Pasco, Wash., October 9, 2025 — ensuring all Washington children have the opportunity to reach their full potential and build a long and healthy life is one goal of the American Heart Association’s school programs, yet only 1 in 4 kids currently gets the recommended amount of daily physical activity[1]. With physical inactivity and mental health challenges on the rise among youth, schools like Mark Twain Elementary in Pasco, Wash. are taking action to create healthier learning environments. To support them in their effort, the American Heart Association, a global force changing the future of health of all, recently awarded a $1,919 grant to Mark Twain Elementary through its Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™ programs.

“Every child should have the opportunity to grow up strong, healthy and ready to thrive,” said Whitney Meidl, executive director of the American Heart Association – Washington. “These Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge grants help make that vision a reality by supporting school initiatives that teach healthy habits early and empower students with lifesaving skills. By instilling a culture of health in youth today, we’re building a healthier future for everyone.”

Mark Twain Elementary received the award as part of the latest round of funding from the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge grant program, which supports projects that help increase physical activity, improve mental well-being or provide tools for emergency preparedness. The school was specifically interested in increasing student access to net sports such as volleyball and badminton as they have been popular at the school and the current equipment is exceeding its lifespan.

“As a PE teacher, what I love about net sports is that they can be enjoyed at any age and skill level,” said Merrily Downard, physical education teacher at Mark Twain Elementary. “Our goal as educators is to introduce students to a variety of ways to be active and help them find one that they can enjoy for a lifetime. The net sports units will help build cardiovascular fitness, strength and agility alongside social and recreational skills like teamwork, fun and communication. We are incredibly grateful for the American Heart Association’s support in enhancing these valuable lessons for our school community.”

Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge are rooted in proven science and reach millions of students each year. Participants and their families learn how to eat smart, manage stress, avoid tobacco and vaping, recognize the signs of heart attack and stroke and more. They’re also introduced to Hands-Only CPR, a lifesaving skill that children as young as nine can learn and administer in the event of witnessing a sudden cardiac arrest.

To be eligible for a school wellness grant, schools must be registered for the Kids Heart Challenge or American Heart Challenge and complete the program. The next opportunity to apply for a grant will open later this school year. Schools interested in implanting the Kids Heart Challenge or American Heart Challenge at their school can register now for this school year by visiting heart.org/getstarted.

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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. In Washington, visit heart.org/Washington, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or X.

For Media Inquiries:

Valerie Koch, valerie.koch@heart.org

Lily Gordon, lily.gordon@heart.org

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

heart.org and stroke.org