On Saturday, Feb. 20, 127 students from Tabernacle Elementary School jumped all over heart disease and stroke by participating in Jump Rope For Heart. This was the district’s 26th year for hosting this even and the students raised more than $14,000 for the American Heart Association. These funds will go towards research for programs and education that fight heart disease and stroke, our nation’s numbers one and number four killers.
“I’m so pleased with the success of this year’s event,” said Jump Rope for Heart coordinator Beth Manning. “Thanks to Health and Physical Education staff members Karen Ordog, Cindy Price and Lou Santoro from the Olson Middle School, the event ran smoothly and we all had a lot of fun. Many parents volunteered their time to be team leaders and registration helpers at the Saturday event. All family members and friends who contributed should be thanked for their generosity. We wouldn’t be so successful if we didn’t have the community’s support. And best of all, the kids enjoyed learning about the importance of physical activity and how they can play a role in saving lives.”
Jump Rope For Heart is a program that promotes physical activity and heart health through jumping rope. It is co-sponsored by the American Heart Association and SHAPE America-Society of Health and Physical Educators. Last year, Mrs. Manning was awarded a $2,500 grant through the AHA and SHAPE America for her commitment to JRFH. The award paid for her attendance at the SHAPE America national convention in Seattle, WA as well as a gift certificate for free PE equipment for the school. Ten other award winners from around the country were recognized and thanked for their efforts.
To make a donation or to find out more about Jump Rope For Heart, call your nearest American Heart Association office at (local phone #) or call (1–800) 242–8721. You can also visit us online at heart.org/jump.
