Millions of students around the country are jumping rope and raising funds to fight against heart disease and stroke this spring. The 2008-2009 school year marks the 30th anniversary of Jump Rope For Heart, an American Heart Association event promoting the value of physical activity to elementary school children, while showing them they can contribute to the community’s welfare.

One of the many schools participating this year is Peachtree City Elementary School. The students collected donations from family and friends, turned the funds in on the day of the event and jump rope in teams or individually. In addition, they can earn thank you gifts based on how much they raise. This year the students raised over $2000.

The kids work hard to raise the money for Jump Rope For Heart because they have so much fun at the event, love jumping rope and know it is a great cause. The biggest benefit is that the money raised goes to fund live saving research and community programs to fight heart disease and stroke, the number one and three killers in America.

The American Heart Association and the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance launched Jump Rope For Heart in 1978 and the program has raised $700 million nationwide since it’s inception. In addition to raising life-saving funds, jumping rope also promotes physical activity helping kids to live stronger, more active lives. Childhood obesity is one of our nation’s leading health threats. According to the American Heart Association’s Alliance for a Healthier Generation, a collaboration with the William J. Clinton Foundation, today, 11 million kids are overweight and an additional 13 million are at risk for being overweight. Teaching the importance of physical activity in elementary school can help establish a positive attitude and appreciation for regular, daily exercise for life.

For information about the American Heart Association or participating in Jump Rope For Heart, contact the American Heart Association at 678-520-1326.

login to post comments