Chicago, IL, Feb. 14, 2024 - Four Chicago teenagers are joining the American Heart Association to fight against heart disease and stroke through the first ever Chicago Teen of Impact initiative. This year’s nominees will work from Feb. 2 to April 4 to raise funds to support research and education to fight the No. 1 killer of Americans.

“Through events like STEM Goes Red, our Kids Heart Challenge and our various community impact initiatives, we heavily emphasize the importance of promoting health equity intergenerationally,” said Chicago executive director Brittany Walsh, “We are excited to introduce this initiative here in Chicago with a group of young adults whose far-reaching leadership skills will serve our mission well as we invest into the next generation of health equity change agents.”

Teen of Impact, a nationwide initiative, launched in over 30 cities across the country on National Wear Red Day, February 2. At the start of the campaign, hundreds of nominees nationwide embarked on a nine-week journey to help transform the health of others through education and fundraising. Each week, nominees participate in activities designed to create a culture of wellness and health equity. Activities may include educational events, learning and spreading the word about CPR, getting active, recruiting friends and family to participate in research, and more. Nominees also raise critical funds for the Chicago American Heart Association’s mission.

Chicago’s 2024 Teen of Impact Nominees are:

  • Evan Pope & Vivien Pope – Oak Park River Forest High School
  • Jay Manadan – Whitney Young High School
  • Shyla Sood – John Hersey High School

On April 4, one nominee will be named the Chicago 2024 Teen of Impact Winner. In addition to local market winners, one teen from across the country will be named the National Teen of Impact Winner.

“You’re truly never too young to start mobilizing your network and your community for better health. Our centennial theme is Bold Hearts, and I can’t think of a bolder thing to do than make strides toward raising awareness in your community by being part of the first ever Teen of Impact nominee class in Chicago,” said Samantha Netluch, director of development at the American Heart Association, Chicago.

While the large majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease continues to take the life of almost 1 in 3 people. In Illinois, risk factors that contribute to heart disease in young adults and teenagers include obesity and smoking. Heart disease is also the No. 1 killer of adults in Illinois.[1]

To learn more about the American Heart Association’s work in Chicago through Teen of Impact, visit http://www2.heart.org/ChicagoTOI.


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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:
Jorie Goins: Jorie.Goins@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org

 

[1] American Heart Association, “Illinois Fact Sheet,” Quality-Systems-of-Care-Illinois.pdf (heart.org)