LAS VEGAS, NV September 11, 2024 — The American Heart Association, celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service, proudly recognized Kenneth Divich Elementary as the recipient of the Kids Heart Challenge Top Finn’s Mission School for their outstanding contribution to the Association’s in-school programs, Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™. This prestigious national award, presented annually, was announced during the virtual Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge awards ceremony on September 10, 2024. School leaders, volunteers, and supporters from across the country joined to celebrate those who excelled in fundraising, brought innovation to the in-school initiatives and led the programs with passion.
Both the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge are rooted in proven science, which has shown that kids who are regularly active have a better chance of a healthy adulthood2. Each year, these service-learning programs engage more than 10 million students in approximately 20,000 schools in every state in the country. Students learn how to improve their overall health while making a positive impact on others. Through engaging lesson plans and interactive technology, students get active, have fun and learn lifesaving skills like Hands-Only CPR.
“We are incredibly proud of Kenneth Divich elementary and all of their work in supporting The Kids Heart Challenge,” said Senior Director Leland Brandon. “Schools play a vital role in building a foundation of healthy living for future generations and we are thrilled to see our lifesaving mission touch the lives of students, schools and educators right here in Las Vegas."
Kenneth Divich was nominated by local American Heart Association staff for the national award. The school had highest student participation in Finn’s Challenge among 20,000+ schools nationally for the 2023-2024 academic year. Students raised over $52,000, a Nevada public school record. All students learned hands only CPR. The Divich Knights also were recognized as #1 in the Nation for the third year in a row for having the most students and staff complete Finn’s Mission with 298 Finn’s Missions completed!
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, less than 25% of children and adolescents ages 6 to 17 get the recommended 60 minutes or more of daily physical activity. Both the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge are rooted in proven science, which has shown that kids who are regularly active have a better chance of a healthy adulthood.
To learn more about American Heart Association youth-based programs visit heart.org/getstarted.
###
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X, Instagram or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Name: Christopher Calloway; Christopher.Calloway@heart.org
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org