NFL Donates Super Bowl Tickets and $50,000 in School Supplies for CPR Commitment
In a heartwarming collaboration between the American Heart Association and the National Football League (NFL), students across the United States have the opportunity to learn life-saving hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills while also earning exciting rewards. The NFL has generously donated Super Bowl LIX tickets and $50,000 in school supplies for physical education equipment as part of this initiative to promote CPR adoption.
According to the American Heart Association, 9 out of 10 people who experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrests do not survive, largely due to the lack of immediate CPR intervention. Performing CPR, particularly when done promptly, can significantly increase a person’s chances of survival, sometimes even doubling or tripling their odds of making it through such a critical moment.
The enticing incentives provided by the NFL have encouraged more students to engage in and complete the hands-only CPR module, thereby expanding their knowledge on how to respond in the event of a cardiac emergency not just for themselves but also for their families. Nancy Brown, the CEO of the American Heart Association, expressed her satisfaction with the increased participation, stating, “Together with the NFL, we have been able to reach more schools and educate more students on the lifesaving technique of CPR.”
Students involved in the American Heart Association’s school programs, Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™, receive free hands-only CPR training to equip them with the confidence and skills needed to respond effectively in the event of a cardiac emergency. Every year, over 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the United States, with 70% of them taking place in homes. Surprisingly, research indicates that even children as young as four years old can play a crucial role in improving survival rates by promptly calling 911 in such situations.
As a global leader in CPR science, education, and training, the American Heart Association sets the standard for CPR guidelines. The partnership with the NFL underscores the association’s dedication to CPR education and its goal to double emergency cardiac survival rates by 2030. Given that nearly three-quarters of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen in homes, knowing how to perform CPR maneuvers is vital. More than 350,000 people in the U.S. experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrests annually, emphasizing the importance of widespread CPR knowledge.
The NFL’s commitment to supporting CPR education is further demonstrated through the production of an inspirational video featuring Damar Hamlin, a safety for the Buffalo Bills and a survivor of cardiac arrest. Hamlin’s story highlights how CPR saved his life and encourages children to learn this life-saving skill. Each elementary school student who completes the online hands-only CPR learning module is eligible for a chance to win two tickets to Super Bowl LIX in 2025. Additionally, schools participating in the Kids Heart Challenge are entered into a draw to receive $10,000 in physical education equipment for their students.
Looking ahead, the NFL Foundation has reaffirmed its support for CPR education for the 2024-2025 school year. Once again, five participating students will receive tickets to Super Bowl LX in 2026, while five schools will benefit from $10,000 grants to enhance their physical education equipment. Enrollment is now open for those who complete the Finn’s Mission. Parents and school administrators can visit heart.org/schools to learn how to involve their students.
With a strong foundation in physical activity and a proven scientific background, the Kids Heart Challenge has evolved beyond traditional gym activities to meet the needs of today’s youth and educators. The program offers a variety of physical activities like dancing, basketball, and jump rope to get elementary students’ hearts pumping, along with digital missions such as hands-only CPR training. For 48 years, the association has worked with schools nationwide to promote physical health and wellbeing.
The American Heart Association urges individuals everywhere to join the Nation of Lifesavers initiative and make CPR awareness and education a permanent fixture in all communities. Take 90 seconds to learn how to save a life at www.heart.org/nation.
In conclusion, the collaboration between the American Heart Association and the NFL is not just about teaching CPR; it’s about empowering a generation of young people to be prepared and ready to act in times of crisis. By equipping students with life-saving skills and knowledge, we can create a safer and more resilient society where everyone is a potential lifesaver. Together, we can make a difference and save lives.
