With a mission to prepare volunteers for emergencies, ASEZ WAO in New Jersey partnered with the American Red Cross to host a CPR training event. The session began with opening words from guest speakers, all of whom were community leaders. Belleville Township Councilwoman Diana Guardabasco and Councilman Frank Velez III shared warm words commending the volunteers. Councilman Velez was impressed by ASEZ WAO’s devotion to serving the public through cleanups, blood drives, and disaster response teams. He expressed, “And I think that the work that was being done, whether it be environmental education or cleanups and all different kinds of community services, is really, really important, especially now.”
Preparing to Respond to Disasters
After the opening remarks, Nancy Francheschi, a Disaster Program Manager of the American Red Cross, led a disaster preparedness course. The session focused on natural disasters that are common to New Jersey and how to prepare for them. Later, Francheschi explained how families can gather the necessary supplies and information to make safety plans. At the end of the session, Francheschi told the volunteers, “Thank you for your leadership, for your time, for your effort and reaching out to the community. Your efforts do not go unnoticed. Since you’ve warmed my heart, you’re going to warm the heart of many people around the country.”
Then, other Red Cross volunteers also shared their experiences in disaster response and thanked the volunteers for dedicating their time to CPR training.
CPR Training: Putting Life-Saving Love Into Practice
Finally, the Red Cross demonstrated proper technique for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), an emergency procedure to aid a person whose heart or breathing has stopped. With careful concentration, volunteers practiced chest compressions using stress toys to simulate CPR. As they practiced the movements, they gained the confidence needed to step in and save a life in an urgent moment.
Furthermore, ASEZ WAO promoted the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing mainly on the 3rd goal, “Good Health and Well-Being.” By learning about floods, hurricanes, and other disasters, they also supported the 4th goal, “Quality Education.” They even practiced CPR with the mindset of a mother who always thinks ahead to protect her children. ASEZ WAO will continue honing the skills needed to assist those in need.
To view more volunteer events, please visit the activities page.
