Robinson Elementary School hosted the Jump Rope for Heart fundraiser Nov. 21.

Each "jumper" raised funds by recruiting family and friends to sponsor them during the event.

Jump Rope for Heart is a national program that has raised money and awareness for the American Heart Association for over 30 years. The event aims to raise money, as well as awareness, about heart-related health issues among children and their families.

Robinson students gathered in the gym and were separated into 10 teams. They played a relay jump rope game in honor of Jump Rope for Heart to raise money for the American Heart Association. Proceeds from Jump Rope For Heart are used by the American Heart Association to fund research on heart and blood vessel disease and stroke.

Robinson Physical Education Teachers Xarissa Bolz, Lori Hubbard and Tanya Porter organized the Jump Rope for Heart event, recruiting over 75 students to participate. The annual fundraiser brought in over $2,200 this year.

"It's not as much as in previous years, but with the economy the way it is, we are more than pleased," said Bolz.

Students were sent home with information packets on heart disease that equip parents with pertinent facts about child obesity and heart-related issues.

"It's just such an excellent way to raise awareness about heart disease and to promote exercise and healthy habits among the kids," said Bolz.

Black's Mill Elementary School hosted its Jump Rope for Heart event on Sept. 19. Kilough Elementary School is scheduled to host the Jump Rope for Heart event Feb. 12-13, 2009.