Teen Launches Nonprofit to Enhance Cardiac Emergency Preparedness in Central Texas
Calah Cares: Teen’s nonprofit targets lifesaving training gaps

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Calah Williams, a 17-year-old from Pflugerville, Texas, founded The Calah Cares Project to address cardiac emergency preparedness gaps in underserved communities. Her nonprofit offers CPR training and automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to enhance readiness, particularly in local churches and community centers.
- 01Calah Williams started The Calah Cares Project after witnessing a pastor collapse during a sermon due to lack of resources.
- 02The nonprofit's 'Hearts Ready' program provides AEDs and CPR training, focusing on underserved areas in Central Texas.
- 03Interest in the training programs has exceeded expectations, with attendance at one session surpassing 25 participants.
- 04St. Stephen's Missionary Baptist Church will receive an AED and crisis kit on June 14, marking a significant step for the initiative.
- 05Williams emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals to act in emergencies, advocating for CPR training for everyone.
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Calah Williams, a 17-year-old from Pflugerville, Texas, founded The Calah Cares Project to improve cardiac emergency preparedness in underserved communities after witnessing a pastor collapse during a church service due to a lack of resources. Her nonprofit's 'Hearts Ready' program provides automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and hands-on CPR training, particularly targeting churches and community centers east of Interstate 35, where resources are often scarce. Williams noted that interest in the program has exceeded expectations, with one training session attracting over 25 participants, far surpassing the anticipated turnout. A significant milestone will occur on June 14, when St. Stephen's Missionary Baptist Church in north Austin receives an AED and crisis kit, following its completion of CPR training. Local leaders, including representatives from the Austin Fire Department and city officials, are expected to attend the event, demonstrating growing support for the initiative. Williams aims to empower individuals to act during emergencies, urging the public to learn CPR, as it can save lives.
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The initiative aims to enhance emergency preparedness in communities lacking resources, potentially saving lives in cardiac emergencies.
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