2025 South Florida Heart Ball unites to create a world of longer, healthier lives
Hollywood, Fla., June 3, 2025 — Recently the American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, brought together community leaders, volunteers and survivors at the 2025 South Florida Heart Ball. The gala showcased how research discovery, advocacy, equitable health and knowledge can impact health outcomes in South Florida. The event was a culmination of the year-round Heart of South Florida campaign, which strives to improve and save lives from heart disease and stroke. More than $880,000 was raised and 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.
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. The Heart Ball brought together heart health champions who are working to change that statistic.
“We are immensely proud of the impact the Heart Ball has on our community,” said Dr. Harry Moon, president and CEO of Nova Southeastern University, who serves as the volunteer chairperson for the 2025 South Florida 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.”
American AED, a One Beat Company, served as the Platform Sponsor for this year’s event held at The Diplomat Beach Resort and hosted by Jenise Fernandez and Tavares Jones. More than 375 guests, united by a passion for the American Heart Association’s life-changing mission, were deeply moved by seven hometown heroes. They shared powerful stories of survivorship, triumph, victory and lifesaving advocacy, bringing the mission to life right here in South Florida.
“We are deeply grateful to our guests, sponsors and volunteers for making this year’s event a tremendous success,” said Marisol Vera, executive director, American Heart Association, Greater Miami Fort Lauderdale. “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 South Florida.”
The 2025 South Florida Heart Ball was locally sponsored by City Furniture, American AED, Rick Case Automotive Group, Nova Southeastern University, UKG, B&I Contractors, Memorial Health Services, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and Florida Power & Light Company.
For more information on how to support the American Heart Association visit www.heart.org.
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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, it funds groundbreaking research, advocates for public health, and provides 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, the association works tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with the American Heart Association at heart.org, on Facebook, X, or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries: 214-706-1173
Melissa Solis: Melissa.Solis@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
