Meet Heart Ball Director, Madi Short

Get to know Madi Short, the new Des Moines Heart Ball Director.

What brought you to be an advocate for the American Heart Association?

I was hired with the AHA mid-December as the Heart Ball Development Director in Des Moines. I am so excited about the opportunity to not only raise money for an incredible mission, but to do it with the support of the community of Des Moines. I am originally from Des Moines, so I know this city has a lot of heart and it’s people’s capacity for generosity and kindness knows no limits. The opportunity to channel that generosity through the Heart Ball is something I’m so grateful to be a part of.

What issues or policies are you most passionate about and why?

One of the issues I’m most passionate is the overall health of youth and to advocate healthier lifestyles them. For the first time in decades kids are being born with shorter life expectancies than their parents, and they deserve more than that. Everything from ensuring the Physical Education remains in schools, to making sure kids are educated on healthy food options are issues I’m proud that AHA promotes and supports.

What is your favorite advocacy memory or experience so far and what made it great?

My first day with AHA one of our donors shared with me his connection to our mission through his son, who was born with a heart defect. His family made a choice from the day he was born to partake in a healthier lifestyle and do everything they could to prevent future heart damage. Hearing how people are truly connected to our mission and how they’re committing to living healthier lifestyles is inspiring and makes coming to work every day exciting and worthwhile.

What is your favorite way to be active?

I love being outdoors whether that be hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, skiing/snowboarding, or just playing basketball in the driveway with my nieces and nephews.

What is your favorite fruit or vegetable?

I’d eat avocados on notebook paper, I love them so much!