ROME, N.Y. (WKTV) - America's Greatest Heart Run & Walk held its official kickoff event Tuesday. This event's purpose is designed to gear up Central New Yorkers for the big event to be held March 7. The 2009 event's goal is $1,285,000.

The kickoff was held at AmeriCU Federal Credit Union on Hill Road. Community members came together to get rallied and prepare for this year's campaign.

Corporate Chairperson Joe Anderson of AmeriCU Credit Union said, "I think in all of our families, we know someone affected by heart disease... and it's been easy for us to support it."

He also said that despite the slow economy, there has already been some impressive commitments to the event and cause.