Being a sweetheart takes commitment and work, especially if you are a Sweetheart for the American Heart Association. The 2015 Sweethearts, all high school sophomores, were welcomed Aug. 19 with a reception at the Country Club of Little Rock.
The work and commitment come in the form of community service and education hours that must be earned by the young women during their six months as Sweethearts. In addition, they learn CPR and other heart-healthy habits and may spend time volunteering at local hospitals. The sophomore with the most service and education hours is eligible for the Sotomora Service Award and those volunteering 100 hours or more receive the Sweetheart Silver Service Award.
The program, which culminates with the Heart Ball on Feb. 7, was founded by Eileen and Dr. Ricardo Sotomora in 1998. The Sotomoras also sponsored the welcome reception.
This year the program has 80 Sweethearts, the largest class ever.
-- Story and photos by Cary Jenkins
High Profile on 08/24/2014