Teaming up for the Tampa Bay Heart Walk
For the 14th consecutive year, hundreds of Raymond James associates, advisors, friends and family members walked in support of the American Heart Association.
After months of fundraising events, education sessions and fitness activities, more than 500 Raymond James associates and advisors, together with their friends and family members, collectively raised over $320,000 for lifesaving education and research in the fight against cardiovascular disease. The firm’s committed associates once again earned Raymond James the distinction of number one Heart Walk fundraising company in Tampa Bay.
“I think what’s really exciting about Heart Walk at Raymond James is that it’s become more than just an annual event,” RJA President and CEO and AHA Metro Tampa Bay board member Tash Elwyn said. “It’s something we embody and live throughout the year, and it has created more awareness and focus on the importance of wellness.”
Since 2010, Raymond James and its associates have raised more than $3.4 million for the Tampa Bay Heart Walk.
Focused on fitness
The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week. That’s why the Raymond James fitness center emphasizes the importance of exercise throughout the firm’s Heart Walk fundraising season. For the fourth year, associates had the opportunity to participate in the Heart Strong Challenge, a month-long competition in which Heart Walk teams earn points by logging activities such as biking, walking and attending Raymond James fitness classes.
"Seeing associates come together to strengthen their own heart health has been incredibly impactful," Fitness Senior Manage Shannon Vayne said. "
The 144 Heart Strong walkers collectively logged more than 5,700 hours of exercise during the month of October, and raised more than $24,000 for the Tampa Bay Heart Walk.
The 2023 Tampa Bay Heart Walk
This year's Tampa Bay Heart Walk saw more than 20,000 attendees at Raymond James Stadium. The fundraising event resulted in a cumulative $2.6 million+ raised for critical research and education.
“Year after year, it’s the personal stories that move me,” Director, Branch Change Management and Raymond James Heart Walk Campaign Lead Amanda Pilcher said. “Almost everyone has been personally affected by heart disease or knows someone who has. To be able to rally together to raise over $300,000 for this cause – then walk together in celebration of our success – there’s nothing quite like it.”
Raymond James participates in the Tampa Bay Heart Walk along with Heart Association events across the U.S. Visit our Heart Walk national company page to learn more.
Sources: cdc.gov, American Heart Association
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public's health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
Raymond James Cares
Together, we make a difference to build, strengthen and grow our communities. To learn more about the firm’s corporate philanthropy, click here.
To see how associates give back all year long, follow Raymond James on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.