JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The American Heart Association is creating a unique partnership with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Through the “Bring a Ball to the Ball” program, community donations are being turned into more opportunities for local children to stay active and build healthier futures.
“Twenty-five percent of youth, ages six to 11, are not getting the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity every day,” said Olivia Bruce, senior development director for the Heart Ball. “So to be out here with our community really embodies the Heart Ball mentality of going beyond the ballroom to instead impact real change and improve heart health right here in our communities.”
The program is an extension of the annual Heart Ball fundraiser, where attendees are asked to donate a ball from any sport.
This year, nearly 625 balls were collected.
Now, students at Love Grove and Englewood Elementary schools are getting brand-new basketballs, footballs, and soccer balls — all to keep them moving.
Jaguars ROAR cheerleaders Alex T. and Mia P. helped deliver the donations and said the feeling obtained from the excitement on students faces was rewarding.
“These kids have a ton of energy themselves,” they said. “Going into the schools and really being able to talk with them about our jobs that are so physical, and anything they could be doing playing outside. I think it’s such a great mission.”
The cheerleaders said the effort also reflects the Jaguars’ overall mission.
“We want to be a winning team, we want to be out there and involved, but a big part of it is partnering with the community and lifting up the community,” they said.
From tossing a football to running around the playground, the simple act of moving is helping kids build stronger, healthier hearts.
The American Heart Association’s efforts continue next month with the First Coast Heart Walk on Saturday, Oct. 4. The event begins at 7:30 a.m. with the official walk beginning at 9 a.m.