Each year, the American Heart Association relies on people just like you to help us reduce disability and death due to heart disease and stroke. There are many ways for you to volunteer your help:

Science -- Each year, our organization channels millions of dollars to research efforts. Peer review committee provides a critical science review of all applications to determine the most meritorious projects. All clinical and basic scientists with research experience are urged to contribute in a way in which only they are capable.

Community Programs -- Educational programs seek to lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. We can use your help to reach the children, adults, ethnic groups, and patients who can benefit from our services.

Development or Fund Raising -- Our fund-raising activities secure the funds necessary to support our research and educational program activities. Examples of opportunities include organizing special events (auctions, dinners, galas, walks, fitness or golf), soliciting major gifts, and recruiting other volunteers.

Communications or Public Relations -- To help ensure success, our activities, events and programs are promoted through these efforts. We can use your help in producing and distributing news releases, creating posters and flyers, and developing positive relationships with the media in your community.

Public Affairs -- These activities help maintain our reputation as a successful and credible voluntary health agency. Mobilizing volunteers and staff to influence public policy decisions related to heart health, and ensuring the operation of a Federal Legislative response network, are important strategies critical to our mission. With your help, we can make a difference at the local, state and national levels of public policy.

If you need information on any of these topics now, please contact the American Heart Association by dialing 1-800-AHA-USA1.