2025 First Coast Heart Ball achieves record attendance, raises $1.5 million
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. March 18, 2025 — On March 8, the American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives, gathered nearly 600 community leaders, volunteers and supporters at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa for the 2025 First Coast Heart Ball – marking a record attendance. The event raised $1.5 million, which will support the American Heart Association’s efforts to eliminate health disparities, advance medical research, educate communities and champion lifesaving policies.
The event was a culmination of the year-round Heart of the First Coast campaign that worked to improve and save lives from heart disease and stroke. The First Coast Heart Ball marked a moment in time to reflect, honor and celebrate the progress made through the discovery of groundbreaking research, advancements in equitable health, advocacy efforts at local, state and federal levels and efforts to equip communities with lifesaving knowledge.
The event also placed an emphasis on the importance of Hands-Only CPR and the American Heart Association’s goal of doubling the survival rate of cardiac arrest by 2030. This year’s Heart Ball Chairpersons were Anthony Hucker, chairman, president and CEO of Southeastern Grocers, and Elizabeth Thompson, founder and CEO of Intuitive Quest, LLC.
The gala was exquisitely decorated with a tropical theme and included a cocktail hour, silent and live auctions, an Open Your Heart segment and performances by the WE GOT THE BEAT! band and guest vocalist Michelle Lineberger. The event program was hosted by J.P. Shadrick, senior reporter and editor for the Jacksonville Jaguars. During the event, Shadrick shared seven local volunteers’ compelling stories of survivorship, triumph and local involvement.
“We are immensely thankful to our guests, sponsors and volunteers whose support has been instrumental in the success of this year’s campaign,” said Caitlin Brunell, executive director for the American Heart Association First Coast. “The fervent dedication and passion from members of our community has served as a heartwarming reminder of what we can achieve when we work together for a common purpose.”
More than 50 sponsors supported this year’s event, including Life is Why sponsor Florida Blue, Getting to the Heart of Stroke™ National Sponsor HCA Florida Healthcare and Signature Sponsor Southeastern Grocers.
For more information on how to donate, visit the First Coast Heart Ball.
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About the American Heart Association
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 heart.org, on Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Emma Richards: emma.richards@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
