MELVILLE, N.Y., Sept. 22, 2025 — The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone, everywhere, is proud to announce Jeffrey Barber, executive vice president and senior group leader in the Lending Division at Dime Community Bank, as chairperson of the 2025 Long Island Heart Walk. Dime Community Bank is a signature sponsor at this year’s Heart Walk.
Expected to gather more than 5000 walkers, the annual event will take place Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025, uniting Long Islanders in support of the American Heart Association’s mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. The Heart Walk is the Association’s premier event for raising funds to save lives from heart disease and stroke, the nation’s No. 1 and No. 5 killers.
“This event is personal for me. I lost my father, who battled heart disease for many years, and I also lost a close friend to a sudden heart attack. Supporting this cause is my way of honoring them and helping others protect their heart health,” said Barber. “Leading the Heart Walk is my way of turning that experience into action, uniting our leaders and the Long Island community to raise awareness and support the work of the Heart Association.”
Barber is leading efforts to rally corporate and community support for the Heart Walk, which also highlights the Heart Association’s Nation of Lifesavers movement. This initiative aims to turn bystanders into lifesavers by equipping millions with CPR skills and the confidence to act in an emergency.
Last May through June, Dime Community Bank ran a Life is Why™ consumer campaign across its 54 Long Island branches in support of the Heart Walk, underscoring its commitment to the Heart Association’s mission.
“We are thrilled to have Jeff lead this year’s Long Island Heart Walk,” said Tara Schneider, executive director at the American Heart Association on Long Island. “His passion, leadership and personal connection to our mission will inspire others to get involved and help save lives.”
This year’s featured survivor and Red Cap Ambassador is Aidan Lyons, a young athlete who was born with congenital heart defects and told he would not survive. Today, Aidan is thriving and serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of research and community support.
Jenna DeAngelis, Emmy award-winning reporter and fill-in anchor at CBS News New York, will serve as emcee for the event. The day will feature family-friendly activities focused on heart health, including a Hands-Only CPR kiosk, blood pressure screenings and wellness resources. A Kids Zone will offer pumpkin painting, carnival-style games and activities for all ages. Participants will also enjoy a scenic walk along the boardwalk, making it a day filled with education, heart-healthy fun and community spirit. There is truly something for everyone.
This initiative is made possible through the generous support of Live Fierce. Take Action. sponsors Webster Bank and Mount Sinai South Nassau, signature sponsor Dime Community Bank and local sponsors Stony Brook Medicine and NYU Langone, whose commitment to the Association’s lifesaving mission continues to drive meaningful change across Long Island and beyond.
For more information, contact Darby Schwier at [email protected] or visit www.longislandheartwalk.org.
Additional resources:
###
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Instagram, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Bong Arquiza: [email protected]
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
link