PHOTOS: The 64th Annual Phoenix Heart Ball Kicks Off at Saks

While there are many causes, galas and other opportunities to give back in the City of Scottsdale, non are more prestigious than the Phoenix Heart Ball. What started in 1959 by the late Mrs. Barry Goldwater to raise awareness and funding for the American Heart Association has become the longest running fundraiser of its kind in the state, and now it’s back for its 64th year led by the newly announced Chairman Charlene Berge-Blum.

Charlene and her committee of 100+ members recently came together at Saks Fifth Avenue for the Kick-Off of the 64th Annual Phoenix Heart Ball; a time when announcements are made regarding this year’s soiree – being held at The Phoenician Resort on November 11, 2023 – and the planning begins.

After introducing her executive committee – including Vice-Chairmen Lee Courtney and Natalie Gaylord, Sweetheart Kristine Thompson and Chairman-Elect Pamela Risoleo – Charlene shared the theme for this year’s Ball, Accelerating Change. Which not only relates to her childhood growing up around cars and this year’s Honorary Chairs, Carolyn and Craig Jackson of the famous Barrett-Jackson car auction, but also the vitality, life force and energy that is translated through giving and using one’s power and passion for good.

“What an honor it is to be leading the charge of this year’s Heart Ball with so many amazing women from across the Valley,” said Charlene Berge-Blum, chairman for the 64th Annual Phoenix Heart Ball. “1 in every 5 deaths in the U.S. is caused by heart disease and we will be doing as much as we can to raise funds and awareness to help the American Heart Association change this harrowing statistic.”

The Kick-Off at Saks, with décor and floral centerpieces from White House Design Studio in this year’s color scheme of black, white, silver and all shades of purple, also included breakfast for attendees from Robert’s Catering and a “Best of Saks” Spring fashion show.

Get a glimpse below and for more information on the 64th Annual Phoenix Heart Ball, being held on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at The Phoenician Resort’s Grand Ballroom, visit phoenixheartball.heart.org.