In Jacklyn Anderson’s Pierson High School health class, students banded together to raise money for the American Heart Association after accepting the American Heart Association Challenge called Finn’s Mission.
The challenge focuses on a young boy named Finn who was born with a heart defect. To raise awareness for children like Finn, the challenge introduces students to facts about hearts, the dangers of vaping, and how the American Heart Association is dedicated to educating others as well as working to develop research funding.
To participate in the challenge, the students needed to join Anderson’s elective course which is available to upper-level high school students. The course involves First Aid and CPR training through the American Heart Association. To complete Finn’s Mission, the students embarked on eight challenges which revolved around learning hands-only CPR, the dangers of vaping, and raising funds to help the American Heart Association.
“Bringing students together through a life-saving skill is a wonderful way to make friends and prepare for future situations,” said senior, Quinn Canavan. Once the students completed their First Aid and CPR training, they shared their accomplishments and the challenge’s mission via social media, email, posters, and word of mouth. With 128 high school students who participated in the fundraiser, the class was able to raise $4,131.98 for the American Heart Association.
“Students responded really well to the event. It was an eye opener for them when they learned how heart disease is the leading cause of death and how it can affect all ages,” said Anderson. “They were inspired and really touched by the generous donations our community provided.”
Photo caption: Sag Harbor’s Pierson High School students completed Finn’s Mission and raise more than $4,000 for the American Heart Association.