Hearts for Russ was founded in 2014 after the loss of our beloved Russ Housman. He was a husband, father, brother, and friend who touched the lives of many during his 45 years. Despite being born with a severe heart condition, Russ lived a rich and fulfilling life. As the husband of Pam and father to daughters Carollynn and Cydney, Russ was a larger-than-life presence who brightened any room with his good humor and infectious spirit. Russ passed away days after an unsuccessful heart transplant in 2013, and we still miss him dearly.

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In our grief, we decided to take action by founding Hearts for Russ, a non-profit dedicated to making a difference within the organ transplant community. Although Russ did not survive his transplant, the experience profoundly changed us. We have since dedicated ourselves to helping other families achieve better outcomes through the miracle of organ donation. We come together to celebrate Russ by raising funds to support non-profits that assist families undergoing the transplant process. We also advocate for organ donation registration and living donor awareness to help save lives. We honor heroes who have impacted the broader organ transplant community with their skills, passion, and time.  Through the vehicle of our Hearts for Russ Golf Tournament & Charity Awards Dinner each fall, we have raised over $500,000 in order to support wonderful non-profit partners making a difference every day. 

We hope you will join us by engaging with Hearts for Russ and supporting our important cause.