HOLLYWOOD, Fla., Jan. 24, 2023 — The American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, is pleased to announce Marisol Garcia as its new Greater Miami/ Fort Lauderdale executive director.
Bringing over 18 years of non-profit experience, Marisol will oversee a development team tasked with an annual fundraising goal of more than $5 million. She will also be responsible for the organization’s initiatives in the Greater Miami/Fort Lauderdale community, including advocating for healthier policies and laws, improving community health through avenues such as food pantries, promoting Association-funded research, and increasing awareness of heart disease and stroke.
“Marisol’s passion and drive along with her strategic thinking will position her well as she works with her team to achieve the next level of success in South Florida,” said Beth Mourelatos, senior vice president, American Heart Association. “With more than 18 years of experience in organizational fundraising and relationship management, we are thrilled to have her on our team.”
Prior to joining the American Heart Association, Marisol served as managing director of development at City Year Miami, a non-profit organization dedicated to creating a positive, responsive and welcoming learning environment where students can thrive.
Before that, she spent two years with the American Diabetes Association in South Florida where she managed the annual South Florida Step Out Walk achieving national recognition for ranking No. 1 for revenue. She also served as senior development officer for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami, managing a six-person development team with a focus on fundraising growth.
“Though we have made great progress in fighting heart disease and stroke, they still remain the number one and four killers of South Floridians,” Marisol said. “Here in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, we have tremendous health disparities among our population. Nearly 50 percent of our citizens have high blood pressure, and thousands live in food deserts without easy access to fresh fruits and vegetables. I’m excited and thrilled for the opportunity to work with our staff and community partners to address these opportunities.”
A native of Miami, FL, Garcia attended Miami-Dade College.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a leading force for a world of longer, healthier lives. With nearly a century of lifesaving work, the Dallas-based association is dedicated to ensuring equitable health for all. We are a trustworthy source empowering people to improve their heart health, brain health and well-being. We collaborate with numerous organizations and millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, advocate for stronger public health policies and share lifesaving resources and information. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Name: Gabby Yibirin, gabby.yibirin@heart.org
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org