Charleston construction leaders celebrate record success of Hard Hats with Heart campaign
October 16, 2025
More than 50 companies participated, helping raise over $260,000 for heart health
The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone, everywhere, proudly celebrates the success of the 2025 Charleston Hard Hats with Heart campaign. With support from more than 50 sponsor companies, this year’s campaign raised over $260,000 – its most successful year yet.
Funds raised through the Hard Hats with Heart campaign support the American Heart Association’s mission to fight the nation’s No. 1 and No. 5 killers – heart disease and stroke – through lifesaving research, community advocacy, improved patient care, and equitable healthcare for all people.
Charleston Hard Hats with Heart Executive Leadership Team copyright Keyselle’s Canvas
Hard Hats with Heart is an American Heart Association initiative dedicated to improving the cardiovascular health of those working in the construction industry. The campaign’s focus is to integrate health, well-being, and prevention solutions into industry culture. In the U.S., construction workers have a high risk to developing cardiovascular disease. Long hours, high stress, poor nutrition, high tobacco use, and the lack of heart-strengthening exercise are among the biggest culprits. Prioritizing cardiovascular health in the workplace can lead to a safer, healthier, and more productive workplace.
This year’s campaign culminated with a celebration at Credit One Stadium on Daniel Island, attended by more than 250 construction industry leaders and employees. The 2025 event, chaired by Blake Banks of Banks Construction, featured workplace wellness displays, a mission moment and networking opportunities.
“I am proud of the success of this year’s Hard Hats with Heart campaign,” said Blake Banks, Hard Hats with Heart chairperson and operations director for Banks Construction. “The construction industry is unique in Charleston and although many of us are competitors, we come together to work toward a healthier and safer workplace. Our people are our greatest asset, and they often face high stress, long hours, and physically demanding work. It’s important to provide them with resources to support their health and well-being.”
The event also marked the debut of the Golden Hard Hats program. Companies that participate in both the Hard Hats with Heart campaign and the Lowcountry Heart Walk will earn the “Golden Hard Hat.” The inaugural Golden Hard Hat was presented to Stuart Whiteside of SeamonWhiteside for his long-time dedication to both campaigns and to the American Heart Association.
“We are so grateful to the Charleston construction leaders who have embraced this initiative,” said Katie Schumacher, executive director of the American Heart Association, Charleston. “From the launch of the event with Stuart Whiteside in 2019 to the tremendous success of this year’s campaign under Blake Banks, it’s clear that the industry is committed to the health and well-being of their employees and colleagues. Together we are creating a culture that prioritizes heart health.”
The Charleston Hard Hats with Heart campaign leads into the Lowcountry Heart Walk, which will be held on February 28, 2026. To learn more or sign up, visit www.lowcountryscheartwalk.org.
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, on Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
