Research A Selected Local, National, Or Global Nonpro 723840

Research A Selected Local National Or Global Nonprofit Organization

Research a selected local, national, or global nonprofit organization or government agency to determine how it contributes to public health and safety improvements, promotes equal opportunity, and improves the quality of life within the community. Submit your findings in a 3-5 page report. The information gained from completing this activity will help you succeed with the assessment.

Paper For Above instruction

The American Heart Association (AHA) serves as a prominent nonprofit organization dedicated to combating cardiovascular diseases and promoting heart health across local, national, and global levels. Its mission emphasizes advocacy, education, and research to improve cardiovascular health and reduce the burden of heart-related illnesses. This organization plays a critical role in public health by funding scientific research, influencing health policies, and providing community education programs focused on prevention, early detection, and management of heart diseases.

The AHA’s contributions extend to addressing health disparities and promoting equitable access to cardiovascular care. Through targeted community outreach programs, such as CPR training sessions, cholesterol screenings, and initiatives aimed at reducing risk factors like smoking and unhealthy diets, the organization works to elevate health outcomes for underserved populations. Its vision of a world of longer, healthier lives underpins efforts to eliminate disparities and promote health equity, aligning with principles of social justice and community wellness.

At the organizational level, the AHA influences health policies by advocating for legislation that supports healthier environments and lifestyle choices. Its funding sources include donations from individuals, corporate sponsorships, and grants, which support both community interventions and scientific research. The organization’s strategic alliances with healthcare providers and government agencies bolster its capacity to implement large-scale public health campaigns, thereby contributing significantly to primary prevention efforts and emergency response preparedness for cardiovascular emergencies.

The impact of the AHA's work on public health can be seen in its widespread educational campaigns, which foster community awareness and behavioral change. For instance, its promotion of CPR training has increased survival rates from cardiac arrests in communities, while its emphasis on healthy lifestyle habits aims to curb the rising incidence of heart disease worldwide. The organization’s dedication to promoting healthy environments and empowering individuals aligns with health promotion theories and supports the development of comprehensive community health initiatives that prioritize equity.

The organization’s emphasis on data-driven strategies and evidence-based practices ensures that its interventions are effective and sustainable. The AHA evaluates policy impacts through continuous research and community feedback, adapting strategies to meet evolving health needs. Its role as a leader in cardiovascular health advocacy exemplifies how nonprofit organizations can shape health policies, promote social justice, and improve community health outcomes by addressing social determinants of health—such as socioeconomic status, education, and access to healthcare services.

In terms of promoting equal opportunity, the AHA targets vulnerable populations—including racial and ethnic minorities, low-income groups, and rural residents—by designing tailored interventions that account for cultural sensitivities and economic barriers. This approach aligns with principles of social justice, ensuring that all community members have access to life-saving information and health resources. The organization’s collaborations with local health departments and community organizations enhance its capacity to reach diverse populations, thereby fostering an environment of inclusivity and shared responsibility for health improvement.

Furthermore, the AHA’s commitment to funding research and supporting innovative health initiatives propels advancements in cardiovascular medicine and preventive care. Its role in establishing guidelines for clinical practice and public health policies contributes to standardizing effective care practices that reduce disparities and improve quality of life. These efforts exemplify how strategic funding and policy advocacy can serve as powerful tools to achieve health equity and enhance community well-being.

Overall, the American Heart Association exemplifies a nonprofit organization that effectively contributes to public health and safety improvements by promoting health education, fostering policy change, and supporting research. Its focus on health equity and community engagement underscores its role as a vital agent of social justice and quality of life improvements. Through continual advocacy and scientific inquiry, the AHA advances its mission to build healthier lives, aligning with global health goals and addressing community-specific health challenges with integrated, sustainable solutions.

References

  • American Heart Association. (2020). About us. https://www.heart.org/en/about-us
  • Benjamin, E. J., et al. (2019). Heart disease and stroke statistics—2019 update: A report from the American Heart Association. Circulation, 139(10), e56–e528.
  • Fletcher, R. (2021). Impact of health policy advocacy by nonprofit organizations. Journal of Public Health Policy, 42(3), 385-399.
  • Jones, C. P. (2000). Levels of racism: A theoretic framework and a gardener's tale. American Journal of Public Health, 90(8), 1212-1215.
  • World Health Organization. (2021). Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cardiovascular-diseases-(cvds)
  • Howard, J., & Matthews, K. (2018). The role of community-based organizations in health promotion. Health Promotion International, 33(4), 575-582.
  • Smith, M., et al. (2017). Disparities in cardiovascular health: Addressing social determinants to improve community outcomes. Journal of Community Health, 42(5), 977-985.
  • U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2018). Healthy People 2020 objectives for cardiovascular health. https://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topics-objectives/topic/heart-disease-and-stroke
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Heart disease facts. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm
  • ACS. (2019). Building health equity through scientific research and community engagement. American College of Surgeons Bulletin, 104(11), 16-21.