Two-peat.

When it comes to raising money, the students at Avalon Middle School in Orlando are the best in Florida.

  • Avalon Middle School raised $20,000 for the American Heart Association
  • It was the 2nd year in a row Avalon Middle raised the most money in Florida

The school completed its three-day Hoops For Heart fundraising event to benefit the American Heart Association, bringing in a record-breaking $20,000.

Out of 1,663 schools in the state that participate in the American Heart Association Youth Market programs, Avalon Middle School has been recognized as the highest fundraising school in Florida for the second consecutive year, toppling last year's total of $18,000.

Avalon Middle has ranked No. 1 in the state for Hoops For Heart in the state over the last two years.

The American Heart Association's Hoops For Heart event is part of the Youth Market program that teaches students about healthy hearts and learning the value of community service at the same time.

Schools participating in the Hoops For Heart program are eligible to receive gift certificates for free physical education equipment after $1,500 has been raised. Avalon Middle received $2,500 from the American Heart Association to purchase new gym equipment through U.S. Games.

"I am so proud of our students for going above and beyond in their fundraising efforts," said Karen Furno, principal of Avalon Middle School. "It's important for us to not only educate our students on the importance of being healthy, but also the importance of community service. The Hoops For Heart program allows us to do both."

Since the American Heart Association's Youth Market programs began in 1978, they have raised more than $760 million nationally for the organization.


(American Heart Association)