Photography by Joe Putrock
Ask Amy Young, executive director of the American Heart Association (AHA) in the Capital Region and Upper Hudson Valley, what drives the organization forward, and she doesn’t hesitate.
“We are the nation’s oldest volunteer-led organization,” she says. “We’ve funded more than $6.1 billion in research since 1949, and our volunteers have made that possible.”
It’s a staggering figure, but so is the need: Heart disease remains the No. 1 killer of Americans, and stroke follows close behind at No. 5.
Through it all, volunteers remain the steady engine behind AHA’s mission. Young notes that involvement can take many forms: a corporate executive sponsoring a community initiative, survivors sharing their stories, medical professionals spreading lifesaving education, or families simply showing up for a Heart Walk.
“There’s a place for everyone,” she says.
February is American Heart Month, and AHA is gearing up for Wear Red Day, a national initiative that calls attention to the fact that cardiovascular disease is the leading killer of women, on February 6. Then, on February 27, the Capital Region Heart Ball will bring its signature energy to the Albany Capital Center, where volunteers help set up, assist with auctions, guide guests, and keep the celebration flowing.
But the opportunities to get involved don’t end there.
AHA’s largest event, the Capital Region Heart Walk and Run on June 7 at the University at Albany, draws thousands—and requires an army of route marshals, hydration-station helpers, photographers, parking attendants, and team captains. Come October, the Go Red for Women Luncheon offers another chance to raise awareness, lend a hand, or contribute auction items. And for those moved to shape change beyond event days, AHA’s HeartPowered advocacy network mobilizes volunteers to advance legislation that improves health outcomes for all New Yorkers.
The need is great, Young reminds us—but so is the impact. Every volunteer, every shift, every moment spent in service helps save lives.
