Funding for the Elementary School Running Club Initiative was provided to the American Heart Association by US Games and Sunflower Marketing.  The 69 elementary schools that currently sponsor running clubs will receive a $100 stipend or an equipment voucher that can be used at their discretion. 

This initiative supports healthy lifestyles for students, parents and teachers. In addition to increased health benefits, research suggests that students receiving additional physical activity show increased brain function, higher energy and concentration levels, increased self-esteem and better behavior which support cognitive learning.