Latest news with #HeartWalk
Business Journals
08-08-2025
- Health
- Business Journals
How one tech CEO turned a personal mission into impactful corporate philanthropy
Inspired by daughter Dani's experimental heart surgery, Erich Sanchack and the American Heart Association are aiming for global impact. Sanchack's journey with the American Heart Association began in 2010, when his company served as chair of the Heart Walk in Washington, D.C. The chair asked him to be the project lead for the event, where they raised record-breaking funds through a record-breaking turnout! At the time, it seemed like just another successful corporate philanthropy initiative. Little did Sanchack know that the money raised at that 2010 event would go directly toward a grant sponsoring research development that would eventually save Dani's life. After experiencing chest pain at her gymnastics class, 12-year-old Dani was diagnosed with a heart defect that is usually found postmortem. Doctors told her family that she needed an incredibly rare type of open-heart surgery that had hardly ever been performed on live patients. Sanchack began researching surgeons who had specialized in this type of surgery and would be able to confidently perform it for Dani. After looking across the United States, Sanchack found a division of Johns Hopkins that had done research into an experimental surgery for exactly Dani's condition. The Johns Hopkins surgeons were able to save Dani's life. After she recovered, Sanchack and the rest of the family learned that the research program that made the surgery possible was funded by the American Heart Association. Sanchack began to focus his philanthropy and leadership around the Association's priorities of research, equitable health, and community investment. While they lived in Washington, D.C., Sanchack served on the American Heart Association-Greater Washington board of directors from 2013 and helped to raise millions of dollars in support of the mission by chairing the Heart Walk in a record-breaking year. Through personal fundraising projects leveraging their own rock band tours and corporate partnerships across the world, Erich has continued to be a true ambassador. 'Erich's leadership was a driving force behind some of the most successful fundraising efforts in our region,' said American Heart Association-Greater Washington Executive Director Soula Antoniou. 'His strategic vision helped us advance life-saving research and community health initiatives. The lasting impact of his work continues to shape our efforts here in Washington, D.C.' When Sanchack moved to Austin, Texas, he continued to direct his energies towards helping create a world of longer, healthier lives. Currently, as Chief Executive Officer of Salute, Sanchack leads on operational excellence and invests in Salute's corporate social responsibility programs, including their unique veterans recruitment program. More recently becoming a lifetime sponsor for the Sea Wolf Association, Sanchack's commitment to community projects is exemplary. For the data center industry itself, Salute is a leading provider of integrated and end-to-end lifecycle services worldwide. Now over 1,800 people strong, the company has appointed thousands of military veterans and continues to invest in this community. Sanchack's dedication to leadership and excellence extends to his role on the American Heart Association-Austin's board of directors. In that time, he has contributed to Heart's brand awareness through his genuine appreciation for the vital support the American Heart Association provides to those facing potentially life-threatening situations. Sanchack is passionate about the Association's community investment initiatives and creating a direct impact in Austin. Beyond that, though, he is invested in Austin itself – and not just in the business world. Sanchack hosts a private music festival fundraiser each year to directly benefit organizations like the American Heart Association-Austin. That fundraiser features his rock band, That's What She Said, which regularly hits the streets in Austin and features Sanchack himself, a passionate musician, on electric guitar as well as his daughter Maddie on drums and vocals. 'At its heart, Austin is a city of music,' said Sanchack. 'Connecting music and philanthropic leadership is one of the main ways we can make a tangible difference in the community.' 'Without Erich, I think that Austin would be a very different place,' said Brad Wisdom, Executive Director of the American Heart Association-Austin. 'His strategic vision and dedication have helped us expand critical programs, raise significant funds, and strengthen our outreach to under-served communities. Erich has played a key role in shaping Austin's heart health landscape by bringing people together, championing our local initiatives, and ensuring that more families have access to life-saving resources. His passion is truly inspiring.' A Vision for a Nation of Lifesavers Now, Sanchack is turning his vision to the future. The American Heart Association is seeking to turn a nation of bystanders into a Nation of Lifesavers by doubling the number of people who are able to perform CPR in the event of a cardiac emergency. Ninety percent of people who experience out-of-hospital cardiac emergencies die, but quickly-administered CPR can double or even triple their chances of survival. Sanchack is now on a mission to use cutting-edge CPR training machines to have 100% of his over-1,800 employees at Salute Mission Critical trained in CPR in the next two years – globally. This will create a company of lifesavers, but Sanchack hopes that the impact goes even further beyond the bounds of Salute. 'If I'm able to lead the charge to create a healthier world at Salute, other companies can, too,' said Sanchack. 