The Via Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to saving lives in schools, communities, and organizations nationwide.
By raising funds, managing, and implementing complete long term automated external defibrillator (AED) programs in our communities, The Via Foundation will increase the survival rate from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA).
Currently, the national average survival rate from SCA is 5%. SCA kills more Americans each year than breast cancer, lung cancer and AIDS, combined.
Once in sudden cardiac arrest, the only treatment is a shock to the heart. Our choices are to wait for EMS, or take control with an AED. An AED is a small, portable, simple device that is approved by the FDA for use by the lay rescuer. An AED talks the rescuer through a few simple steps, then analyzes the patient and determines if a shock is needed. Only then will the AED prompt the rescuer to press a button emitting a shock. There is no way to override an AED, and no way to hurt someone with an AED.
The Via Foundation will help school districts and communities fundraise and purchase AEDs, provide medical authorizations, teach American Heart Association CPR/AED training sessions every 2 years, coordinate the monthly email maintenance reminders, and send out replacement supplies when needed. We handle all elements of a comprehensive AED Program for six years after a program begins on-site.
If your school, school district, organization, or community is interested in becoming a Via Partner, please click on the “How to Apply” link on the left and let us know!
Our Mission
The Via Foundation helps save lives by raising funds for, and placing, automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in schools and communities. Our CPR training and program management solutions give communities the skills and equipment necessary to help prevent unnecessary deaths from sudden cardiac arrest.
