Nominations Open for National Youth Heart Ambassadors

The American Heart Association, devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, is now accepting nominations from youth who have been affected by heart disease or stroke either through a personal diagnosis, diagnosis of a loved one, or has made a personal lifestyle change, to serve as a Youth Heart Ambassador. The position gives youth a voice to encourage, advocate and underscore the need for to raise critical funding as they share the impact cardiovascular disease has on their life.

The Youth Heart Ambassadors serve a one-year commitment as a volunteer of the American Heart Association assisting the organization to be a relentless force for healthier lives for all. The 2022-2023 class of Youth Heart Ambassadors are the face and voice in the American Heart Associations’ in-school initiatives sharing their story to actively and passionately champion other children to establish healthy habits to better mental and physical well-being.

“Sharing my story with others was important because I loved teaching kids about living a healthy and happy lifestyle even with physical challenges,” said Addie Gralund, 2021-2022 Youth Heart Ambassador. “I want other kids to know that special hearts are important because it teaches us to be mentally stronger on our journey to live a healthy life.”The nomination portal for the casting call is open from March 1-31, 2022. Application requirements include a short video and application form. More information can be found online, heart.org/youthambassadors.

The Youth Heart Ambassadors works closely with the American Heart Association’s in-school programs, Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge. With deep roots in physical activity, Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge have expanded beyond the gym to meet the needs of today’s youth and educators as science has proven the strong connection between physical and mental health. Both programs’ curriculums help prepare kids for success by supporting physical and emotional well-being. 

Schools interested in participating in either Kids Heart Challenge or American Heart Challenge can still register for the current school year and receive expanded curriculum resources for both classrooms and in-home learning environments. To learn more about other school programs please visit www.heart.org/schools.