The American Heart Association (AHA) is bringing its annual Volusia‑Flagler Heart Walk to Daytona Beach on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026. The event will take place at the iconic Daytona International Speedway, offering a day of community, education and inspiration focused on heart health.
Why the Heart Walk Matters
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, and the AHA’s mission is to reduce that toll through research, advocacy and public‑health education. By gathering volunteers, donors and participants, the walk helps fund critical research projects and supports programs that teach families how to adopt healthier lifestyles.
Local Leaders Join the Cause
Kelley Harrell, the AHA’s development director for Volusia, Flagler and Brevard counties, told WESH 2 that the organization’s work “touches every corner of our community.” She highlighted recent successes, including new funding for cardiac‑rehabilitation programs in local hospitals.
Dr. Albert Mosley, president of Bethune‑Cookman University, also voiced his personal connection to the event. Bethune‑Cookman is one of the top five corporate supporters of the walk, and Dr. Mosley shared that a family member’s battle with heart disease inspired his involvement. “When we come together for a cause that protects our families, we strengthen the very fabric of our community,” he said.
What Participants Can Expect
Walkers will start at the Speedway’s main entrance and follow a scenic route that circles the track. Along the way, volunteers will provide blood‑pressure screenings, heart‑health information booths and opportunities to sign up for future AHA programs. Local businesses are sponsoring water stations and healthy snack stations, reinforcing the message that nutrition plays a key role in cardiovascular wellness.
Families are encouraged to bring children, as the AHA has organized age‑appropriate activities, including a “Heart‑Smart” obstacle course and a kids’ art contest themed around healthy living. The event aims to make heart‑health education fun and accessible for all ages.
How to Get Involved
Registration is free, though participants are asked to consider a donation to support ongoing research. The AHA’s website provides a simple sign‑up form, and volunteers are needed to staff information tables, hand out educational materials and assist with crowd management.
Community members who cannot attend in person can still contribute by donating online or by purchasing AHA merchandise, with proceeds directed toward research grants and community‑based health initiatives.
Looking Ahead
The Heart Walk is part of a broader effort by the AHA to expand its presence in Central Florida. Organizers hope that the success of this event will lead to additional health‑focused activities, such as free CPR training sessions and partnerships with local schools to incorporate heart‑health curricula.
By uniting volunteers, local leaders and families, the Volusia‑Flagler Heart Walk underscores the power of community action in the fight against heart disease. For more information on registration, donation options and volunteer opportunities, visit the AHA’s official event page.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
