The Telugu Association of North America (TANA) New Jersey team successfully organized a CPR & AED training program at the Kendall Park First Aid & Rescue Squad, bringing together families, youth, students, and community members to learn critical life-saving skills.
The training was led by Chief Al Lo-Beer, who provided comprehensive instruction on how to respond during cardiac emergencies, perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), and effectively use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Participants gained hands-on experience through live demonstrations and practical training sessions, helping them build confidence in handling emergency situations.
During the program, Chief Al Lo-Beer highlighted the impact of the LUCAS Chest Compression System donated by TANA two years ago. He noted that the advanced device has significantly enhanced emergency response capabilities by delivering continuous, high-quality chest compressions to cardiac arrest patients during transport to hospitals.
"The LUCAS Chest Compression System donated by TANA has played a vital role in saving lives in our community over the past two years. We are deeply grateful to TANA for providing this invaluable resource that strengthens public safety and emergency care," said Chief Al Lo-Beer.
The LUCAS Chest Compression System is an advanced life-saving device designed to provide automatic, uninterrupted chest compressions for cardiac arrest patients, helping maintain blood circulation to the brain and other vital organs during critical moments.
The event was conducted under the leadership of TANA President Dr. Naren Kodali and Executive Vice President Srinivas Lavu. Several TANA leaders and volunteers contributed to the program's success, including Treasurer Raja Kasukurthi, New Jersey Regional Representative Sudheer Chandra Narepalupu, Community Services Coordinator Sai Bollineni, Youth Coordinator Srinivas Cherukuri, Foundation Treasurer Srinivas Oruganti, Foundation Trustee Satish Meka, NJ TANA Cares Coordinator Praveen Kalvakolanu, Team Square Coordinator Ravi Macharla, volunteers Harish Koya and Dasarath Tallapaneni, among others.
A special recognition was given to Varsha Narepalupu, a local high school student and EMS volunteer, for her dedication to community service. TANA leaders praised her as an inspiring example of youth leadership and civic engagement.
Speaking on the occasion, TANA Treasurer Raja Kasukurthi emphasized that TANA's mission extends beyond cultural activities.
"TANA is committed to serving communities through awareness, education, and empowerment. Programs like CPR and AED training equip individuals with skills that can save lives during emergencies. Across North America and India, TANA continues to support health awareness initiatives, food drives, youth development programs, educational activities, farmer assistance projects, blood donation drives, and disaster relief efforts," he said.
He further added, "When TANA donated the LUCAS device two years ago, our goal was simple—to save lives. Hearing today how impactful that donation has been is truly gratifying. Community service remains at the heart of TANA's mission."
TANA leadership also expressed appreciation to Chief Al Lo-Beer, the Kendall Park First Aid & Rescue Squad, volunteers, and all participants for making the event a success.
The CPR & AED training program stands as another example of TANA's ongoing commitment to public health awareness, emergency preparedness, youth engagement, and community empowerment. Through initiatives like these, TANA continues to strengthen communities and promote a culture of service and preparedness.
