American Heart Association’s 2023 Benefit Raises Record $1 Million

Portland, OR. The American Heart Association’s 2023 Heart Ball at the Hyatt Regency brought together hundreds of people and raised a record $1,026,607. Funds raised will support the work of the American Heart Association Heart of Oregon & SW Washington 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 is diagnosed with hypertension, the leading cause of cardiovascular disease and stroke. “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 focused on engaging community leaders in making a significant impact on health equity and the mission of the American Heart Association. The ball marks a moment to reflect, honor and celebrate the progress made toward equitable health through the determination, dedication, and passion of all community members who support the campaign. A highlight of the evening featured the story of 8-year-old Will Rasay, a heart hero. Will is thriving today because of the research funded by the American Heart Association. Will and his family were special guests of honor.

“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 healthcare 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.

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 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 onheart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.