'I call on all of my fellow executive leaders to reach out to your networks, speak to your friends, and develop a plan to make your companies 100% trained in CPR as well. With your help, we can make Austin the safest place in America to have a cardiac arrest. And then we can work together to make America the safest place in the world to have a cardiac arrest.' Erich Sanchack's impact on the Heart Association, Austin, Washington, D.C., and America itself is large through his unique ability to combine executive leadership and community investment. Through fundraising, advocacy, and leadership development, Sanchack exemplifies how executives can extend their leadership beyond boardrooms, driving transformational change in their communities. Thank you, Erich! IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS $5.5M raised for heart health 2016 and 2020 record-breaking years in DC and Austin respectively 12 countries impacted 1,800+ staff to be trained in CPR by 2026 Working with 90% of the world's leading data center providers, Salute has the network to promote the great work of the American Heart Association Leadership with Heart Since the American Heart Association's founding in 1924, deaths from cardiovascular diseases have been cut in half. And yet, there are still so many lives to be saved. The Association's work in Austin helps increase access to care, provide education to the community, and create a healthier Austin. Here are the leaders on the board of directors making that a reality. Dr. Matt Ashley Board President Centre for Neuro Skills, Chief Medical Officer Virginia Visser Board Chairperson Erik Day Giving Society Ambassador Dell, SVP, SMB Transformation Eric Gribble Leadership Development Chair DPR Construction, Healthcare Core Market Leader Dr. George Arnaoutakis UT Health, Chief, Div. Of Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery Dr. Srikant Das Texas Children's, Pediatric & Adult Congenital Cardiologist Dr. Caitlin Giesler The Heart Center for Women, Founder/Cardiologist Mark Hauerland H-E-B, Director of Grocery Merchandising & Receiving Fennis Ho Community Advocate David Huffstutler St. David's HealthCare, CEO Scott Macintosh Valterra Partners, Co-CEO Brett Mattens Austin Heart Hospital, CEO Jessica McMillen National Strategic Consultant, UTSA Erich Sanchack Salute Mission Critical, CEO Edgar Saucedo Norsan Media, President Nina Seely Legends Real Estate, Owner/Realtor Adam Sencenbaugh Haynes Boone, Managing Partner Meredith Wells Ascension, Vice President of Neuroscience Service Line For more information about the Nation of Lifesavers and the American Heart Association's work in Austin, click here. The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public's health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on socials at @AmericanHeartTX.
Business Journals
02-06-2025
- Health
- Business Journals
Leading with heart: How executives are championing a culture of wellness in the workplace
In a time when burnout is climbing and workplace well-being is under a microscope, one thing is clear: employees need more than lip service — they need leadership, connection and purpose. That's where the American Heart Association's Heart Challenge steps in. More than just a wellness initiative, it's a movement designed to bring out the best in companies and their people. A recent 2024 survey of U.S. office professionals uncovered a growing disconnect: while many companies promote wellness, employees don't always feel supported. Employees report fearing judgment for speaking up about burnout and many feel their leaders overlook warning signs. And when employees don't feel connected to their company's values, 72% say it makes their work even harder to manage.* expand That disconnect isn't just a morale issue — it's a health issue. Chronic workplace stress can raise the risk of serious conditions like heart disease and stroke. In fact, burnout has been found to be as detrimental as secondhand smoke. Preventing it requires more than self-care webinars and fruit bowls in the breakroom. It calls for a culture shift — and bold leadership. That's why the American Heart Association created Heart Challenge, a dynamic suite of initiatives — Hard Hats with Heart, Heart Walk and Executives with Heart — that empowers companies to engage their entire workforce. From the front lines to the C-suite, Heart Challenge invites everyone to step up for their own health while supporting the health of their community. Heart Challenge events are engaging and impactful, bridging five generations in the workplace through team building, physical activity and purpose-driven action. Companies customize their participation to align with their culture and goals, while employees benefit from increased connection, better health and a renewed sense of determination. One standout element of this broader initiative is Executives with Heart — a campaign specifically designed to inspire leadership from the top. This effort challenges senior leaders to be visible champions of health, set personal fundraising goals and rally their teams in support of heart and brain health. By doing so, executives don't just fund breakthrough science — they set the tone for their entire organization. 'Executives with Heart is not just a fundraising campaign — it's a leadership movement,' says James McAnally, vice president of GreenLake Management Services at Hewlett Packard Enterprise and 2025 Atlanta Executives with Heart chairperson. 'When leaders show up with compassion and conviction for causes like heart health, it strengthens the culture and deepens the trust employees have in their company.' expand McAnally sees it firsthand. By stepping into the spotlight and sharing their personal 'why,' leaders within the Atlanta community are fostering deeper engagement, supporting mental and physical health and uniting employees around a mission that matters. Heart disease and stroke remain leading causes of death, affecting 1 in 3 Americans. Every 34 seconds someone has a heart attack; every 40 seconds, a stroke. And for businesses, the economic toll is enormous — over $1 trillion in projected annual costs by 2035.