Jim Bischoff: A You're the Cure Volunteer We are Thankful For

During the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, AHA staff are taking time and recognizing a volunteer they are most thankful for. Melissa Brown, Grassroots Director for the Great Rivers Affiliate, wrote the following about a special volunteer in their area: Jim Bischoff of Ohio.

Jim is a longtime AHA and You’re the Cure advocate—the kind we all wish we had more of. Jim has participated in both state and federal lobby days for many years and regularly calls and meets with his lawmakers in-district on AHA issues. He is a former AHA affiliate board member and has served on his local board as well. Jim is an active member of our Ohio Field Representative team and on our stroke policy volunteer group.

Jim not only understands our legislative priorities, but also is a great asset in determining advocacy strategy.  He is always willing to give of his time – whether speaking to legislators, assisting with training of other advocates at Ohio Advocacy Days or local board meetings, media advocacy or recruiting volunteers.  Jim has been critical in advancing our issues by cultivating a deep relationship with not only his House and Senate members, but also with the current Senate president.  He recently gave compelling testimony on HB 427, the Ohio Stroke Bill.  In addition, he followed up with the Senate President to secure his support for quick movement of the bill once it reaches the Senate.

Jim was selected to attend the White House briefing on Cardiovascular Health on February 24.  He was selected based on his leadership role with Ohio Advocacy and through his support at many federal advocacy days.

Jim is personally a survivor of heart disease, which is what originally brought him to the organization in 1992.  Since then, his son-in-law experienced a stroke.  He takes these personal stories, with his knowledge of the political process, to advance our issues. It is his mission to assist the organization in making a difference in the lives and outcomes of others.  Through advocacy, he seeks to increase his impact, including sharing his experience and expertise with AHA Advocacy to bring others into the organization.

American Heart Association staff agree with Cresha Auck, Ohio Government Relations Director, when she says, “Jim is the face of the American Heart Association in Ohio. His knowledge, dedication and passion are unequaled.”