Where someone lives should not dictate how long they live. Two Rochester leaders are joining the American Heart Association’s Leaders of Impact campaign in an effort to combat health inequities in the Rochester area. Studies show[1] a nine-year life expectancy gap in zip codes across Rochester. According to the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, this can be caused by social determinants of health and other barriers to achieving health equity for all communities — factors that include structural racism[2] and access to quality healthcare[3].
The Leaders of Impact initiative engages community leaders across 150 cities to take part in a seven-week challenge to improve health by raising awareness and funds to support the life-saving work of the American Heart Association.
Shane Grant
Rochester nominees were selected to take part in Leaders of Impact because of their passion and drive to make a difference. This year’s nominees are:
Tim Meehan
Shane Grant, managing director of operations, Dixon Schwabl + Company, a marketing company
Tim Meehan, project manager, Crosby Brownlie Inc., a mechanical contractor
Beginning on World Heart Day, September 29, nominees will work to raise funds while engaging their networks in opportunities to directly impact the health of Rochester. Funds raised will support the American Heart Association’s 2024 Impact Goal which aims to advance cardiovascular health for all, including identifying and removing barriers to equitable health care access and quality. Currently, the American Heart Association is working with local stakeholders and community members to address barriers and inequities around hypertension control, nutrition security, and tobacco and vaping.
“We are thrilled to have these leaders join us in our relentless efforts for a world of longer, healthier lives” said American Heart Association Rochester Board President, Ann Leonhardt Caprio, DNP, RN, ANP-BC, FAHA, program coordinator at UR Medicine Comprehensive Stroke Center, University of Rochester Medical Center, Strong Memorial Hospital. “Cardiovascular disease remains a top killer in Rochester. That’s why it’s critical for us to engage volunteers who are passionate about making a lasting impact on their community.”
The Rochester Leaders of Impact winner will be announced on National Philanthropy Day, November 15 and will be celebrated at the Rochester Heart Ball on May 13th at the Hyatt Regency Rochester.
For more information on the Leaders of Impact Initiative or to support one of this year’s nominees visit RochesterHeartBall.heart.org and click on the Leaders of Impact tab in the upper right corner.