North Broward Preparatory School: #1 School in the Nation for 3 Years in a Row for the American Heart Association

Setting a New Standard in School Philanthropy

North Broward Preparatory School has achieved a remarkable milestone by raising over $236,000 for the American Heart Association's Kids Heart Challenge in 2023. This outstanding achievement marks the largest single donation ever received by the organization from a school in its forty-five-year history. This success underscores NBPS's unwavering commitment to promoting whole-body wellness and supporting the mental and physical health of its students, in alignment with our mission to be global citizens through collaboration with the United Nations' seventeen Sustainable Development Goals. The Kids Heart Challenge focuses on Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being. This accomplishment not only highlights the dedication of our students, staff, and community but also reinforces our dedication to fostering a culture of health and well-being that extends beyond the classroom.

Educating Through Service-Learning

The Kids Heart Challenge for Elementary Schools, facilitated by the American Heart Association, serves not only as a fundraiser but also as a profound educational opportunity for students. The challenge is accepted by schools across the country, delivering education on philanthropy, volunteerism, and the importance of heart health. Students improve their own health and better their character while raising life-saving donations to help kids with special hearts. Personal stories from heart hero student survivors and advocates inspire and motivate students to champion the mission of the American Heart Association. 

Promoting Physical Activity and STEAM Education 

Beyond fundraising, the Kids Heart Challenge plays a crucial role in promoting physical activity among students—a critical component considering the sedentary lifestyles prevalent among today's youth. The program's curriculum integrates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education, encompassing essential topics such as teamwork, kindness, anti-vaping initiatives, sleep hygiene, mental well-being, and, of course, physical activity. These initiatives are designed to enhance physical health and foster emotional resilience and social skills among participating students. 

Impact on Cardiovascular Health and Research 

The funds raised through the Kids Heart Challenge significantly support the American Heart Association's mission to combat cardiovascular diseases, the number one health problem in America. Contributions go towards funding innovative research, advocating for healthier communities, and improving patient care nationwide. Since its inception, the program has played a pivotal role in advancing scientific research and outreach efforts aimed at improving health outcomes and building healthier communities. Locally in Miami Dade and Broward counties, since 2001 more than $30.5 million in research funding has been distributed. This has helped fund institutional research at the University of Miami, Florida International University and Nova Southeastern University in biomedical and clinical sciences, biological sciences, biochemistry and cell biology, medical physiology, and engineering. 

A Partnership for Compassionate Community 

The collaboration between North Broward Preparatory School and the American Heart Association exemplifies a longstanding dedication to nurturing a compassionate community. Together, they have set a powerful example of collective action in advocating for children's heart health and advancing the mission of the American Heart Association. 

This record-breaking fundraising achievement for the Kids Heart Challenge not only underscores its commitment to holistic student wellness but also highlights the transformative impact of community collaboration. By prioritizing children's health and well-being, the school has demonstrated how collective efforts can make a profound and lasting difference in the lives of children and families nationwide.

Development and school engagement directors, Region Vice President Casey McElhinney, and Bruna Abs da Cruz share that NBPS’s impact truly matters. This partnership serves as an inspiration for others to join in supporting initiatives that promote physical activity, health education, and compassionate community engagement. Together, we can continue to champion children's heart health and strive towards a future where all children can lead healthy, fulfilling lives.

Sources:

- American Heart Association

- North Broward Preparatory School’s Social Purpose