Westfield Teens Working to Save Lives, One CPR Lesson at a Time
Maria Torres · Union County Life
Beat The Beat, a nonprofit run by Westfield teens, provides free first aid and CPR classes to the Union County community. Founded and directed by rising Westfield High School senior Jessica Tan, the organization strives to minimize gender and income disparities among those who receive lifesaving CPR training.
Union County Life covers youth leadership and community service initiatives in Westfield and all 21 Union County municipalities.
The Inspiration
Tan became interested in providing first aid instruction after researching it for her junior research project at Westfield High School. "I learned that women and people in lower-income communities have lower survival rates and bystander intervention rates. This was because many people could not afford CPR classes, and those who were educated were afraid of touching women inappropriately," Tan said.
Bridging Disparities
After completing her research project, Tan realized she could help bridge these disparities by providing free classes that serve low-income communities. The organization also uses CPR mannequins of both genders to make licensed individuals more comfortable performing CPR on females.
"Typical certification courses cost $50-$100, making them inaccessible to all audiences," said Henry Bastable, a rising senior at St. Peter's Prep who serves as the program's managing director.
Classes and Certifications
Beat The Beat has issued 11 CPR/AED/First Aid certifications through classes. All instructors are certified through the American Red Cross training program. Classes cover how to recognize cardiac arrest, perform rescue breaths, perform chest compressions, and use an AED. Participants can earn CPR and first aid certifications through the program.
Community Feedback
Carolyn Dunn, a local parent and program participant, praised the organization's approach. "The CPR class was well-run, quick and efficient. It only took a couple of hours to earn the CPR and first aid certifications," Dunn said.
Growth and Next Steps
The organization is currently in the process of achieving 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, which will allow them to apply for grants and fundraisers to expand their mission. This formal recognition will enhance their ability to reach more Union County residents.
How to Participate
More information and class registration is available at beatthebeat.org. The free classes serve Union County residents and reflect the founders' commitment to ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent people from learning life-saving skills.
Find more Westfield youth leadership and community service news on Union County Life.
FAQ
Q: How can I learn CPR for free in Union County?
A: Beat The Beat, a nonprofit founded by Westfield teenager Jessica Tan, offers free CPR and first aid classes to Union County residents. Register at beatthebeat.org.
Q: Who founded Beat The Beat?
A: Jessica Tan, a rising Westfield High School senior, founded and directs Beat The Beat. Henry Bastable, a rising senior at St. Peter's Prep, serves as managing director.
Q: Why did Jessica Tan start Beat The Beat?
A: Tan discovered through her junior research project that women and lower-income communities have lower survival rates in cardiac emergencies because CPR classes are too expensive and some people fear performing CPR on women.
Q: What does Beat The Beat teach?
A: Classes cover how to recognize cardiac arrest, perform rescue breaths, perform chest compressions, and use an AED. Participants earn CPR and first aid certifications.
Q: How long are the classes?
A: Classes take approximately 2-3 hours to complete.
Q: How much does the program cost?
A: Beat The Beat classes are completely free. Traditional CPR certification courses cost $50-$100.
Q: Are the instructors certified?
A: Yes. All Beat The Beat instructors are certified through the American Red Cross training program.
Q: Where are classes held?
A: Classes are held at the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad.
Q: Is Beat The Beat a 501(c)(3) nonprofit?
A: Beat The Beat is working toward 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, which will allow the organization to apply for grants and fundraisers.
Related articles
Health & WellnessConsumer Alert: Major Recall Issued for Mistolin and Lestoil Cleaners Over Bacteria Risk
Kenilworth residents should check for more than 6 million recalled Mistolin and Lestoil cleaners due to a potential bacterial risk
Health & WellnessUnderstanding What Therapy Is and Isn't
Explore a thoughtful look at what professional therapy is and isn't, breaking down common misconceptions and highlighting mental health resources.
Health & WellnessGoogle Alerts — Garwood NJGateway Family YMCA Launches Livestrong Program
The Gateway Family YMCA announces its upcoming LIVESTRONG fall session to support adult cancer survivors with fitness and recovery programs. (
Get Union County news in your inbox
Subscribe for local headlines, town updates, and community stories from across Union County.
Sign up for the newsletter