ANAMOSA, Iowa, August 7, 2024 — The American Heart Association, celebrating 100 years of service as a global force for healthier lives for all, in collaboration with Public Health AmeriCorps, is excited to launch the HeartCorps initiative in Anamosa, Iowa. Anamosa resident Lisa Heitz leads the local efforts for the program, which aims to advance health equity in rural communities.

The cause is personal for Heitz, who was just 40 years old when she experienced a heart attack. But she has never let that stop her from doing what she loves – help others. Heitz previously served as an activities director at an assisted living facility. More recently, she provided help and counsel to a neighbor who was recovering from their own heart attack.

Now, Heitz continues her passion by offering cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training to organizations and businesses in and around Anamosa.

“My main focus right now is CPR and trying to get the word out that anyone can do it, all you need to do is to learn,” Heitz said. “A goal of mine is to train as many people as possible in my community in Hands-Only CPR.”

In addition to offering CPR training, Heitz will also spread awareness about food insecurity. According to the Food Bank of Iowa, nearly 11% of Iowans and 15.4% of Iowa children face food insecurity.

“There are existing programs in the community to combat food insecurity, many people just don’t know about them,” Heitz said. “We want to raise awareness of those resources, like free kid’s meals in school and food pantries. There are also places people can go – like churches – to get clothes and household goods.”

Anamosa isn’t the only city to benefit from HeartCorps' goal to improve health equity. Heitz hosted a Hands-Only CPR training at the Monticello Library on Aug. 13.

The HeartCorps program focuses on the health and well-being of rural areas throughout the state. Under-resourced communities and those living in rural areas face the highest death rates due to high blood pressure, or hypertension. Making matters worse, rural communities face a critical shortage of healthcare professionals, including public health workers, which negatively impacts the care rural residents receive.

“HeartCorps offers a tremendous opportunity to help improve health in rural communities while also empowering Members to grow their professional skills toward a future career,” said Tim Nikolai, community impact director for the American Heart Association, Midwest. “We are excited to see that happening in Anamosa and across Iowa.”

In addition to Heitz in Anamosa, HeartCorps members are actively serving the communities of Ames and Atlantic. The program is seeking to fill open positions in Centerville, Davenport and West Des Moines. To learn more about HeartCorps and apply to become a service member, visit heart.org/HeartCorps.

 

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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 a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact, our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

 

For Media Inquiries:
Chrissy Meyer; Chrissy.meyer@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org