PORTLAND, March 2, 2023 — The American Heart Association’s 2023 Heart of Oregon & SW Washington Heart Ball held Saturday, February 25 at the Hayat Regency Portland brought hearts together and raised a record, $1,026,607. Funds will support the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association to fight heart disease and stroke with a specific focus on addressing high blood pressure, CPR education, nutrition security, tobacco and the youth vaping crisis.
One in four Oregon residents are diagnosed with hypertension, the leading cause of cardiovascular disease and stroke. It is imperative that the Heart of Oregon & SW Washington campaign raises critical funds to continue investing in innovative research and bold initiatives to improve cardiovascular and brain health for future generations.
“Whether it’s teaching CPR in the community, providing education and awareness of heart disease or funding research for treatments, the American Heart Association is devoted to fighting cardiovascular disease. I am delighted to support this cause and celebrate the achievements of the Heart of Oregon & SW Washington campaign,” said Mason Evans, President & CEO, JH Kelly.
The Heart Ball was a culmination of the Heart of Oregon & SW Washington, a year-round campaign relentlessly focused on engaging community leaders in making a significant impact in health equity and the mission of the American Heart Association. The ball marks a special moment to reflect, honor and celebrate the progress made towards equitable health through the determination, dedication and passion of all community members who support the campaign.
A highlight of the evening featured the incredible story of 8-year-old Will Rasay, a heart hero. Will is thriving today because of the lifesaving research funded by the American Heart Association. Will and his family were special guests of honor.
It takes a team to address health issues to give all community members fair chance at a healthy life. These members of the Executive Leadership Team gave their time and resources to help make an extraordinary impact in saving lives: Mason Evans, JH Kelly president and CEO; Brian Johnston, Dallas Glass CEO; Travis Baker, Andersen Construction president and COO; Shon DeVries, Propel Insurance sales executive; Tom Larkin, Sokol Larkin partner; Nima Darabi, Hoffman Construction vice president; Tim Loy, Mallory Safety & Supply president; Eric Grasberger, Stoel Rives member; Josh Condon, Howard S Wright project executive; Cynthia Cameron, HUB International employee benefits vice president; Julian Allen, McKinstry Oregon construction business development; Steve Fein, Moss Adams regional managing partner.
“The Heart of Oregon & SW Washington campaign is one of the American Heart Association’s largest generators of funds for research and education about cardiovascular disease and stroke. The success of Heart Ball ensures that tremendous breakthroughs continue to happen,” said Nick Brodnicki, American Heart Association executive director for Oregon and southwest Washington. “Thank you to all of our advocates, volunteers and sponsors for championing equitable health and bold solutions for a world of longer, healthier lives in Oregon and southwest Washington.”
The Heart of Oregon & SW Washington campaign and the Heart Ball support the Association’s 2024 Health Equity Impact Goal, which aims to reduce barriers to health care access and quality. The American Heart Association is the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all. For more information on how to support the Association visit heart.org/oregon.
The Heart of Oregon & SW Washington Heart Ball was sponsored by JH Kelly, Hoffman Construction Company, OHSU Health, UA290/PMCA. A full list of sponsors can be seen at pdxheartball.heart.org.
Editor’s Note: Heart Ball photos are available on our Facebook page.
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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, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
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