Special guest post by Joey Colleran, American Heart Association, Austin
Are you interested in helping build a healthier Austin? Do you want to join a team of passionate volunteer advocates committed to clearing the air, increasing access to healthy food, and strengthening healthcare delivery throughout the state? We have the perfect advocacy team for you –You’re the Cure, the American Heart Association’s volunteer advocacy network.
For over thirty years, the American Heart Association has dedicated advocacy efforts to the issues, opportunities and challenges shaping the health of communities across our country. Through the creation and implementation of public policy, the promotion of cardiovascular health is transformed into a tangible force that defines and measures our efforts to achieve our mission of building healthier lives free of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
We know that a healthier city leads not only to healthier hearts and minds, but economic prosperity and a better overall quality of life. We are committed to improving the health of our community and all Americans.
As a member of the You’re the Cure Network, we make it easy to become a leader in our advocacy efforts:
• Serve on an Advocacy Committee
AHA is a volunteer driven organization that relies on the experiences and knowledge of volunteers from every walk of life to achieve our mission. In order to do so, we assemble advocacy committees that help shape policies and provide leadership and support on state and local efforts. Whether you are a medical professional, business person, teacher, government employee, survivor, family member of a survivor, or just a concerned citizen you can contribute to these efforts in a meaningful way. 
• Meet with Elected Officials
Throughout the year, AHA staff visits with state legislative members at their local district offices to share the our legislative priorities. During these friendly meetings, elected officials learn more about AHA’s community programs and how they can be of support.
To join in these efforts and share your personal connection with AHA, please contact Vanessa Fuentes at Vanessa.Fuentes@heart.org.
When it comes to heart disease and stroke, You’re the Cure.