The Heart Attack program offers support for anyone in the community needing love, solidarity, appreciation, and a chance to feel seen. What started as one neighbor’s small act of kindness quickly grew into a volunteer network of 300+ Daybreak residents delivering personalized “heart attacks” across the neighborhood.
What’s a “heart attack”?
A “heart attack” is a cheerful doorstep surprise tailored to the recipient. Volunteers assemble:
- Colorful paper hearts with encouraging words, adhered to the front door
- A small gift curated to the recipient’s likes and interests
- A handwritten note specific to the support they need
When & who
Deliveries occur Monday–Friday and serve neighbors community‑wide—including families, teachers, and health‑care workers—especially during pandemic‑related stress.
“I wanted to help create a community of love, togetherness, support, diversity, acceptance, and fun.” — Danielle Johnson
How it started
When Danielle Johnson moved to Daybreak, she looked for an authentic way to serve. In early 2020 she heard about a child needing encouragement. She decorated the family’s front door with hearts, left a thoughtful gift, and wrote a note. The response was so moving that she repeated the effort for another child. After asking on social media if anyone else could use a “heart attack,” she received 22 requests within hours—and dozens of offers to help. The volunteer group has grown ever since.
Holiday impact: Over the 2020 holiday season, the group assisted 100+ families with coats, clothing, and gifts.
How to give (or request) a Heart Attack
- Join the Facebook group: Daybreak Heart Attacks & Health Care Hero Honors.
- Send a direct message to Danielle to nominate a Daybreak resident, teacher, or health‑care worker.
- Share availability for weekday deliveries; the team coordinates the rest.
Danielle is always seeking volunteers and donations. Weekly opportunities are posted in the Facebook group.
About Danielle
Danielle and her husband have been married for 10 years and have two children. The family also rescues dogs, which she says “holds our family together.”
In her free time she enjoys walking around Oquirrh Lake and watching the neighborhood birds—ducks, seagulls, ravens, and especially doves.
Why Daybreak?
“I love how people pull together to help their fellow community members… Community should be a soft place to fall where we can find peace, safety, and a sense of belonging.”
Gallery
Photos from volunteer deliveries appear throughout the original post.
Explore more
Get connected
- LiveDAYBREAK programs & events
- Daybreak amenities
Plan a visit
Stop by the Info Studio at the Cove House for maps and neighborhood tips.
6650 W. Lake Avenue, South Jordan, UT 84009 · 801.446.9022
