Max Baer Heart Fund

Max Baer was a former heavyweight boxing champion and an active member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles. Known for his big heart and colorful sense of humor, Max was well loved by his fellow Eagles. When Max died of a heart attack in 1959, the Eagles created a charity fund as a tribute to his memory and as a means of combating the disease that killed him.

According to the American Heart Association, more than 71 million Americans are affected with heart disease.

The Max Baer Heart Fund’s primary purpose is to aid in heart research and education. Since the fund started in 1959, millions of dollars have been donated to universities, medical centers and hospitals across the United States and Canada for heart research and education.

Early diagnosis of heart disease is very important and can determine quality of life. Local aerie and auxiliaries sponsor free public CPR classes, blood pressure checks and blood sugar screenings, administered by licensed instructors. After sponsoring a CPR class, the local aerie/auxiliary can apply to give a grant to their local emergency response team to purchase life saving equipment and technology.