The American Heart Association is bringing the West Valley together for the inaugural West Valley Heart Walk, dedicated to raising lifesaving money and bolstering community partnerships.

The event theme is “I Walk to Save Lives,” and underscores the importance of living a physically active, tobacco-free and healthy lifestyle in the fight against the nation’s No. 1 and No. 5 killers, heart disease and stroke, according to a press release.

The walk starts at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2 at Goodyear Civic Square, 1900 N. Civic Square. Visit westvalleyheartwalk.org to register or to donate.

The money raised goes toward research, advocacy, CPR training and to promote better health in support of the Association’s 2024 Health Equity Impact Goal, reducing barriers to health care access and quality.

“The Heart Walk will be such a special day for the West Valley and broader Phoenix community. I’m humbled by the support of those dedicating their Saturday morning to supporting the Association’s lifesaving mission,” Hans Driessnack, Abrazo West Hospital CEO, and Chairman of the 2023 West Valley Heart Walk, shared in a press release.

The event will start at 9 a.m. with a festival and health expo area with sponsors, featuring activations centered on honoring survivors and caregivers through living a heart healthy lifestyle. Additional highlights include a warm-up, local bands, and a special surprise guest.

The West Valley Heart Walk will be emceed by Veronica Quintero, weather anchor for Noticiero Telemundo Arizona.

The Heart Walk inspires longer and healthier lives with more than 50 companies and West Valley community members showing their support.

Visit westvalleyheartwalk.org.