VINITA, Okla., Dec. 12, 2024 – In a friendly but mighty competition between Ketchum fifth-grader Ruby Nair and high school senior CJ Weeks, the pair raised nearly $5,000 in support of the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge™ program this fall. Ruby’s school, Ketchum Elementary School, raised a record $8,150, more than double its fundraising in previous years.
Ruby was among the top five Kids Heart Challenge fundraisers in Oklahoma in 2024, said Brandy Miller, senior development director for school engagement with the American Heart Association-Tulsa. Ruby and CJ will be front and center at a “GLOWing Hearts” celebration and glow-in-the-dark dance party at 1:30-2:15 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20 at the elementary school, 404 N. Boston Ave.
Kids Heart Challenge is a fundraising, service-learning program that provides lessons, tools and activities to support mental and physical well-being for students, families and staff. The program has nearly 50 years of proven success rooted in scientific research which shows that kids who are regularly active feel better, improve their mental health, build self-esteem, and decrease and prevent conditions such as anxiety and depression.
10 years ago, CJ, the son of teacher Susan and P.E. coach Cecil Weeks, was an enthusiastic young fundraiser for Jump Rope for Heart, the precursor to Kids Heart Challenge. He and a talented team of classmates known as Zero Gravity performed jump rope routines for entertainment and to help kick-start local school-based campaigns.
“I discovered at 9 years old that philanthropy is important and together we can make a big difference,” said CJ. His grandmother suffered a stroke when CJ was young, and he watched her struggle to find her words and independence.
CJ made a guest appearance at the Kids Heart Challenge kickoff at Ketchum Elementary School earlier this year and challenged Ruby and her classmates to raise money for kids with “special” hearts.
Ruby, who was also a top fundraiser in years past, took CJ’s challenge to heart, said her mom, Leslie Elms Nair. Ruby’s maternal grandfather died following a massive heart attack, and her maternal great-grandmother died after suffering a stroke. Both passed before Ruby was born.
“She missed out on two great relationships she could have had in her life, and I think that was a big part of it,” Leslie said of Ruby’s desire to be involved with the American Heart Association. “She was like “I want to do this.”
Ruby fundraised over the summer, going door-to-door with two young friends in a community near Grand Lake. Armed with a homemade flier bearing a QR code, they knocked on doors and talked to strangers about the Association’s work with heart and stroke survivors. Leslie followed behind the girls in a golf cart.
“It’s hard to say ‘No’ to them,” she said.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans2 only 20% of kids get enough activity to meet physical activity recommendations. In addition to improved physical health, the benefits of physical activity for children include better grades, school attendance and classroom behavior.
“By prioritizing heart health and physical activity, the Ketchum Warriors are setting a powerful example for students, families, and the entire community,” Miller continued. “Their dedication underscores the importance of instilling healthy habits in young people, ensuring longer, healthier lives for all.”
As a result of the Ketchum students’ success, the school will receive $1,500 in gift certificates, cash and grant opportunities for equipment and resources to enhance its physical education program.
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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 or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries
Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org