Volunteers work to educate the public about the warning signs of cardiovascular emergencies, and to reduce the time to treatment for sudden cardiac arrest. The program supports upgrading stroke emergency coding and increasing the number of hospitals prepared to offer appropriate acute treatment. Stroke volunteers also help spread the word about the Stroke Family Support Network to survivors and their families. Volunteers may also support public and professional education programs, as well as activities that focus on preventing heart disease and stroke. They cultivate relationships with area media and work to create campaigns for educational program and fundraising events.
Advocacy is the act or process of advancing or defeating a cause, policy or proposal.
This includes not only national and state legislation but company policies, community issues and neighborhood projects. They also work with the media to educate the public, and with other organizations to form coalitions. Advocacy is a powerful tool for producing social change, and can affect the quality of life for entire communities for many years. You can help the American Heart Association by joining the Legislative Grassroots Network. Volunteers at all types of skill levels are needed and greatly appreciated.