Fanwood recently purchased outdoor AED equipment for Forest Road Park, building on equipment The Aliver Foundation donated to La Grande Park in October 2024. The purchase continues a collaboration that pairs accessible equipment with community education about cardiac arrest, CPR and AED use.
The foundation’s first Fanwood placement was dedicated October 9, 2024, during a community celebration organized with the Fanwood Rescue Squad. The event introduced a highly visible, all-weather, climate-controlled AED enclosure and gave residents opportunities to practice CPR chest compressions and learn how to use an AED.
Mayor Colleen Mahr joined local first responders, community members and foundation representatives at the dedication. Former NHL goalie and Stanley Cup champion Glenn “Chico” Resch also participated in the hands-on demonstration.
At the event, Mahr described the donation as “a really important moment for Fanwood when it comes to being able to provide lifesaving equipment to bystanders.” She also announced plans for additional outdoor AED equipment at Forest Road Park.
That investment reflects the foundation’s approach: help establish an initial location, introduce residents to the equipment and encourage communities to expand access.
“Anytime we place outdoor AED equipment in a community, our hope is that it will lead to expanded outdoor AED access,” said Jill A. Pall, the foundation’s founder and president.
Fanwood recognized the ongoing work October 5 with a proclamation marking Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month. Teen Ambassador Sebastiao Pinto and First Responder Committee Member Luciane Raibin accepted it on the foundation’s behalf.
Founded in January 2024, The Aliver Foundation reports helping place nearly 200 outdoor AED equipment bundles across 12 states, including more than 100 in New Jersey. Its work also includes education and resources for cardiac arrest survivors and their loved ones.
According to the foundation, a $2,500 contribution underwrites an AED and its outdoor enclosure. Individuals, families, businesses and community organizations can support a placement, and donations of any amount are welcome.
For readers interested in supporting expanded access in their own communities, information is available at thealiverfoundation.org.
Source: The Aliver Foundation
