martin and Andrea McCormick & Michael Smith of American Music Theatre in honor of their commitment to providing exciting entertainment and design services to the Lancaster Heart Ball since 1985. The award was named after long-time Heart Ball committee member and American Heart Association volunteer Kim McNabb who passed away of a heart-related illness in 2018.

Funds raised will support the American Heart Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives through community education, public policy advocacy, healthcare quality improvement and investment in lifesaving research.

Barry Mitchneck, director of nursing for UPMC Pinnacle, is serving as the event’s chair. The Heart Ball is sponsored locally by the Gunterberg Charitable Foundation, The E.E. Murry Family Foundation, UPMC Pinnacle, The Byler Family Trust, Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, Fulton Bank, WellSpan Health, American Music Theatre, Orthopedic Associates of Lancaster, Barley Snyder Attorneys, Cargas Systems, Jones Family of Dealerships, M&T Bank and other local supporters.

For more information about American Heart Association events in Lancaster County, visit www.heart.org/lancaster.

Northeast PA Celebrates Nine Survivors at The Go Red for Women Luncheon

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Companies, organizations, families, and friends from the Northeast PA community gathered on Friday, November 15th at The Northeast PA Go Red for Women Luncheon. Julie Sidoni, anchor at WNEP-TV, emceed … Read more

STEM Goes Red Encourages Young Philadelphia School District Students to Explore Opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math

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Although women fill close to half of all the jobs in the U.S. economy, they hold less than 25% of jobs in science, technology, engineering & mathematics (STEM).  The American Heart Association, a science-based organization, strives to make significant changes to these statistics by empowering more women to seek careers in the sciences. In order to move medical breakthroughs forward, more women need a seat at the table, making significant contributions to the advancement of women’s healthcare.

As an extension of the Go Red for Women movement, which empowers communities to build a sustainable culture of health, the American Heart Association has created STEM Goes Red, a movement to encourage young women’s interests in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and explore careers in those industries. Students from the Philadelphia School District will hear from inspiring leaders from our community – including Dr. William Hite, School District of Philadelphia Superintendent and STEM Goes Red Chair Amy Novak, Project Executive, Torcon.

STEM Goes Red aims to prepare female students for the nearly eight million science, technology, engineering and math jobs available worldwide. Not only are American students generally unprepared to fill these roles, just three in 100 female undergraduate students continue to work in STEM fields after graduating. The American Heart Association is committed to building a brighter future, stopping heart disease before it starts, and paving the way to healthier communities. Innovation and big thinking require young, emerging students – both men and women – who are committed to making change happen.

STEM Goes Red will host 100 ninth and tenth grade students from the Philadelphia School District for a day-long event to empower young women to explore STEM outside the classroom. Students will gain first-hand experience and connect with vibrant community leaders. STEM Goes Red Event Chair, Amy Novak, who holds degrees in engineering, architecture and business will inspire students to pursue areas of STEM.

 “I look forward to encouraging these young women to pursue what challenges them, makes them happy and contributes to the development of our modern society,” says Ms. Novak. “More women at the table means more bright minds pursuing complex solutions for today’s environmental, healthcare and engineering problems,” continued Novak.

Students will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on breakout sessions with some of Philadelphia’s leading organizations, such as Independence Blue Cross, Pershing, Penn Medicine and Oracle. Students will also participate in a speed mentoring session led by female leaders from companies and organizations including: Nutrisystem; Temple University; Oracle; Vertex; and M&T Bank.

STEM Goes Red will take place at Penn State at the Navy Yard 4960 S 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 1911on Tuesday, November 13th from 8:30 am – 2:30 pm