* But the real cost is human. When employees are disconnected, disengaged or burned out, everyone loses. Heart Challenge provides a remedy: connection through community impact, wellness through movement and leadership through action. With support from the Association — including a dedicated staff partner, easy-to-use resources and success strategies — companies large and small are discovering how Heart Challenge can power up their people and strengthen their culture. Whether it's a CEO joining the Heart Walk, a construction crew participating in Hard Hats with Heart, or an executive team leading by example in Executives with Heart, one thing is certain: when companies lead with heart, employees thrive. Because at the end of the day, saving lives isn't just good business — it's how we build a better future, together. The American Heart Association is the nation's oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. Founded by six cardiologists in 1924 in Chicago, the organization now includes more than 40 million volunteers and supporters. The Association's mission is to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
New initiative delivers CPR education through ADP Mobile Solutions app to build Nation of Lifesavers™
ADP supports American Heart Association goal to prepare more workers to respond to cardiac emergencies DALLAS and ROSELAND, N.J., May 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With more than 10,000 cardiac arrests occurring annually in U.S. workplaces1, ADP, a global technology company providing human capital management (HCM) solutions, is supporting the American Heart Association to expand CPR education across the workforce. By integrating information about Hands-Only CPR training into the ADP Mobile Solutions app, the organizations are helping millions of employees nationwide be ready to act in an emergency. Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere — and immediate CPR can double or triple a person's chance of survival. Yet according to the American Heart Association, a global force changing the future of health of all, seven in 10 Americans say they feel powerless to act during a cardiac emergency2. Through this initiative, ADP, which pays one in six workers in the United States, is empowering its clients and associates with lifesaving education at scale. "Increasing access to modern, accessible CPR education is critical to saving more lives from cardiac arrest," said Nancy Brown, chief executive officer of the American Heart Association. "Through Nation of Lifesavers, we aim to double the survival rate from sudden cardiac arrest by 2030. With this support from ADP, we can bring lifesaving skills directly to the fingertips of millions of workers." The program, which is optional to clients, offers ADP Mobile Solutions users a simple two-step learning opportunity: watch a 60-second Hands-Only CPR video, then complete a four-question assessment. After completing the assessment, users receive a digital Nation of Lifesavers badge to recognize their commitment to helping save lives. Since piloting this feature in ADP Mobile Solutions in Fall 2024, more than 160,000 users have already engaged in the Hands-Only CPR mobile education, with the potential to reach the app's 14 million active monthly users, as the availability expands. "Every decision we make is centered on helping people thrive at work and in life," said Maria Black, president and CEO of ADP. "Through technology and human-centered innovation, we are proud to support the work of the American Heart Association in building a stronger chain of survival across the workplace." In addition to the mobile learning, ADP is hosting in-person Hands-Only CPR and automated external defibrillator (AED) training sessions at 18 of its office locations nationwide. The company aims to educate its associates on Hands-Only CPR and AED use through over 100 sessions in 2025 and early 2026. ADP's commitment to cardiac health extends beyond the office. For the past four years, ADP associates have also participated in American Heart Association Heart Walk events across the country to raise awareness and funds for heart health. Hands-Only CPR, which involves chest compressions without rescue breaths, is effective for teens and adults who experience sudden cardiac arrest. Immediate action — including the use of an AED when available — can dramatically increase the chance of survival.3 However, only half of workers can locate an AED at their workplace today, according to the Association. To learn more about how you can become part of the Nation of Lifesavers and help build a world where everyone is prepared to save a life, visit To view media assets including videos, B-roll and images, please click here. About ADP (NASDAQ: ADP)Designing better ways to work through cutting-edge products, premium services and exceptional experiences that enable people to reach their full potential. HR, Talent, Time Management, Benefits and Payroll. Informed by data and designed for people. Learn more at About the American Heart AssociationThe American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public's health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on on Facebook and X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. 1 American Heart Association AED Fact Sheet2 2024 CPR Perceptions Survey, conducted for the American Heart Association. Available upon request.3 Panchal AR, Bartos JA, Cabañas JG, Donnino MW, Drennan IR, Hirsch KG, Kudenchuk PJ, Kurz MC, Lavonas EJ, Morley PT, O'Neil BJ, Peberdy MA, Rittenberger JC, Rodriguez AJ, Sawyer KN, Berg KM; on behalf of the Adult Basic and Advanced Life Support Writing Group. Part 3: adult basic and advanced life support: 2020 American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care. Circulation. 2020;142(suppl 2):S366–S468. doi: 10.1161/CIR.0000000000000916 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE ADP, Inc. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Belfast Telegraph
