DENVER, Oct. 6, 2023 – Where someone lives should not dictate how long they live. Two Denver leaders are joining the American Heart Association’s Leaders of Impact campaign in an effort to combat health inequities in the community. Studies show a four-year life expectancy gap in some zip codes across Denver. According to the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, this can be caused by social determinants of health and other barriers to achieving health equity for all communities -- factors that include structural racism and access to quality healthcare.
The Leaders of Impact initiative engages community leaders across 150 cities to take part in a seven-week challenge to improve health by raising awareness and funds to support the life-saving work of the American Heart Association.
Denver nominees were selected to take part in Leaders of Impact because of their passion and drive to make a difference. This year’s nominees are:
Kathleen Phillips, financial adviser with Five Peaks Capital Group, LLC
Steve Rice, associate vice president, Arcadis
Beginning on World Heart Day, September 29, nominees kicked off their fundraising campaigns, while engaging their networks in opportunities including, education on CPR and heart healthy lifestyle changes to directly impact the health of Denver. Funds raised will support the American Heart Association’s 2024 Impact Goal which aims to advance cardiovascular health for all, including identifying and removing barriers to equitable health care access and quality. Currently, the American Heart Association is working with local stakeholders and community members to address barriers and inequities around blood pressure control, nutrition security, CPR education and tobacco use.
The Denver Leaders of Impact winner will be announced following the campaign culmination on National Philanthropy Day, November 15 and will be celebrated at the Heart Ball in February 2024.
For more information on the Leaders of Impact Initiative or to support one of this year’s nominees visit Denver Leader of Impact Fall 2023 - Heart Ball - American Heart Association.
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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:
Name: Lyndsey Albright
Email: Lyndsey.Albright@heart.org
Phone: 303.941.5460
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org