2015 DC Heart Ball

What an amazing turnout this year for the 2015 DC Heart Ball. This premier society gala is an annual event to benefit both the American Heart Association- Greater Washington Region and the American Stroke Association!  

The black-tie event, entitled 'Joie de Vivre' was held Saturday, February 28, 2015 at the exquisite Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Washington, D.C. Vice-Chair of The Clinton Foundation, Chelsea Clinton was the Honorary Speaker for the evening and special awards were presented to some of the nation's best leaders.

Sponsors included AT&T, The Bender Family and Juniper Networks to name a few.  

Chelsea Clinton, Vice Chair of The Clinton Foundation.

I was thrilled with this year's French Parisian theme, which included romantic music, an Effle Tower and a mock up of the famous Pont des Arts "love locks bridge."  What better way to spend an evening giving back to a worthy cause than in a gorgeous venue such as this one?

Over $1.1 million was raised from the silent and live auctions along with the overwhelming attendance from DC, Maryland and Virginia's most prominent medical and community leaders. 

If you missed the opportunity to support the American Heart Association at this social, please visit their website for upcoming events.

"Helping those who give back, pay back."

Keia Brown, Miss District of Columbia International 2015

National Wear Red Weekend 2015

February 6, 2015 was this year's National Wear Red Day in observance of the Go Red for Women Campaign.  I was proud to wear my red to work that day and even encouraged my co-workers to embrace the initiative.  I organized an afternoon "RED Party" where red-themed desserts were enjoyed by all.

Later that evening, I was invited by the American Heart Association- Greater Washington Region to attend the Crystal Couture Sale & Fashion Show in Crystal City, Virginia as a special guest.  The local designers and retailers featured their clothing on the runway, which was aired live on a local radio station.

On Monday, February 9th, I volunteered at the American Heart Association Greater Washington Region's Affair of the Heart Luncheon & Fashion Show as a Social Media Correspondent.  The event was a sold out show and was a huge success.  The grand ballroom and VIP Room were overwhelmed with exhilarating energy and passion for the cause to fight heart disease.  I was extremely proud and humbled to be a part of this year's event.

Fashion Show by Bloomingdale's

To become a volunteer with your American Heart Association chapter, please visit www.heart.org

"Life is Why!" - American Heart Association

Keia Brown

Miss District of Columbia International 2014

NBC4 Health & Fitness Expo 2015

The NBC Health & Fitness Expo was held January 10 & 11, 2015 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.  I was delighted to be invited by the American Heart Association Team to volunteer at their booth and serve as their Social Media Guru over the weekend!

As a volunteer, one of our missions was to encourage attendees to take the Sodium Pledge by agreeing to reduce the amount of daily salt intake.  We also informed people about the Go Red for Women Campaign and distributed healthy recipes and helpful tips to reduce the risk of heart disease.

#SneakySalt

During the expo, I met with fellow fitness and health exhibitors and speakers.  I also had the opportunity to meet NBC Special Corespondent, Meredith Vieira to talk about the partnership of the International Pageant system with the Go Red for Women Campaign, and my personal platform, SponsorChange.

Keia with NBC Special Corespondent, Meredith Vieira

"Love yourself enough to live a healthy lifestyle" - Jules Robson

Keia Brown

Miss District of Columbia International 2014

Greater Washington Region Heart Walk 2014

With "Sneaky Salt"

This past Saturday, I had the pleasure to volunteer at this year’s Heart Walk at the National Mall in Washington D.C.  We could not have asked for a better day for the event and the turnout was impressive.

During my volunteer assignment, I encouraged participants to Take the Pledge to reduce their daily amount of sodium intake, which may reduce the chances of heart disease and stroke.

I had the opportunity to nice people and hear heartwarming stories from survivors and those remembering loved ones lost to this deadly killer.  I volunteered alongside a vibrant woman who has suffered two strokes and has since then been a volunteer with the AHA association.  She has a great spirit and was amazing to work with.

One of my memorable moments at this year's event was not only learning how to give CPR, but also to do so for a dog.  I was given lessons at the CPR Program Booth provided by the District of Columbia Fire and EMS.  

Giving instructions to participants.

Learning how to help a dog when it is choking.

Throughout my reign I will continue to promote this important cause, along with the Go Red for Women campaign.  Visit the GreaterWashington Region American Heart Association’s website for upcoming events!

 "Research has shown that people who volunteer often live longer."- Allen Klein

   Keia Brown

   Miss District of Columbia International 2015

American Heart Association

Healthy Heart <3 

American Heart Association Go Red for Women Campaign

The American Heart Association is the nation's oldest, larges voluntary organization devoted to fighting cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

Mission: Building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.  Our mission drives everything we do.  

The Mrs, Miss and Teen International Pageants continues to maintain an alliance with the Go Red for Women Campaign, an affiliate of the American Heart Association.

How Does This Effect Me?

In 2001, my beloved grandmother, Shirley Green died from chronic heart failure at the early age of 65.  In addition, 75% of my family members are currently at high risk for the disease.  It is my mission to participate and embrace opportunities within the American Heart Association to build a greater awareness of the disease and implement healthy strategies to reduce risks.  Knowing is key to a long-lasting life!

My Grandparents pictured with their grandchildren.

Reason to Volunteer...

Heart disease and stroke are the #1 cause of death in the Greater Washington region.  Join the American Heart Association's mission and become a volunteer, just as I did to build healthier lives in your community today!

Register here to volunteer! 

Every journey begins with a single step, but you'll never finish if you don't start.- Anonymous

Keia Brown
Miss District of Columbia International 2015