Despite pouring rain, North Augusta’s SRP Park was filled with hundreds of community members participating in this year’s CSRA Heart Walk on Friday evening, March 22.
Almost 40 companies and more than 150 walking teams helped fundraise for the event, with Savannah River Nuclear Solutions being recognized as the top company after raising over $114,300, and E-Z-GO Engineering being awarded the top team for raising $78,247.
Other top companies included Textron Specialized Vehicles, Doctors Hospital of Augusta, Savannah River Mission Completion and the Savannah River National Laboratory.
Celebrating 100 years of the American Heart Association, which began thanks to a partnership between six dedicated cardiologists, the Heart Walk allows survivors, family members and friends to fundraise thousands of dollars.
Following the annual event, every donated dollar goes towards supporting research, medical breakthroughs and training more people in lifesaving CPR.
With a superhero theme for this year’s 5K and mile walk, many wore capes, masks and superhero costumes to commemorate the event.
Three-year participant Ana Benning said she walks in the event to show support for her mother, who suffered a stroke 10 years ago.
“When I started working for SRP, I realized they were really involved in the walk, and so this year I was able to raise money for it,” Benning said. “I had a goal of $500 and I was able to meet it. I couldn’t believe it. It’s a good feeling … I will always walk for my mom.”
For those who have never participated in the walking event, Benning said she would encourage community members to take part in next year’s fundraiser, as it offers a close sense of community.
“The fact that a community can come together so strongly for such a personal thing to me is amazing,” she said. “Knowing that there are other people you can talk to that can relate to you is great … the community process here is something everyone needs to come and see.”
As of Friday afternoon, $552,450 had been raised out of the $685,000 goal, according to the CSRA Heart Walk website.
“The CSRA is here and strong,” Benning said. “We’re here and smiling.”
To donate and support the CSRA Heart Walk, visit: https://www2.heart.org/site/SPageServer/?pagename=HeartWalk_Search&search_type=walker&cross_event=false&fr_id=9846&event_search=false
