Community Foundation Supports AED Purchase

After receiving a $4,561 grant from the Three Lakes Community Foundation (TLCF), the Three Lakes Fire Department (TLFD) will place life-saving automated external defibrillators, or AEDs, with six first responders living throughout the community.

At nearly $700 each, the AEDs allow quicker response times to heart-related medical emergencies in rural areas, which occur on average about ten times a year, according to TLFD Assistant Chief Lee Tauer.

“This will change the jobs of our first responders by giving them the tool to help someone who has suffered a heart attack and has a shockable rhythm,” explained Tauer.

TLCF Vice Chair Ginger Verch noted that the TLFD grant request fulfilled the Foundation’s mission to support and strengthen opportunities in Three Lakes, stating, “Providing the first responders with life-saving devices supports one of the most vital services of our town.”

Verch also stressed the importance of working together within the community. “There is strength in numbers. One of the foundation’s values is unity; the best way to strengthen our town is together. Our ability to work collaboratively with other organizations in Three Lakes is the best way to be good stewards of the gifts from our donors.”

Fellow TLCF board member Paul Williams agrees, “When we support those who actively support our community, we better the opportunities for all of us.”

The TLCF, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, was established in 2014. The foundation provides grants to numerous organizations in the Three Lakes area.

Both Verch and Williams encourage those who love Three Lakes to consider supporting the foundation’s efforts.

“Please consider giving to our endowment so that we may continue to support the town for many years into the future,” said Verch. Williams agreed, noting, “Recurring donations ensure a steady stream of support.” Information regarding the TLCF, its vision and mission, and ways to support the group’s efforts can be found on this website.