CHEYENNE, Wyo., Aug. 12, 2024 – The American Heart Association, celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service, recently recognized Sam Gardner, American Heart Association community impact director and a leader of HeartCorps, for her work to improve health equity in her community and beyond.

Gardner, who lives in Cheyenne, received the HeartCorps Field Supervisor of the Year Award for her commitment to creating awareness about heart disease and improving the health of all Wyomingites regardless of where they live. She manages/mentors a staff of five.

The HeartCorps Field Supervisor of the Year Award is the pinnacle of achievement for field staff, highlighting those who not only inspire their members but also embody the values and mission of HeartCorps in every action they take, said Gardner’s supervisor, Dr. Jennifer Conner, vice president of rural health for the SouthWest Region for the American Heart Association.

“Sam exemplifies unwavering dedication and profound impact across the state of Wyoming,” said Conner. “Her commitment to her service members is unparalleled; she has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure their well-being and success.”

Gardner was recognized during a virtual celebration of service July 26.

What is HeartCorps?

The American Heart Association is a Public Health AmeriCorps grantee and launched HeartCorps in 2022. HeartCorps is a paid service opportunity for those interested in public health careers that drive health equity in rural America. Service members receive on-site experience at partner host sites and offer training in Association programs like cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), blood pressure screening, and nutrition awareness. Service members are also able to tailor programs to fit the unique needs of the communities they serve.

Why HeartCorps?

Nearly half of all Americans have high blood pressure, and many don’t know they have it. Uncontrolled high blood pressure is a silent killer that causes unnecessary and inequitable disease, disability and death. It can cause heart attacks, heart failure, stroke and other serious conditions.

Under-resourced communities and those living in rural areas face the highest death rates due to hypertension. Making matters worse, rural communities face a critical shortage of health care professionals, including public health workers, negatively impacting rural residents' care.

The American Heart Association is committed to addressing these inequities and improving blood pressure control and cardiovascular health in rural communities throughout the U.S.

Learn more about HeartCorps at heart.org/heartcorps.

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About AmeriCorps
AmeriCorps, the federal agency for volunteerism and national service, provides opportunities for Americans to serve their country domestically, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, improve lives and communities, and strengthen civic engagement. Each year, the agency invests more than $800 million in grants for local nonprofit, community, tribal, and state organizations; places more than 250,000 AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers in intensive service roles; and empowers millions more to serve as long-term, short-term, or one-time volunteers. Learn more at AmeriCorps.gov.

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 or X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.  

For Media Inquiries

Cyd King: M 479.263.8473; cyd.king@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org