Atlanta, GA-- Chalyse Ford has big dreams of someday becoming a professional dancer. Just 12 years old, the College Park resident has already accomplished more than many adults.  A 7th grader at Hapeville Charter School, Chalyse Ford is a dancer, walker, and yes, a philanthropist.  Lately, she has focused a lot of time on walking for a good cause--to raise funds to support cardiovascular research at Morehouse School of Medicine.

A member of St. Stephen Missionary Baptist Church in East Point, Ga., Chalyse has organized a walk-a thon for cardiovascular research at her church for the past two years, contributing more than $1,500 to MSM to benefit the Institution’s Cardiovascular Research Institute, a nationally recognized center of research excellence in cardiovascular science.

Chalyse’s interest began when she learned a church member experienced symptoms of stroke. Fortunately, the member took quick action and today is doing well.