Heart of Chicago Announces 2024-2025 Counsel for a Cause Chair and Hasbrouck Heart Award Honoree
The Heart of Chicago, in partnership with the American Heart Association, is proud to announce the key figures who will lead the upcoming Counsel for a Cause Chicago campaign. The event aims to raise awareness about heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States, while also working towards health equity and community support. This year, Annie Wang, the general counsel at LivCor, will take the helm as the event chairperson, while long-time supporter Michael J. Gray will be honored with the prestigious Hasbrouck Heart Award.
Annie Wang’s Leadership as Chairperson
Annie Wang, a dedicated advocate for health equity, has recently joined the Counsel for a Cause executive leadership team and is stepping into the role of chairperson for the first time. Wang brings a deep commitment to addressing the health disparities that exist in Chicago, particularly the concerning 30-year life expectancy gap that plagues the city. She emphasizes the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all Chicagoans, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.
Wang’s vision for the Counsel for a Cause campaign includes initiatives such as placing CPR units in schools located in underprivileged neighborhoods. By doing so, Wang hopes to empower students and educators with essential heart health information and life-saving skills. This strategic approach not only broadens the reach of the American Heart Association but also ensures that communities in need receive the support they deserve.
Michael Gray’s Recognition with the Hasbrouck Heart Award
Michael Gray, a partner at Jones Day in Chicago, is being recognized this year with the Hasbrouck Heart Award for his outstanding contributions to the Counsel for a Cause campaign and his unwavering dedication to community initiatives. Gray, a respected figure in the legal profession known for his expertise in labor and employment law, has been a driving force behind the success of Counsel for a Cause since its inception.
Gray’s involvement in the campaign has led to significant fundraising efforts, including the expansion of Counsel for a Cause into New York City in 2020 to support underserved communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. His commitment to providing resources such as home blood pressure kits and CPR training to those in need reflects his deep-rooted belief in promoting health equity and accessible healthcare for all.
The Impact of Counsel for a Cause
Since its launch in 2015, the Counsel for a Cause campaign has raised over $4.8 million to combat heart disease, a staggering statistic that underscores the importance of community involvement in health initiatives. In 2021, the campaign set a goal to address uncontrolled high blood pressure and expand CPR awareness, focusing on communities disproportionately affected by these health issues.
The campaign’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, with a particular emphasis on providing essential resources to schools and communities that lack access to vital healthcare services. Through partnerships with local organizations and dedicated volunteers, Counsel for a Cause has made a tangible impact on the lives of countless individuals, offering hope and support where it is needed most.
Looking Towards the Future
As Counsel for a Cause prepares for its annual event in October 2024, the organizers are excited about the potential for even greater outreach and impact. By honoring individuals like Annie Wang and Michael Gray, the campaign celebrates the tireless efforts of those who work towards a healthier, more equitable future for all. The Hasbrouck Heart Award serves as a symbol of recognition for those who embody the spirit of compassion, generosity, and leadership in their community.
In conclusion, the Heart of Chicago’s Counsel for a Cause campaign continues to be a beacon of hope and support for those affected by heart disease and other health-related challenges. Through the dedication of individuals like Annie Wang and Michael Gray, the campaign is making a meaningful difference in the lives of Chicagoans and beyond. As we look towards the future, let us all strive to contribute to a world of longer, healthier lives for all.
