Staff Reports | Free Press Philanthropy
The American Heart Association’s 2025 West Valley Heart Walk raised $315,000 on Nov. 15 at Goodyear Civic Square, the highest total in the event’s history. The walk was chaired by Ruben Castro, CEO of Abrazo Scottsdale Campus.
According to a press release, participation also reached a record level, with 79 companies registered and an estimated 8,000 walkers attending. The association recognized Abrazo Health for contributing the largest number of walkers, with 295 participants.
“This year, the focus was on prevention—equipping our community with CPR training, education, and the confidence to step in if a cardiac emergency occurs,” said Mr. Castro. “Empowering people to save lives is at the heart of the American Heart Association’s mission.”
The West Valley Heart Walk is a noncompetitive, 3-mile walk with an optional 1-mile “Survivor Miracle Mile.” The event raises awareness and funds to support the association’s efforts to fight heart disease and stroke.
Attendees also participated in health education, wellness activities and entertainment in a family-friendly setting. Pets and strollers were welcome.
Beyond fundraising, the event emphasized CPR and lifesaving education as part of the association’s broader mission. The 2025 campaign supports the AHA’s national Nation of Lifesavers™ initiative, which aims to double survival rates from cardiac arrest by 2030 through increased CPR training and awareness.
“People walk at this event for very personal reasons because most of us know someone affected by heart disease. We walk together because we know that with every step, we are educating and saving lives,” said Mr. Castro.
