Savannah River Site (SRS) recently hosted a Heart Walk celebration in partnership with the American Heart Association (AHA), uniting employees, local community members and organizational partners to support the fight against heart disease.
This year’s event raised a total of $182,664, demonstrating a strong commitment to heart health, especially as heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the U.S., claiming nearly 695,000 lives annually, according to a press release from SRS.
The funds were raised through the collaborative efforts of Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS), Savannah River Mission Completion and Battelle Savannah River Alliance.
The three organizations supported the cause through employee donations and more than 75 onsite fundraising events. Notably, SRNS contributed $109,612, with an additional $25,000 check bringing their total donation to $134,612, according to a press release from SRS.
Bradley Clark, Senior Safety Specialist and 2025 AHA Heart Walk Chair, expressed the significance and highlighted the importance of heart disease awareness and prevention in this year’s celebration.
“Supporting the AHA is an opportunity to help further the study of cardiovascular research and help save lives,” he said.
One standout contribution came from SRNS Senior Vice President JC Epting, who raised over $17,000 for the AHA.
His personal connection to the cause, driven by his father’s battle with cardiovascular issues, motivated him to get more involved and raise awareness about heart disease.
“When it becomes personal, you realize just how critical awareness and proactive measures truly are,” Epting said.
Development Director at the American Heart Association, Marah Curry, expressed gratitude for SRNS’s continued partnership.
“This longstanding collaboration is driving our mission forward and helping us build a community where everyone can live longer, healthier lives,” Curry said.
The celebration underscored the collective power of a community united for a common cause, with SRNS leaders like Senior Vice President Sean Alford reaffirming the company’s commitment to employee health and well-being, according to a press release from SRS.
“We’re proud to stand alongside the AHA in the fight against heart disease and stroke,” Alford said.
The American Heart Association continues to lead efforts in cardiovascular disease prevention, encouraging lifestyle changes such as physical activity, healthy eating and tobacco avoidance, according to a press release from SRS.
To find out more about SRS, visit https://www.srs.gov/.
