Change. It can take time. And it’s not always easy. But change is good. Just ask the 2023 CSRA Leaders of Impact class. They are changemakers. Along with leaders from 150 communities across the U.S., they are supporting the work of the American Heart Association to create change that saves lives

Leaders of Impact represent bright leaders in our community who are dedicated to making a lasting impact on the health of their neighbors. Each year individuals are nominated to be a part of this initiative because of their passion and drive to make a difference. These nominees reach out to their networks to amplify the mission and fuel the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association.

“We are thrilled to have these leaders join us in our relentless efforts for a world of longer, healthier lives,” said Ansley Howze, American Heart Association, Executive Director. “Cardiovascular disease remains a top killer in the CSRA. That’s why it’s critical for us to engage volunteers who are passionate about making a lasting impact on their community”.

The Leaders of Impact initiative is just one part of the Heart of the CSRA campaign that goes beyond the ballroom and onto the block, bringing the work of the American Heart Association to life and culminating at the annual CSRA Heart Ball celebration on February 9^th, 2024. The campaign is relentlessly focused on standing for all by driving equitable health for every member of our community.

How are they making changes?

Beginning on World Heart Day, September 29, CSRA Leaders of Impact nominees will work to raise funds while engaging their networks in opportunities to directly impact the health of our community. Funds raised will support the American Heart Association’s 2024 Health Equity Impact Goal which aims to advance cardiovascular health for all, including identifying and removing barriers to 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, nutrition security, and cardiac emergency response.

What changes are needed?

Healthier lives for everyone is the goal, and even small victories matter. These are just a few things that the American Heart Association would like to see improved:

• Heart disease and stroke are the first and fifth leading causes of death in the United States.[1]

• Smoking kills nearly half a million Americans each year, and it’s one of the most preventable causes of death and disease.[2]

• Historically, people of color, including Black and Hispanics/Latinx people, have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) largely due to social factors.

  • For example, cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death for Americans – About 60% of adult Black men and women have CVD.[3]

• It's estimated that about 1 in 10 households in the U.S. experienced food insecurity in 2020.[4]

• Nearly 50% of Americans have high blood pressure, or hypertension, and only 25% of those with high blood pressure have it under control.[5]

• During a cardiac emergency that occurs outside of a medical setting, bystanders only perform CPR 46% of the time.[6]

Thanks to supporters, the American Heart Association has created meaningful change. As a leader in heart and brain health, the Association continues to bring innovative science and research to life in our local communities, strive for equitable health for all, and help people throughout the country learn how to live healthier lives.

Why do they push for change?

Local 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:

• Samantha Parker, Commercial Risk Advisor, MAI Risk Advisors
• Stan Whitlock, GISA Vice President, Georgia Independent School Association

For more information on the Leaders of Impact campaign or information on how to support the American Heart Association, visit the website here.