The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone, everywhere, has named Jennifer Dawson as its National Kids Heart Challenge Outstanding Volunteer of the Year, recognizing her two decades of leadership in promoting heart health, physical activity, and community service to her students.
Dawson was one of nine award recipients from across the country recognized during a virtual ceremony on Sept. 29. The annual awards celebrate outstanding participants in the Heart Association’s nationwide school programs, Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™, honoring individuals and schools that advance the organization's lifesaving mission.
One in every five American children and teens is obese; that’s up 35% from 2000, as severe childhood obesity rates have nearly doubled in that time[1]. Programs like Kids Heart Challenge help schools encourage healthy habits, physical activity and heart health education among students.
“Jennifer’s passion and commitment to Kids Heart Challenge is unmatched,” said Rachel Stanley, school engagement director, American Heart Association. “She seamlessly incorporates every aspect of the program by promoting physical activity, heart health education, community service, and lifesaving skills while inspiring students, families, and staff.”
More than 20,000 schools nationwide participate in Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge. Dawson launched the program at Jennie Moore Elementary 20 years ago and has helped raise more than $580,000 for the American Heart Association during that time. During the 2025-26 school year, Jennie Moore Elementary ranked as the top fundraising school in South Carolina, raising nearly $43,000 with participation from 443 students.
“Jennifer’s commitment to the Kids Heart Challenge has made a lasting impact on our entire school community,” said Jennie Moore Elementary Principal Elizabeth Jacobs. “For 20 years, she has inspired our students to take care of their hearts, stay active, serve others, and understand that even small actions can make a big difference. This national recognition is a wonderful reflection of Jennifer’s passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to helping our students grow into healthy, compassionate citizens.”
Award recipients participated in either Kids Heart Challenge or American Heart Challenge during the 2025-26 school year and were nominated by Heart Association staff.
The Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge are grounded in science and designed to improve physical and emotional well-being, support academic success and help students feel confident in their ability to make a difference. Reaching more than 10 million students in approximately 20,000 U.S. schools each year, participants and their families learn how to eat smart, manage stress, avoid tobacco and vaping, recognize warning signs of a heart attack and stroke and more. Students are also introduced to Hands-Only CPR, a lifesaving skill that school-aged children can learn and, by age 12, effectively use if they witness a sudden cardiac arrest.
Learn more about the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge and how to get involved at heart.org/jointhechallenge. Learn more about local American Heart Association events at heart.org/SouthCarolina