The Kiwanis District AED Project

“Kiwanis is a global organization dedicated to changing the world, one child and one community at a time.” 
This is the defining statement of Kiwanis. Every year, Kiwanis has a Major Emphasis Project, but the LaMissTenn District decided to take on a long-term project that could really make a difference. It is our goal to place an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) in every school in Louisiana, Mississippi and West Tennessee.

Kiwanis clubs will seek local community-minded businesses to partner with them to help fund the project. By working with local school boards, a long-range plan can be set up to place an AED in every school in the parish or county.

Any saves yet using an AED through this Project? 

6 saves and counting!

What is an AED?

An Automated External Defibrillator is a small, portable device, attached to a person's chest with wires, that checks the person's heart rhythm, decides if that rhythm is "off," and gives the heart an electric shock (called a defibrillating shock) that restores the correct, natural rhythm. This device is used when someone suffers from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). Places where AED programs provide CPR and deliver the first shock within 3 minutes after collapse, reported survival rates as high as 74%.

Why is an AED program important for schools?

Each year, more than 250,000 Americans die of sudden cardiac arrest before they reach a hospital. Consider that only 5% of cardiac arrest victims survive where no AED programs are in place. By placing AEDs in schools, the impact on survival of students, teachers and visitors that may experience cardiac arrest while on the premises is almost 70%.

What is a Zoll AED Plus?

We'll let Zoll Medical Corp. answer that question - they can answer better than we can. Click here to get information on the Zoll Aed Plus.

Is training required to use an AED?

Training for on-site responders (faculty and staff) will need to take place before the AED is activated. En-Pro Management can arrange this through the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross, usually at a cost of $50 per person. As an alternative, local EMS, fire departments, hospitals, or school nurses may provide certified training at no cost. In addition to that training, it is recommended that responders also become acquainted with the actual unit that will be onsite. The District Kiwanis office can provide a travel trainer for that purpose.

How do you order a Zoll AED Plus?

It’s as Easy as 1, 2, 3! Pam Morgan, AED Project Coordinator, is available to help with every aspect of the project. All orders should be sent to her along with a copy of the school’s Tax Exemption Certificate. Billing will occur after delivery of the AED.

Still have questions about the AED Project? 

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about automated external defibrillators. Perhaps your question is included here. If not, contact Pam Morgan, District AED Coordinator at 225/769-9233 or