PENDLETON, September 24, 2024 — The American Heart Association, celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service, proudly recognized Pendleton’s Casey VanDorn, the recipient of the Young Heart Leadership Award, for their outstanding contribution to the Association’s in-school programs, Kids 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 Casey and all of their work in supporting Kids Heart Challenge at McKay Creek Elementary,” said Kelsea Azurdia, American Heart Association school engagement director. “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 here in Pendleton.”

  • The Young Heart Leadership Award is given each year to a student who has demonstrated the highest levels of leadership in action that contributed to the growth in Kids Heart Challenge.

VanDorn, a Pendleton High School senior, was nominated by local American Heart Association staff for the national award. With more than a decade of Kids Heart Challenge involvement, he is a shining example of resilience and leadership. VanDorn’s impact as a heart survivor of two open heart surgeries continues to be felt. He speaks passionately at Mckay Creek, Elementary's annual assembly, inspiring younger students to take charge of their health and to give back. He understands firsthand the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association and brings that unique perspective to his efforts through unwavering commitment. VanDorn and his family have raised over $23,000 for Kids Heart Challenge.

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 www.heart.org/getstarted.

Additional Resources:

Leer en Español

###

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 in Orgon on heart.orgFacebook, InstagramX or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. 

   

For media inquiries, contact:
Jay Wintermeyer: jay.wintermeyer@heart.org