An estimated 1 in 25 construction workers in the United States has been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease,¹ fueled by factors including long hours, high stress, poor nutrition, and tobacco use. To help address those risk factors, the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, and Savannah-area construction and design leaders are joining forces through Hard Hats with Heart, a campaign focused on improving workplace health and well-being.

The campaign’s focus is to integrate health, well-being and prevention strategies into the industry’s culture by inspiring companies to implement initiatives to help employees improve health and well-being. Examples include providing healthy food options, promoting physical activity during breaks, implementing stress-reducing programs, educating employees about the signs of heart disease, and teaching employees cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

“After a successful inaugural year, we’re excited to continue building momentum for Hard Hats with Heart in the Savannah area,” said Rachael Mitchell, development director for the American Heart Association, Southern Coast. “Construction professionals are critical to this community, and this initiative provides employers with tools and resources to support the long-term well-being of their teams.”

Eric Sanford, CEO and president of Landmark 24 Homes will serve as campaign chair. “I am honored to lead the Hard Hats with Heart campaign as we bring together Savannah area construction leaders to improve health in our industry,” said Eric. “As a heart survivor myself, I know how important it is to prioritize health.”

Hard Hats with Heart is a year-round campaign that will culminate with a networking event on November 19, bringing together construction industry leaders and advocates committed to improving workforce health. The event will be held at Tubby’s Tank House.

Landmark 24 Homes is the presenting sponsor of Hard Hats with Heart in the Southern Coast.

For more information about Hard Hats with Heart or to purchase tickets, visit www.heart.org/southerncoasthardhats or contact [email protected] .