EmPOWERED
to Serve™

Structural racism is the overarching system in which public policies, institutional practices, cultural representations and other norms perpetuate racial inequity.

Learn how we are addressing these challenges through our initiatives.
Woman Getting Vaccinated

EmPOWERED to Serve is a platform inspired by American Heart Association volunteers around the country who are passionate about driving change through health justice and empowerment in their communities.

Communities need localized solutions that will help individuals and families escalate beyond poverty and achieve improved life outcomes. No one knows the changes needed in a community as well as the members themselves. Read about our focus areas and impact goals.

Scholarship and Mentoring Opportunities

EmPOWERED Scholars

EmPOWERED to Serve™ offers college scholarships to students who are passionate about public health, health equity and community engagement, especially those in communities with fewer resources to help students manage financial aid and debt. Currently enrolled freshmen, sophomores and juniors in a U.S. college or university who are working to improve community well-being and have a 2.0 GPA or higher are eligible to apply.

Learn more about this program

HBCU Scholars Program

The AHA partners with Historically Black Colleges and Universities to help students working toward professional degrees in the biomedical and health sciences. HBCU Scholars learn about the health of their communities, participate in research projects and explore varied career paths. Currently enrolled Black or African sophomores, juniors and seniors at select HBCUs who are highly motivated to seek careers in biomedical or health sciences and have a 3.2 GPA in the sciences are eligible to apply.

Learn more about this research and mentoring program

HSI Scholars Program

The AHA partners with Hispanic Serving Institutions of Higher Education and their students to create a pipeline for diverse researchers and health care professionals. Scholars are provided academic and career-enriching resources, including scholarships and mentoring. Currently enrolled sophomores, juniors and seniors at select HSIs who are highly motivated to seek careers in biomedical or health sciences and have a 3.0 GPA in the sciences are eligible to apply.

Learn more about this scholarship and mentoring program

Red Alert, Women, Fibroids and Heart Health

Too many women suffer in silence with fibroids, and its impact on heart health and mental well-being is often overlooked. That’s why a panel of doctors, educators, and advocates—including AHA volunteer expert Dr. Sadiya Khan—engaged in an in-depth discussion in Red Alert! A Conversation About HER Virtual Summit in July.

Our strategic alliance, Her Nexx Chapter, hosted the event.

Check-In & Check-Up for Your Health With Sybil Wilkes

Groups and organizations have always been the portal to move people towards overall betterment.

Check-In & Check-Up for Your Health will galvanize community partners to inform and empower the African American community for better health.

Highlights
Katrina McGhee and Lili Gil Valletta

Live Fierce / Atrévete a Vivir Podcasts

Science meets self-care. This fun and dynamic series features podcasts hosted by American Heart Association Executive VP of Marketing and Communications Katrina McGhee—who is also a longtime professional coach—and Lili Gil Valletta, co-founder and CEO of the cultural intelligence firms CIEN + and Culturintel.

Listen and Subscribe

EmPOWERING headlines

News, stories and videos that impact your well-being.

Read more Health Equity Headlines

Health Equity in the Workplace

The American Heart Association’s CEO Roundtable is working to eliminate workplace inequities that harm the health and well-being of employees, businesses and communities. The Roundtable’s new report, developed by business leaders and health experts, provides actionable strategies and principles employers can use to build toward health equity.

Read the full report (PDF) Read about the report
group of diverse people in a work environment posing for photo while smiling

Scientific Statements  and  Joint Resolutions

Social Determinants of Health Policy and Position Statements: Housing

Watch EmPOWERED to Serve in Action

Videos that reflect the powerful impact EmPOWERED to Serve has in the community.

Stories that transform the world in which we live.

  • Dr. Michelle Albert, Black History Month 2022| Meet Dr. Michelle Albert, President-Elect 2021/2022 of the American Heart Association as she shares her commitment to Black History Month and to her profession which aligns closely with the mission of the American Heart Association.

    Feb 8, 2022

  • Black Men’s Health – Perspectives of Black Culture Icons | Structural racism has a devastating impact on the health of men of color – specifically mental and cardiovascular health. Jawn Murray, Damion Hall, Mathew Knowles, Trymaine Lee, Mel Gravely discuss how creating more accessible, equitable solutions for people of color across the country.

    Nov 18, 2021

  • Community Transformation Roundtable | Renowned business leaders, community leaders, philanthropists and volunteers engage in a lively, meaningful discussion about transforming communities and removing health barriers through faith, finance and business.
     

    Nov 12, 2020

  • Health Justice Roundtable | Scholars from our EmPOWERED to Serve and HBCU Scholars program engage in a  lively, meaningful conversation about breaking down barriers to health, structural racism and how to make the world better.

    Nov 11, 2020

  • Transforming communities through faith finance and business | Join the continued conversation on community transformation, prioritizing investments in under-resourced communities.

    Nov 17, 2020