American Heart Association Heart raises over $450,000 towards education and research of cardiovascular disease and stroke
The 2023 Southern New England Heart Ball brought hearts together to save lives and strive for equitable health for everyone living in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts. With nearly $450,000 raised during the campaign year, funds will support the live saving work of the American Heart Association to fight heart disease and stroke with a specific focus on health equity in Southern New England.
In Southern New England, life expectancy can differ by as much as 14 years for people living just a few miles apart. For instance, in Jamestown life expectancy is 82 years, whereas in Providence County it is 74 years.
“When my family signed on to be the 2023 American Heart Association Heart Ball chairs, we did not expect to have the experience that we had,” shared Jaime Tasca. “It was a year of learning, fundraising, and community involvement by working side by side with the Association. It was eye opening to see the impact the Heart Association has and their real commitment to bring education and healthy change to our RI communities. The Tasca Family is incredibly proud to have been part of this journey over the past year.”
The event was a culmination of the Heart of Southern New England, an American Heart Association campaign centered around every individual to address critical issues and drive work to equitably improve and save lives for everyone everywhere. The Heart Ball marks a special moment in time to reflect, honor and celebrate the progress made through the determination and passion of all who support the Heart of Southern New England.
“We’re so thankful for the tireless dedication of our volunteer leaders, like the Tascas, and all of our sponsors and guests who drive our mission forward for a world where all people can, not only, survive but thrive!” said Jennifer Hauck, Senior Vice President of Development at the American Heart Association.
Attendees enjoyed a Moonlight and Magic theme, with a pre-event cocktail reception featuring magicians, as well as a silent auction before transitioning to the glittering starry night grand ballroom for dinner. They were joined by hosts of the evening, former Miss Rhode Island USA 2017, Nicole Pallozzi, and WPRI news anchor, Shiina LoSciuto. Captain John Potvin, Director of Emergency Medical Services for East Providence Fire Department and American Heart Association of Southern New England Board President was awarded the 2023 Yvonne Heredia Lifetime Achievement Award for his dedication to improving the health of Rhode Islanders. Supporters raised their bid cards during a rousing live auction led by auctioneer, Paul Florez, that featured exclusive sports experiences and a signed Taylor Swift guitar. To view full event Facebook Album please click here.
During the Open Your Heart appeal, the Jenness family of Prudence Island shared their daughter Corey’s story, and the audience joined a happy birthday rendition led by Miss Rhode Island America 2023, Caroline Parente. Watch Corey’s story below:
The stage program concluded with the Tasca family announcing that Larry Aubin has accepted the role of Second Century Chairs for the 2024 Heart of Southern New England campaign. 2024 will mark the 100th year of the American Heart Association.
The Heart of Southern New England and the Heart Ball support the Association’s 2024 Health Equity Impact Goal, which aims to reduce barriers to health care access and quality. The American Heart Association is the world’s leading nonprofit organization focuses on heart and brain health.
The 2023 Heart Ball was sponsored by the following businesses. Life is why sponsor: CVS Health. Other sponsors included :Tasca, KPMG, JPMorgan, Marquis Health, Pranzi Catering, Dattco, Bowerman Construction. Table Sponsors included: Assumption University, Beacon Mobility, Cabrini Films, Coastal Corp, Navigant Credit Union, Paul Masse Chevrolet, Pensionmark Meridien, Total Customer Connect, Warwick Hotel Associates. Media Sponsors included WPRI 12, Providence Business News, and Montage Media.
For more information on how to support the American Heart Association email [email protected] or click here
For Media Inquiries:
Samantha Bowen, Director of Marketing & Communications: 401-228-2324; [email protected]
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org