ATLANTA, November 6, 2023 — The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health, is working with Atlanta construction companies to raise awareness about heart disease and stroke, which disproportionately affect those working in the construction sector.

On Thursday, November 9 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., the Atlanta Hard Hats with Heart event will host general contractors, their peers, and sub-contractors at Pour Taproom Midtown to network with construction, design, and healthcare industry leaders while supporting a common goal— reducing heart disease and stroke and promoting total well-being.

Thousands of individuals in the Atlanta area are currently employed in the construction sector and adults in the construction industry have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease compared to other industries based on lifestyle factors. Together, the American Heart Association and leaders within the construction industry are working to address health concerns for some of Atlanta’s top employers. This year, Hard Hats with Heart is led by volunteer Justin Kanitz, project director for Burns & McDonnell.

“The construction industry is disproportionately challenged when it comes to overall health and well-being which is why the American Heart Association launched the Hard Hats with Heart campaign,“ said Kanitz. “With so much growth and development happening in and around Atlanta, there has never been a better time to raise awareness about this issue.  The health and wellbeing of our employees and their families is paramount, and I am excited to collaborate with other leaders in the industry to create a healthier future for the metro Atlanta community.”

Hard Hats with Heart is a part of the American Heart Association’s Heart Challenge program which is designed to help companies positively impact employee overall health and wellbeing. The program is anchored in a series of customizable workplace events that inspire employees to be more engaged, reconnect with colleagues, be physically active and support a great cause.

Hard Hats with Heart is sponsored by Burns & McDonnell, Comcast Business, Pike Electric, R.R. Cassidy Inc., Young Management and Consulting, Service Electric Company, Fairway Electric, Inc., Black and Veatch/Overland Contracting, S&W Excavating and Grading, SAM Companies, Manhattan Construction Group, Proline Contractors, Helton Electric, Holder Construction, Jollay Masonry, JE Dunn, Lee Electric, Miller Electric Company, WM Ventures, and Southern Company.

The funds raised from Hard Hats with Heart go towards research, advocacy, CPR training and to promote better health in support of the Association’s 2024 Health Equity Impact Goal, reducing barriers to health care access and quality. Visit www.heart.org/AtlantaHHWH to learn more.  

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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, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

 

For Media Inquiries:

Erin Thomas: 404-971-4715; erin.thomas@heart.org

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