The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, is going “beyond the table” to further the commitment of the annual Greater Columbus Heart and Stroke Ball. Anchored in a new year-round activation, Heart of Columbus is focused on taking action to target priority areas of blood pressure and CPR education, reducing risk in women, nutrition security, and mental well-being. The campaign is chaired by Melody Trimble, CEO of St. Francis-Emory Healthcare. 

"Our vision for "Heart of Columbus " is to expand the mission of the traditional Heart Ball to move “beyond the gala table,” by focusing on the COVID magnified struggles of our neighbors, the impact on first responders and the medical community, and touch as many hearts as possible by supporting the American Heart Association. By addressing health inequities, funding life-saving research, and providing critical resources, we are assisting and supporting our neighbors with needs that have been made worse by the pandemic,” said CEO of St. Francis-Emory Healthcare and Chair of Heart of Columbus Campaign, Melody Trimble.

Heart of Columbus officially launched in a Zoom kick-off call on November 17^TH.

Gwendolyn Johnson, Administrator of Columbus Cardiology Associates, P.C, was announced as the Heart Ball Chair. The Heart Ball experience is slated for April 2021 and will celebrate achievements while continuing to bring awareness to the mission.

The Campaign Kickoff call was attended by community leaders, executives, and volunteers for the mission.  The event featured remarks from Heart Ball Chair, Gwen Johnson and Heart Raffle Chair, Tiffany Butterfield (Mercedes-Benz of Columbus).

 The Chair shared with Zoom call attendees that they have already achieved $51,643.00 of the $316,000 campaign goal. Sponsorships have already been committed by St. Francis-Emory Healthcare, Columbus Cardiology Associates, P.C., and Georgia Power.

“The mission of the Heart Association is truly the heart of everything we do. Being a relentless force for longer, healthier lives for everyone is something I believe we can all support.  

By taking the Heart Ball “beyond the table”, we will bring the work of the American Heart Association to life by focusing on the mission-critical work being done within our community. With heart disease as the No. 1 killer of Americans, and stroke as our No. 1 debilitating disease, there is a critical need for support from businesses, organizations and individuals. We must be able to draw attention to these issues and implement strategies that can improve and save lives within our community,” said Karen Preston, Development Director for American Heart Association in Columbus.

The on-going American Heart Association campaign will feature multiple touchpoints throughout the year and culminate with a Heart Ball experience in April 2021. Those interested in joining in the Heart of Columbus campaign or making a pledge should visithttp://greatercolumbusgaheartball.heart.org/.