Craig Hill Elementary School kicks off heart-healthy challenge with new recess equipment

The American Heart Association inspires students to stay active with new recess equipment thanks to support from John. W. Danforth Company

ROCHESTER, N.Y, - With only 1 in 4 children in the U.S. getting the recommended amount of daily physical activity1, Craig Hill Elementary School is working to create a healthier future through the Kids Heart Challenge™. Led by the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, the school-based program equips students with the tools and confidence to care for their physical and emotional well-being.  

The Kids Heart Challenge™ is rooted in proven science which has shown that kids who are regularly active have a better chance of a healthy adulthood2. In addition to improved physical health, the benefits of physical activity for children include better grades, school attendance and classroom behavior. Physical activity can also help kids feel better, improve mental health, build self-esteem and decrease and prevent conditions such as anxiety and depression.  

As part of the celebration, the school received new physical education and playground equipment through the Recess Reboot initiative, sponsored by John W. Danforth Company. The Recess Reboot program helps schools enhance physical activity opportunities by providing new PE and recess equipment. The John W. Danforth team is committed to student health and wellness, and they joined the school for the equipment presentation during their Kid’s Heart Challenge kickoff assembly.  

“We are proud to sponsor the American Heart Association’s Recess Reboot initiative to support student wellness,” said T.R. Casamento, co-chairman of the Rochester Heart Ball and VP of operations at John W. Danforth Company. “This program represents a proactive investment in heart health, encouraging physical activity and fostering lifelong healthy habits. We are confident it will have a meaningful impact on students, their families, and the broader community.” 

Later this school year, Craig Hill Elementary School will also receive rink panels for theirits field hockey unit as part of the Recess Reboot initiative. The school is the first of three schools in the Rochester area to receive theirits Recess Reboot equipment. 

“Supporting youth initiatives is an essential part of building stronger communities,” said Ken Burns, co-chairman of the Rochester Heart Ball and VP of sales at John W. Danforth Company. “By collaborating with the Heart Association, we’re helping ensure that children have the resources they need to stay active, learn about heart health and develop habits that will benefit them for years to come. It’s an honor to be a part of this effort and see the excitement it brings to students and educators alike.” 

“The Kids Heart Challenge is an opportunity to empower students with the knowledge and tools to live heart-healthy lives,” said Megan Vargulick, executive director of the  Heart Association in Rochester. “With the Recess Reboot, these students are learning about heart health and gaining access to equipment that will help them stay active and engaged throughout the school day.” 

For nearly 50 years, the American Heart Association has been working with educators in elementary, middle and high schools across the nation to help educate students about healthy living. The Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™ are service learning-based fundraising programs that give students the opportunity to feel good, while doing good. To bring one of these programs to your campus, visit heart.org/getstarted.