Sumter County Government earns top fundraiser honors for Sumter Heart Walk

Sumter County Government was recognized Wednesday afternoon as the top fundraiser for the 2018 Sumter County Heart Walk with a total of $28,395 raised for the American Heart Association.

During a luncheon at Palmetto Health Tuomey, Meghan Brunetti of the American Heart Association told the crowd that her organization’s mission is to build healthier lives free of cardiovascular diseases and strokes.

“We are working hard for healthier adults, more active children and stronger survivors,” she said. “We want everyone to live longer, healthier lives so we all can enjoy the precious moments in life.”

To date, over $250,000 was raised, she said, as she thanked all the volunteers and participants for their hard work.

There were 23 Top Walkers, she said, with individuals earning that designation from raising $1,000 or more for the American Heart Association. Brianna Jones of the Sumter County Register of Deeds office raised $4,787.79 and was recognized as the Top Walker for 2018.

Brunetti said a total of 158 teams registered across Sumter, Lee and Clarendon counties this year, and the top three teams were: The Red Heart Hustlers ($7,437.79) led by Brianna Jones; The Caring Hearts ($8,085) led by Kim Billie of the Sumter County Auditor’s office; and The Treasurer’s Team ($8,406) led by Angela Geddings of the Sumter County Treasurer’s office.

And taking first place among all companies participating in the 2018 Sumter County Heart Walk was Sumter County Government.

“I’m very proud of everyone’s hard work this year,” said Sumter County Assistant Administrator Lorraine Dennis. “And I’m especially proud of the Register of Deeds office, the Auditor’s office and the Treasurer’s office for leading the way and making this possible. It’s all for a good cause and I look forward to seeing all Sumter County employees get involved with this next year.”