2025 Richmond Heart Ball raises $1.3 million to create a world of longer, healthier lives
Richmond, VA, April 17, 2025 — Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S.[1] In addition, an aging, more diverse population, along with a significant increase in heart disease and stroke risk factors among younger people are expected to nearly triple the nation’s price tag on cardiovascular disease (CVD) by 2050, according to new published projections from the American Heart Association.
On April 12, the 2025 Richmond Heart Ball brought together community leaders, volunteers and survivors working to change that statistic. The gala event showcased how research discovery, advocacy, equity and the knowledge to make an impact can change health outcomes in Central Virginia. The 1.3 million$ raised will help support the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association, which has been advancing health and hope for everyone, everywhere for more than 100 years.
“We are immensely proud of the impact the Heart Ball has on our community,” said Terrence Kerner, president of Atlantic Constructors, who served as the volunteer chairman for the 2025 Richmond Heart Ball. “This event is more than just a celebration; it’s a powerful statement of what we can achieve when we come together for a vital cause. Because heart disease and stroke remain the No. 1 and No. 5 threats to our health, it’s critical that we support the lifesaving research, education and advocacy efforts of the American Heart Association. Together we can create a vision for brighter tomorrows free from heart disease and stroke.”
The event was a culmination of the year-round Heart of Richmond campaign that works to equitably improve and save lives from heart disease and stroke. The Richmond Heart Ball marks 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 equipping communities with lifesaving knowledge.
This year’s event was held at Main Street Station and hosted by Matt DiNardo of ABC 8. More than 700 local guests heard the story of Elizabeth Jackson, a local preschool teacher who experienced a sudden cardiac arrest at home. Jackon’s 16-year-old granddaughter, MJ Ringgold, performed lifesaving CPR on Jackson to save her life.
“We are deeply grateful to our guests, sponsors and volunteers for making this year’s event a tremendous success,” said Chandra Hurst, American Heart Association Central Virginia Board Chair. “Their generosity and support are instrumental in driving the American Heart Association’s mission to combat heart disease and stroke. The Association’s future is about improving yours. We invite the entire community to work together so we can advance health and hope for everyone in Richmond.”
The American Heart Association is the world’s leading nonprofit organization that focuses on heart and brain health. For more information on how to support the American Heart Association visit heart.org/Virginia.
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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: 214-706-1173
Audry Dubon: audry.dubon@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
