32 of 50: American Heart Association
The American Heart Association raises funds, supports research, educates the public, and advocates for policies – all with a focus on fighting our No. 1 and No. 5 killers, heart disease and stroke. The group is both the largest and oldest voluntary health organization in the country.
Every year the American Heart Association coordinates more than 300 Heart Walks. These events play a critical role in ultimately helping the organization pursue its mission: “To be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.”
An Outstanding Organization That Relies on Community Support
Despite its long history, respected reputation, and impressive list of achievements, it’s important to understand that volunteers and donations are essential for the work that the American Heart Association does. It expertly uses the support of others to get things done, and the Heart Walk is no exception. As the organization puts it, “When you join the Heart Walk, you make a difference from day one.”
That’s exactly why M3 and our people get involved. For example, Sean LaBorde has served on the Madison Heart Walk committee for a number of years, and even chaired the event in 2015. “Much of what we do here at M3 relates to helping employers and individuals manage their healthcare plans. Heart disease and stroke are obvious issues. In fact, I think most of us in some way have been touched personally by them. For me, I’ve seen the American Heart Association’s positive impact locally. Giving my time to such an incredibly important organization feels like a natural extension of my professional life,” says Sean.
Sean and lots of others from M3’s Madison and Milwaukee offices have donated their time and money to the Heart Walk, as well as other American Heart Association events, including the Madison Heart Ball. They believe in the crucial work the organization does, and many of them have seen firsthand how it transforms people’s lives.
M3 has participated in our Heart Walk for the last several years. The event unites more than 2,500 people from across the region in support of fighting heart disease and stroke. M3 employees have gathered teams of family and friends to dedicate themselves to leading a heart-healthy lifestyle. Not only have the teams raised their heart rates, but they have raised funds that are used to fund vital research, education campaigns, healthcare quality improvement programs, and much more right here in our community.
— Charmaine Friar
Corporate Development Director | American Heart Association
