Enterprise Elementary in Federal Way, Washington, has been selected as one of the recipients of a financial grant from the American Heart Association to enhance inclusive physical education programs. The grant, totaling $2,414, aims to provide the school with equipment to introduce multicultural games to students during physical education classes. This initiative aligns with the American Heart Association’s commitment to promoting overall well-being and physical activity among youth.
Annie Leendertsen, a physical education teacher at Enterprise Elementary, expressed gratitude for the grant, emphasizing the importance of exposing students to games from diverse cultures. Leendertsen shared her experience of introducing Gaga Ball, a game originating from Israel, to the students last school year. She highlighted how playing Gaga Ball not only promoted physical activity but also fostered discussions about the game’s history, cultural significance, and the geography of Israel. However, due to the lack of proper equipment, such as a Gaga Pit, the activity faced challenges. With the grant funding, Leendertsen looks forward to creating a more suitable playing environment for the students.
In addition to Enterprise Elementary, seventy-seven schools nationwide that participated in either the Kids Heart Challenge or American Heart Challenge during the 2023-2024 school year were awarded grants to enhance their health and physical education programs. These grants will support various projects, including the acquisition of physical activity equipment, installation of water filling stations, and opportunities for educator training. The American Heart Association’s grant program provides funding twice a year, with the next application deadline set for December 15, 2024.
Whitney Meidl, the executive director of the American Heart Association Puget Sound, emphasized the organization’s ongoing commitment to youth well-being through in-school programs. Meidl underscored the importance of equipping young people with the knowledge and habits necessary for leading heart-healthy lives. By investing in youth health today, the American Heart Association aims to build a healthier future for all individuals.
The Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge programs are evidence-based initiatives that promote regular physical activity among students, with the goal of ensuring a healthier adulthood. These programs engage more than 10 million students in 20,000 schools annually, offering them the opportunity to contribute positively to their communities through service-learning activities. Participants learn essential skills such as making healthy food choices, avoiding vaping and tobacco use, and mastering Hands-Only CPR. Educators receive valuable resources and support to prioritize both their physical and mental well-being.
Apart from promoting heart health and physical activity, students and families participating in the programs also have the opportunity to support the American Heart Association by fundraising. The funds raised contribute to advancing cardiovascular research and outreach programs, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and healthier communities. Schools interested in accessing the grant opportunity are encouraged to register for the Kids Heart Challenge or American Heart Challenge for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year to benefit from the resources and support provided by the American Heart Association.
As the American Heart Association celebrates its Centennial year in 2024, the organization remains dedicated to its mission of promoting longer, healthier lives for all individuals. Through collaboration with various organizations and the commitment of millions of volunteers, the American Heart Association continues to fund innovative research, advocate for public health, and share lifesaving resources. By advancing health and hope for everyone, everywhere, the organization looks forward to making a lasting impact in the years to come.
**Subheadings**
### Enhancing Physical Education Through Multicultural Games
Enterprise Elementary in Federal Way, Washington, receives a financial grant from the American Heart Association to introduce multicultural games to students during physical education classes, promoting inclusivity and well-being.
### Impact of Grant Funding on School Wellness Initiatives
The annual grant program by the American Heart Association supports schools like Enterprise Elementary in extending their wellness initiatives, encouraging physical activity, and creating an inclusive environment for all students.
### Commitment to Youth Health and Heart-Healthy Lifestyles
The Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge programs, rooted in proven science, aim to instill healthy habits in students, empowering them to lead heart-healthy lives and contribute positively to their communities.
