RIVERSIDE, Calif., May 14,2025 — More than 1,500 people gathered at the Inland Empire Heart and Stroke Walk on Saturday, April 26, at Rancho Jurupa Park, raising more than $307,484 to further the American Heart Association’s lifesaving mission. Nine out of 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside the hospital don’t survive—a sobering statistic that underscores the Heart and Stroke Walk’s urgent call to action: fundraise, learn CPR and take action to save lives.

In addition to raising critical funds, the Inland Empire Heart and Stroke Walk brought together heart disease and stroke survivors, as well as participants from local companies, to unite in the mission to save lives. Every walker who joined the Heart Walk, every dollar donated, means more people trained in lifesaving CPR, more research and more lifesaving moments for everyone.  

“The Heart and Stroke Walk is a powerful reminder of what the community can achieve by coming together,” said Inland Empire Health Plan Chief Communications and Marketing Officer Michelle Rai. “By supporting this year-round initiative, people and organizations aren’t just raising funds—they’re equipping more people with lifesaving skills and making the Inland Empire a stronger, healthier place.”

Michael Krouse, President/CEO of GOCal, was announced as the incoming 2026 Inland Empire Heart and Stroke Walk Chair. 

Here in the Inland Empire, the top companies based on fundraising include:

  • Cardenas Markets Foundation
  • Kaiser Permanente SBC
  • Kaiser Permanente – Riverside County
  • Ferguson

The Inland Empire Heart and Stroke Walk is sponsored by Cardenas Markets Foundation, GOCal, Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation and IEHP.  You can still donate at IEHeartWalk.org.

# # #

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:

Daniel Ruacho, daniel.ruacho@heart.org 

For Public Inquiries:

1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org