Bluffton fifth grader named local Youth Heart Ambassador

BLUFFTON, S.C. Jan. 2, 2026 — As children across the country face growing physical and mental health challenges [1], the American Heart Association a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, has selected Lily Collins as a local Youth Heart Ambassador for 2026.

Lily, a fifth- grade student at Okatie Elementary School in Bluffton, South Carolina, will serve alongside other youth volunteers across the country to support the Heart Association’s school-based programs, Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™. These programs  inspire students to build lifelong healthy habits and learn lifesaving skills, including Hands-Only CPR.

Youth Heart Ambassadors are nominated from across the country and recognized for their personal connection to heart disease or stroke through their own experiences, a loved one’s journey or a passion for wellness. Lily’s mother, Vanessa, works in cardiology, and Lily is inspired by the dedication of healthcare providers who save lives every day. She has also watched both her mother and her Nana navigate heart-related health challenges.

During the 2024-25 school year, Lily ranked as the sixth top fundraiser in South Carolina for the Kids Heart Challenge™, raising nearly $2,500.

“It’s inspiring to see a student from our community step up as a leader for youth health,” said Rachel Stanley, school engagement director, American Heart Association. “Lily has already made a tremendous impact through her fundraising efforts. She brings an important voice to this mission, and we’re excited to see the difference she’ll make as a Youth Heart Ambassador.

As a Youth Heart Ambassador, Lily will raise awareness about heart disease and stroke, advocate for healthy habits and promote lifesaving skills like Hands-Only CPR.

“I am inspired by my Nana, my mom and her coworkers, “said Lily. “I am humble and grateful that I am able to represent the American Heart Association.“

Backed by science, the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge reach more than 20,000 schools nationwide, teaching students how to care for their hearts, minds and bodies through age-appropriate lessons and activities. These programs encourage students to get active, build confidence and support the Heart Association’s work to fund lifesaving research and education around heart disease and stroke prevention, cardiac emergency preparedness and more.

Lily and Okatie Elementary School will kick off their Kids Heart Challenge program on January 7. You can support their efforts here.

Schools can register now to participate in the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge programs. Nominations for Youth Heart Ambassadors are accepted year-round. To learn more or to apply to become a future Youth Heart Ambassador, visit heart.org/youthambassador

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries:

Jessica Rodgers: Jessica.rodgers@heart.org

Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org