Erin Crawford’s passion for the American Heart Association (AHA) is evident. As a Development Director for AHA, she helps advance its mission through cultivating partnerships and relationships.
“I’m so proud of our mission,” she said. “Heart disease literally touches one in two people. Whether they have a stint, are learning CPR, or recovering from a stroke or heart attack, there are countless ways the AHA directly impacts lives.”
Crawford's role involves communicating with donors and planning/executing educational programs to highlight the work and the importance of the AHA mission and garner necessary funding to continue to build a healthier community. At the AHA, Crawford relies on many experiences and learnings from her undergraduate degree at Purdue University.
“I was a communication major with a focus on events/public relations in undergrad at Purdue. I assisted in coordinating many events for nonprofits, and that helped build a foundation for my role today,” she said.
Crawford’s family and family history is also deeply connected to AHA’s mission and work. This only enhances her passion for her AHA career.
“As far as family history, my grandfather has heart disease, and my grandmother died from sudden cardiac arrest, not to mention the countless number of people in my life living with stints, so the AHA has touched my life directly as well,” Crawford said.
The state of Indiana requires students to receive CPR education before graduating high school. Many of these trainings can lead to a CPR certification. Learning the life-saving skills of CPR sooner rather than later is most beneficial according to Crawford.
“In the state of Indiana, all students are expected to receive and participate in CPR training before graduation,” Crawford said. “Some aren’t given the opportunity to learn it until the 12th grade, which is not optimal in case they were called to help a parent who collapses at home.”
The AHA’s mission, according to its website, is to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. AHA reaches far and deep across the U.S., as 87% of American adults believe that the AHA can save their life, and 92% of American adults believe AHA is a leader in health science.
Most AHA proceeds go directly to benefit the lives the organization seeks to save every day. In fact, less than 10% of proceeds go to AHA salaries, which is unheard of in most nonprofits or other organizations.
“Less than 10% of donations go to management and administration fees,” said Crawford. “A majority of funds go directly to research or directly to those impacted by a heart-related condition to save lives.”
Given these statistics and other factors, the AHA is very highly regarded by the public.
“The American Heart Association is a preferred charity and has a 4 star ranking amongst Charity Navigator,” Crawford said.
Outside work, Crawford spends her free time with her children.
“I have three children ages 1, 3, and 6,” she said. “They keep me busy outside of work!”
Between her work with AHA and her role as a mother, Crawford’s life is undoubtedly full. She is certainly touching many lives in her capacities.