At just 13 years old, Ava Schimmelpfennig ’30 has already made a remarkable impact. This spring, she raised $31,225 for the American Heart Association — the highest total in the Cleveland area — earning recognition as the 2026 Teen of Impact for the City of Cleveland. Her connection to the cause is deeply personal. Since she was a little girl, Ava has been involved with the American Heart Association. After her dad was diagnosed with a heart issue in 2019, he became involved with the organization and Ava joined him for Heart Walks and other events. She even won the AHA’s 5k last year!

 

When she turned 13 — the minimum age to participate — she knew she wanted to take her involvement to the next level. After being nominated by Middle School Director Mrs. Thayer, Ava was selected as an AHA Teen of Impact and tasked with raising dollars and awareness for their mission. Her campaign launched on February 6 and ran through April 9. Ava’s initial fundraising goal was $15,000. She hit that mark in the first 30 days — so she doubled it, aiming to raise $30,000!

Ava rolled up her sleeves and got to work spreading the word through a persistent, grassroots outreach effort — emails, texts, phone calls and even handwritten letters. Consistency was key. Ava sent nearly 20 texts a day and personally followed up with every potential donor. 

Asked what resonated with supporters, Ava pointed to her genuine connection to the cause. While some students may approach initiatives like this with an eye toward building their resumes, Ava’s motivation was different: a deep commitment to raising awareness about heart health and a desire to remain involved long after the campaign ended.

Throughout the campaign, Ava was buoyed by a strong network of support. Teachers and classmates checked in daily, while family and friends followed her progress closely — often reaching out even after making a donation.

And her efforts paid off! On Wednesday night, Ava was surprised by her parents, along with members of the AHA team (including the mascot), who shared the exciting news: she had raised the largest total in the Cleveland area and was named Teen of Impact for the City of Cleveland. Ava surpassed her goal, raising $31,225 — as a 13-year-old. She was the youngest nominee in the Cleveland chapter and one of only three 13-year-olds participating nationwide.

 

She was honored by the American Heart Association at a special ceremony celebrating her efforts. Reflecting on the experience, Ava said, “I’m proud of what I raised, but also that I helped others learn more about heart health.”

 

Her message is simple — and powerful: “Even if I’m only 13, I can still achieve big things.”