Indiana woman second in nation in fundraising campaign
INDIANAPOLIS, Dec. 11, 2023 – Indiana’s Jennifer Osei-Abebrese-Heltsley finished second in the country in a recent fundraising campaign benefiting the American Heart Association.
Osei-Abebrese-Heltsley, the design and construction program director with Indiana University Health, raised more than $82,000 during the seven-week “Leaders of Impact” campaign that concluded on Nov. 15. Community leaders in more than 150 cities participated in the campaign, including six in Central Indiana.
“We’re extremely proud and grateful for Jennifer’s support of the American Heart Association,” said Amanda Mills, executive director of the American Heart Association in metropolitan Indianapolis. “Money raised during this campaign will further our efforts to drive equitable health for all throughout this region. She’s an inspiring example of how one person can make a big impact on the lives of others.”
Osei-Abebrese-Heltsley was nominated by Jim Mladucky, the vice president of design and construction for IU Health, who was the chair of the 2023 Indianapolis Heart & Stroke Ball.
“Jennifer’s commitment to the Indianapolis community is remarkable,” Mladucky said. “A tireless, optimistic member of my team, I knew Jennifer would fully commit to the AHA’s effort of leading the way to making Indianapolis and Central Indiana residents healthier.”
“When I was presented with an opportunity to bring awareness to an organization that brings a multi-pronged attack to promote heart health and living longer, healthier lives, I jumped at the chance,” Osei-Abebrese-Heltsley said. “The American Heart Association touches so many lives through their research, education and advocacy. I knew, that through them, I could have a meaningful and lasting impact by trying to connect my resources and relationships that I have fostered over the years with the incredible AHA organization and their life-saving mission.”
The American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, invests in community health, innovative research and bold initiatives that save and improve lives. Funds raised through Leaders of Impact will support the Association’s 2024 Impact Goal which aims to advance cardiovascular health for all, including identifying and removing barriers to health care access and quality. In Indianapolis, the Association is specifically focused on nutrition security and high blood pressure.
Leaders of Impact launched on Sept. 29, World Heart Day, and culminated on Nov. 15, National Philanthropy Day. Each nominee’s participation focused on opportunities to be a changemaker with a shared purpose to raise the critical awareness, action and fund the mission of the American Heart Association.
Others local nominees included:
- Becky Halon
- Stacia Murphy
- Cary Pyle
- Kiley Wanecke
- Brian Weaver
Leaders of Impact is held annually as part of the Indianapolis Heart & Stroke Ball. The 2024 Heart & Stroke Ball will be held on Friday, April 19 at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown.
For more information about Leaders of Impact and a list of all the 2023 nominees, please visit www.heart.org/indyheartball.
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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:
Tim Harms, tim.harms@heart.org, 317-732-4714
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
