DES MOINES, Iowa, July 23, 2024 — The American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, collaborated with the Alma Pedretti Foundation and Hiker-Pedretti Foundation to provide Hands-Only CPR training kits to five organizations in Greater Des Moines. The kits will be used to train staff and community members in the lifesaving skill of Hands-Only CPR.

Recipients of the CPR kits include YMCA Greater Des Moines, West Des Moines Human Services, Caring Hands of Iowa, Knock & Drop Iowa and Starts Right Here.

More than 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of the hospital each year. If administered immediately, CPR – or cardiopulmonary resuscitation – can double or triple an individual’s chances of survival. The Association is a worldwide leader in CPR and AED (automated external defibrillator) training, educating more than 22 million people globally in CPR each year.

“By integrating easily accessible CPR kits on-site and providing year-round refresher training by the American Heart Association for staff and members alike, these selected Iowa community centers are transforming into pillars of preparedness for cardiac arrest emergencies,” said Wesley Franklin, community impact director for the American Heart Association, Greater Des Moines. “Their dedication promises to create a safer future, impacting numerous communities in need.”

The Association’s training kits will enhance community readiness to respond effectively during cardiac arrest events, particularly in areas serving populations with critical needs. Each kit contains everything needed to train up to 20 people at once.

“These essential tools will help to empower our YMCA community by teaching them life-saving skills and building the confidence to take action in the event of an emergency,” said Jeremy Stark, director of safety for the YMCA of Greater Des Moines. “The safety of our members, staff, and the Greater Des Moines Community is a pillar of everything that we do here at the YMCA, and with these kits, we are ensuring our members and staff are prepared to make a significant difference to become everyday heroes. Together, let's train, prepare and save lives!"

The Alma Pedretti Foundation and the Hilker-Pedretti Foundation are charitable foundations with the purpose of providing funding to non-profit organizations in Iowa. Alma Pedretti was a lifelong resident of Iowa and supported numerous non-profit organizations delivering services benefiting Iowa citizens.

Hands-Only CPR is chest compression-only CPR. Science has shown that following a witnessed cardiac arrest of a teen or an adult, Hands-Only CPR can be equally effective in the first few minutes of emergency response compared to CPR with rescue breaths. If a teen or adult suddenly collapses, witnesses should immediately call emergency services and begin chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 beats per minute and a depth of at least two inches.

Last year, the American Heart Association announced its Nation of Lifesavers initiative, which seeks to double the number of people willing and able to act in a cardiac emergency. Everyone, regardless of where they live, can take 90 seconds to learn how to save a life at heart.org/nation

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 - our Centennial year - we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.orgFacebookX or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

For Media Inquiries:
Bryan Geelan: bryan.geelan@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org