Hats for Heart returns December 4 with new focus on emergency preparedness
SOUTHLAKE, October 27, 2025 — The American Heart Association announces the 2025–2026 Tarrant County Hats for Heart Luncheon, an annual event uniting local leaders, philanthropists, and advocates in support of lifesaving education and emergency preparedness across Northeast Tarrant County. The luncheon, now in its fourth year, is becoming a beloved tradition for mission supporters in Southlake, Keller, Westlake, Colleyville, and surrounding cities. These communities have come together in their shared mission to enhance this area's ability to react in a cardiac emergency response, enhancing its safety and investment in health and wellness.
This year’s luncheon highlights an urgent focus: working alongside the American Heart Association in the Nation of Lifesavers initiative to double the survival rate of sudden cardiac arrest by 2030. Through the dedicated volunteers and supporters, the Hats for Heart campaign aims to equip schools, athletic programs, and public spaces with the tools and education needed to build a model community of lifesavers, setting a powerful example for all of Texas.
Leading the charge as chairperson for the Hats for Heart campaign is Melissa Witbeck, a Vice President at Charles Schwab, whose commitment to the mission is deeply personal. In January 2024, Melissa lost her father-in-law to sudden cardiac arrest. The vibrant, loving grandfather who helped raise her children was only 62 years old.
“My kids needed their grandpa. Since we lost him, I have learned that all it takes is someone jumping in quickly to save a life with CPR,” Witbeck said. “That’s why I’m committed to this mission. If I can help one, ten, or a hundred families avoid what we went through, I’ll do everything I can.”
Melissa’s story is one of many that illustrates why CPR education is critical and why this year’s Hats for Heart campaign is more urgent than ever. Melissa, a Westlake resident, now advocates for community readiness, and her journey from tragedy to action fuels her passion for building a community of lifesavers.
Joining Witbeck in volunteer leadership is Michelle Davis, Vice President of Business Development for Northeast Tarrant County at Byers & Taylor Title in Southlake. As the legacy and auction chair of this year’s Hats for Heart campaign, Davis brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal passion to the role. A founding sponsor and former Chair of the event, she is deeply rooted in the Southlake community and has long championed the mission to build a healthier, more prepared Northeast Tarrant County.
“When this annual event began over four years ago, I felt a clear calling to sponsor and help spread the word,” said Davis. “After spearheading last year’s initiative, I’m honored to co-lead alongside Melissa this year knowing that at any moment, I or someone close to me could be the one whose life is saved because of the awareness we’re helping to raise. When I was first diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder, I learned I was at greater risk for heart disease. That’s when this mission became even more personal to me.”
The 2025 Hats for Heart Luncheon will take place on Thursday, December 4, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM CT at The Bowden, located at 1775 Keller Parkway in Keller, Texas. Guests will enjoy a vibrant luncheon experience featuring a fashion-forward hat showcase, heartfelt storytelling, and opportunities to connect with community changemakers, all set in the elegant surroundings of The Bowden. Attendees are encouraged to wear their favorite hats in honor of the cause and join us for a heartfelt celebration of community, courage, and lifesaving action.
Secure your seat for the Hats for Heart Luncheon by purchasing tickets at Heart.org/HatsforHeart starting in early November. Contact Jacquie Maddox at Jacquie.Maddox@heart.org for sponsorship or volunteer opportunities, or to learn more about making a difference.
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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, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Lindsey Lyons Jones
Phone: 214-441-4114
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
