The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization devoted to world of healthier lives for all, announces Keisha Olinger, Partner and Atlanta Office Leader for Mercer as the community volunteer chairwoman of the 2023 Atlanta area Go Red for Women movement. Go Red for Women is a worldwide initiative of the American Heart Association designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women locally, nationally, and globally.

Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the United States, claiming more lives each year than all forms of cancer combined. Cardiovascular disease continues to be a woman’s greatest health threat, taking the life of one in every three women. In Fulton County, one percent (1%) of women have survived a heart attack at some time in their life.¹

“Many of us have been or know someone who has been affected by cardiovascular disease,” said Olinger. “It is my hope as this year’s chairwoman to inspire individuals in our community to be a part of the Go Red movement and join me in the relentless fight to eradicate heart disease and stroke in women.”

This year marks the 19^th anniversary of the American Heart Association’s launch of the Go Red for Women movement nationwide. The impact areas of Go Red for this year include focusing on funding cardiovascular research for women, addressing maternal health disparities, providing solutions to enhance mental well-being, ensuring every woman has the opportunity to learn and administer CPR, as well as supporting women in local communities who are disproportionately impacted by heart disease and stroke.

“As a longtime supporter of the American Heart Association, Keisha’s experience, conviction and passion help drive the Go Red movement in Atlanta. Together, we know that we will have a positive impact on the lives of women in our community and the families that depend on them,” said Carla Smith, Senior Vice President and Executive Director of the Metro Atlanta American Heart Association. 

A new addition to Go Red for Women this year is the Women of Impact/Teen of Impact initiative. Women and teens are nominated by their peers to participate. The nominees will recruit champions from their networks to form a fundraising team and have a direct impact on women’s health and the Go Red for Women vision of creating a passionate community dedicated to addressing health issues unique to women. The nominee whose team makes the largest impact in each market will be named the local Woman of Impact Award Winner or Teen of Impact Award Winner. 

This year’s Go Red for Women movement and its local achievements will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 11 at the Atlanta Go Red for Women Luncheon starting at 11 a.m. at the InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta. The luncheon is sponsored by Northside Hospital, Southern Company, Kaiser Permanente, Mercer, Genuine Parts Company, BlackRock and the City of Atlanta. 

For more information about Go Red for Women visit atlantagored.heart.org.