Automated External Defibrillators
What is an AED?
An Automated External Defibrillator is a device which, when used in conjunction with CPR, provides the best chance of surviving cardiac arrest. The AED delivers an electric shock to heart in hopes of re-establishing a normal heartbeat.
We have an AED, isn't that enough?
AED's are miraculous devices that have offered the hope of saving lives. However, an AED by itself is of limited use unless someone is available who has been trained in CPR and the use of the AED. Even AED's require training in CPR to be effective
Please contact Sean Madden to obtain information on AED’s including help with planning, placement, and purchasing discounts and grants or if you have any questions
Funding Sources to Consider
Local Corporations and Businesses
Corporations may donate to charitable causes through corporate giving
programs, company-sponsored foundations or both. Corporate giving often is
directed to programs that benefit employees and their families or the
community.
Businesses can be one of the best funding sources for AED programs, for example large retailers, insurance companies, public utilities, corporate headquarters, grocery stores, car dealerships, hospitals, cardiologists, etc.
Local Civic Organizations
Rotary clubs, Elks clubs, Lions clubs, Kiwanis clubs, American Legions,
VFWs, and hospital foundations/auxiliaries generally have funds available
for community service initiatives and are very approachable. Often, a
letter or presentation in a meeting may be all that is necessary to
general funds. Look in the phone book or check with the Chamber of
Commerce for local civic organizations.
Private Foundations
Foundations are nongovernmental non-profit organizations with funds
maintained to serve the common good, primarily by providing grants to
other non-profit organizations. In select libraries around the country you
can access the Foundation Center's Database on CD/ROM. There are over
70,000 foundations and 200,000 grant opportunities nationwide. Some of
these are Medtronic Heart Rescue Program, Tenet Healthcare,
Bridgestone/Firestone, Ford, Allstate, Bank One, Wells Fargo, and Blue
Cross/Blue Shield.
Public Charities
Public charities derive their funds from the general public. Their goal is
to enhance the quality of life in the local community. Look for community
foundations in your area, such as the Minneapolis Community Foundation and
the Denver Community Foundation.
Government Grants
The federal government spends about $1 trillion a year on domestic
programs. The money filters through state agencies for redistribution at
the local level. Grant funds can be found at the federal or state level.
Typically, funding for EMS programs can be found in these agencies:
Department of Health, Department of Transportation, Department of Justice,
Department of Public Safety, Office of EMS, Department of Education,
Federal Emergency Management Agency. Check the Catalog of Domestic
Assistance for grant opportunities at www.cfda.gov.
Fundraisers
Some communities raise money for AED programs using traditional
fundraisers. While such effort can be time consuming, they do work. Some
examples might be a CPR marathon, letter campaign to area businesses,
raffle donated items, sell something, hold a breakfast or dinner, sponsor
a holiday event or a refreshment stand at local sports events, a golf
tournament, bingo, games, etc. You might also contact the PTA or PTSA to
see if they can help with a fundraiser.
