209 Heart & Stroke Walk

About Us

June 10, 2024, marks 100 years of scientific discovery and innovation by the American Heart Association.

Founded in Chicago by six cardiologists, the American Heart Association was inspired by a social worker who felt more could be done to help people who suffered heart attacks. From humble beginnings and with a vision improving health around the world, the American Heart Association has grown dramatically. The Association is now the nation's oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke.

During its second century of bold action, the Association is committed to advancing health and hope for everyone, everywhere.

From humble beginning, the AHA has grown over the last 100 years into the nation's oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer worldwide, and stroke ranks second globally. Your American Heart Association is advancing health and hope for all and creating a vision for brighter tomorrows free from these diseases. Join us in celebrating and all the patients, survivors and caregivers of heart disease and stroke and honoring those we have lost.

As we close out our first 100 years and begin the next, our work remains as important as ever. We are just getting started on the next chapter of our relentless work to end heart disease and stroke. The American Heart Association’s centennial is a celebration of the lifesaving achievements and shared vision for a bold second century that will exponentially advance heart and brain health. We have invested more than $4.1 billion in research, more than any U.S. nonprofit organization. Learn more about our life-changing funded research breakthroughs.

Our Mission

To be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.