23-04-2025
- General
- Belfast Telegraph
Lack of lighting along popular NI walking route is concerning residents, councillors warn
Causeway Coast and Glens Borough councillors have warned that a walking route in Coleraine might be unsafe after dark. The path, which runs along the River Bann between Christie Park and Castleroe, is a popular walking and running route. At this month's Leisure and Development Committee meeting, Sinn Fein councillor Niamh Archibald proposed that the council creates a feasibility study and option proposals, such as solar lighting in trees, to light the pathway. The motion added: 'This area is used by residents of all ages to exercise in a free and safe environment. Indeed, the pathway from Christie Park along the river was promoted as the Heart Walk and part of the Highway to Health.' Cllr Archibald added that, as a Coleraine representative, she had 'consistently heard concerns from residents about the lack of lighting along the path'. 'This riverside route is a valued and well-used community asset and provides residents of all ages with a free and accessible space to walk, run and connect with nature,' she continued. 'However, concerns have been raised about the absence of adequate lighting, particularly during the darker winter months, eliminating [people's] ability to use the path safely and confidently. 'Some residents have pointed out that the path becomes virtually unusable outside daylight hours in winter, because [they] can't run before 8am or after 4pm, as it's just too dark. 'Concerns around personal safety have also been raised, in particular at the junction where the bridge meets the underpass, where many people felt unsafe during the evening hours or when walking alone. 'Of course, any lighting solution should also be carefully designed to respect and protect any potential local wildlife, so options such as solar-powered, low-level or motion-activated lights could improve safety while minimising disruption to the natural environment.' Alliance Alderman Yvonne Boyle seconded the motion and noted that she was a councillor when the pathway was designated as a Heart Walk. She said the lighting would be especially beneficial for women, as it would alleviate safety concerns. Earlier this year, a public meeting was held in Coleraine after two disturbing incidents sparked concerns for women's safety in the area. Alderman Boyle added: 'In February, I attended a public meeting in Coleraine about women's safety, organised by Causeway Coast Women, at West Bann Development. 'Like many women, when I walk on my own along the river or in Somerset Park, I always need to be aware of my personal safety. 'The public meeting's aim was to raise awareness of this issue, to increase community communication and to bring forward practical solutions. And this is one practical solution that would achieve that.' DUP councillor and deputy mayor Tanya Stirling agreed that the issue of lighting along the pathway was 'often brought up [by] Coleraine constituents'. She concluded: 'Lighting in Christie Park plays a crucial role in enhancing the experience for all those who visit this popular area.' 'The footfall is significant and, especially during the evenings, it's essential that the park remains welcoming and safe for everyone.'
Yahoo
15-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
American Heart Association raises $125,000 with recent heart walk
WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWTI) – Saturday's North Country Heart Walk helped raise over $125,000 over the weekend. Hundreds of people gathered on Saturday, April 12 at Jefferson Community College, raising funds to further the American Heart Association's lifesaving mission. Is heart disease reversible? In addition to raising critical funds, the heart walk brought together heart disease and stroke survivors, as well as participants from dozens of local companies, to unite in the mission to save lives. Every walker who joined the event, every dollar donated, means more people trained in lifesaving CPR, more research and more lifesaving moments for everyone. Donations can be made until May 12 at The Heart Walk is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together. By supporting this year-round initiative, we're not just raising funds—we're equipping more people with lifesaving skills and making the North Country a stronger, healthier place. Our vision is for every home to be prepared to respond to a cardiac emergency, and we're grateful to everyone who helped us take a big step toward that goal. Rich Duvall, president & CEO of North Star Health Alliance and volunteer chairman of the Heart Walk During the event, the American Heart Association also presented Heartsaver Hero Awards to a group of employees from Kinney Drugs. When their coworker Darcy Kerr collapsed at the Gouverneur store a few weeks ago, employees took action to save her life. They called 911 and worked together to provide compressions, give breaths and talk with dispatchers. When EMTs arrived, they took over compressions and used an automated external defibrillator to shock Kerr's heart back into rhythm after several tries. She is recovering well and was able to attend the Heart Walk on Saturday. The Heartsaver Hero Award was presented to Dan Ragan, Brandi Romano and Becky Toomey. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
