North Broward Preparatory School leads nation in Kids Heart Challenge for third consecutive year

COCONUT CREEK, FL., July 23, 2024— Students at North Broward Preparatory School (NBPS) completed the Kids Heart Challenge supporting their long-term mental and physical health while raising funds to support the mission of the American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all. Of the over 25,000 schools that participated in the program nationwide, NBPS has been named No.1 in the country for a third year in a row, raising over $130,000 in lifesaving funds.

North Broward Preparatory School has participated in the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge for 30 years. In 2023, the school broke a historic record raising over $236,000,, achieving the largest donation ever made by a school to the American Heart Association. 

The American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge™ offers a variety of physical activities to get elementary students’ hearts pumping such as dance, basketball or jumping rope paired with life-saving skills training, like Hands-Only CPR™. The program has more than 40 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[1]. 

“As we know, the early years play a vital role in developing health-related behaviors. The KHC program inspires and grows students’ understanding of wellness in a fun and innovative way,” said Casey McElhinney, region vice president of development for school engagement, for the American Heart Association. “Pairing that excitement with raising funds for children with special hearts, it allows students to grow their commitment to wellness beyond just themselves. This is truly a moment in time and an incredible accomplishment for NBPS. We are so proud of this community for making children’s heart health a top priority.”

Funds raised by Kids Heart Challenge participants support the American Heart Association’s scientific research and outreach programs, paving the way for breakthroughs and advancements that improve health outcomes and create healthier communities.

“Our school has a long-standing tradition of supporting the American Heart Association through the Kids Heart Challenge,” said Kathleen Malanowski, lower school principal, North Broward Preparatory School. “Reaching this level of collaborative donation is truly remarkable. It speaks to the caring and compassionate community that our school embodies. We are immensely proud of this collective effort.”

The educational curriculum and physical activities included in the Kids Heart Challenge program help meet the needs of today’s youth and educators in virtual, hybrid and socially distanced classroom settings. The program, a successful part of thousands of schools from coast-to-coast, targets improving whole-body wellness which is vital to drive immediate and long-term health in children.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans[2] 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.

Schools interested in participating in the Kids Heart Challenge can register online at www.heart.org/getstarted. 

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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: 214-706-1173

Christina Vitale: christina.vitale@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org