Rhythm of the Heart™ Facilitator Certification
Train to deliver evidence-informed heart health education that helps communities recognize symptoms and advocate for early detection.
The Problem
(Why This Program Exists)
Congenital heart defects are often associated with childhood. However, many individuals live with undiagnosed structural heart conditions well into adulthood.
Symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, and reduced stamina are frequently normalized or attributed to other causes, delaying diagnosis and treatment.
Research examining the lived experiences of adults diagnosed later in life reveals a common theme: many wished they had recognized the warning signs sooner.
This gap highlights the need for community-based heart health education that promotes awareness, self-advocacy, and early medical evaluation.
The Solution
(Rhythm of the Heart™ Curriculum)
The Rhythm of the Heart™ curriculum was developed to translate research into accessible education that communities can use to strengthen heart health awareness.
The program equips facilitators with tools to:
• introduce heart health education in community settings
• help individuals recognize potential warning signs
• encourage proactive conversations with healthcare providers
• promote heart-healthy lifestyle practices
Through this program, facilitators can deliver impactful education that empowers individuals to better understand their heart health.
Who Should Become Certified
Ideal Facilitators
The Rhythm of the Heart™ facilitator certification is designed for:
• Cooperative Extension agents
• Community health educators
• Community organizations
• Nonprofit leaders
• Faith-based health ministry coordinators
• Wellness educators
• Public health professionals
Anyone passionate about improving heart health awareness can benefit from this training.
Certification Includes
Participants receive:
• Rhythm of the Heart™ facilitator training
• official facilitator guide
• participant materials
• program implementation guidance
• certification of completion
• a one-year facilitator license to deliver the curriculum
Certified facilitators will be equipped to deliver the program through workshops, health fairs, and community education events.
How the Training Works
Training Format
Certification is delivered through the Wellness Elevated Academy, where participants will:
Complete the Rhythm of the Heart™ facilitator training
Access curriculum materials and implementation guidance
Receive certification upon completion
Once certified, facilitators can begin delivering the program in their communities..
Developed by Dr. Jacklyn Sanders
Dr. Jacklyn Sanders is a community nutritionist and health educator whose doctoral research examined the lived experiences of adults diagnosed with congenital heart defects later in life.
Her work focuses on strengthening community health literacy, promoting early recognition of symptoms, and empowering individuals to advocate for their health.
Through Uniquely Defined, LLC and Wellness Elevated™, she develops educational programs that translate research into accessible community health education.
Community Impact
The Rhythm of the Heart™ curriculum has already been introduced through community education programs and health awareness events.
These programs help individuals better understand their heart health and encourage proactive engagement with healthcare providers.
Ready to Bring Rhythm of the Heart™ to Your Community?
Become a certified facilitator and help strengthen heart health awareness in the communities you serve.