ATLANTA, Feb. 23, 2023 — The American Heart Association’s 2023 Heart of Atlanta Gala held Saturday, February 18 at the St. Regis Atlanta brought hearts together and raised more than $1 million dollars. Funds will support the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association to fight heart disease and stroke with a specific focus on addressing high blood pressure, CPR education, nutrition security, tobacco and the youth vaping crisis.
With 46% of metro Atlanta residents being diagnosed with hypertension - the leading cause of cardiovascular disease and stroke, it’s imperative that the Heart of Atlanta campaign raises critical funds to continue investing in innovative research and bold initiatives to improve cardiovascular and brain health for future generations.
“Whether it’s teaching CPR in the community, providing education and awareness of heart disease or funding research for treatments, the American Heart Association is devoted to fighting cardiovascular disease and I was delighted to support this cause and witness the achievements of the Heart of Atlanta campaign,” said DeRetta Rhodes, Ph.D.,executive vice president and chief culture officer of the Atlanta Braves and 2023 chairwoman of the Heart of Atlanta.
The gala was a culmination of the Heart of Atlanta, a year-round campaign relentlessly focused on engaging community leaders in making a significant impact in health equity and the mission of the American Heart Association. The Heart of Atlanta Gala marks a special moment to reflect, honor and celebrate the progress made towards equitable health through the determination, dedication and passion of all community members who support the Heart of Atlanta campaign.
The City of Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens was the guest of honor for this year’s event and the 2023 Heart of Atlanta honoree was Owner and Chairman of Blank Family of Businesses, Arthur M. Blank. Also, the incredible survivor story of 12-year-old Bentley, a heart and stroke hero, was shared during the event. They were joined by hosts of the evening, Jorge Estevez and Lori Wilson from WSB-TV and 325 local guests with musical entertainment by the dynamic band, Gritz and Jelly Butter.
The Heart of Atlanta Gala was sponsored by Accuhealth Technologies, Arch Insurance, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, Atlanta Braves Foundation, BlackRock, Deluxe, Dragon Con, Genuine Parts Company, Georgia-Pacific, Greenberg Traurig, Kaiser Permanente, Key2 Consulting, LocumTenens.com, Protiviti, Robert Half, Southern Company, Truist, and Wellstar Health System.
“The Heart of Atlanta campaign is one of the American Heart Association’s largest generators of funds for research and education about cardiovascular disease and stroke, and the success of our gala ensures that tremendous breakthroughs continue to happen,” said Carla Smith, senior vice president and region executive director of the American Heart Association, Atlanta. “Thank you to all of our advocates, volunteers, and sponsors for supporting with heart and championing equitable health and bold solutions for a world of longer, healthier lives in metro Atlanta.”
The Heart of Atlanta campaign and the Heart of Atlanta Gala 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 focused on heart and brain health for all. For more information on how to support the Association visit heart.org/atlanta.
Editor’s Note: Heart Ball photos available upon request. Photo credit to Capturing the Miracle Photography
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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: 214-706-1173
Erin Thomas; Erin.Thomas@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
