Carcassonne Receives AED from Letcher Fire and Rescue

The Carcassonne Community Center’s acquisition of an AED through the generosity of the Letcher Fire and Rescue Department is a testament to the power and importance of community collaboration, especially in times of hardship and rebuilding. The Letcher Fire and Rescue Department, having faced significant operational setbacks after the 2022 Flood and although still in the process of recovery, stepped forward to support and assist the Carcassonne Community Center in obtaining an AED.

This act of kindness and solidarity is a shining example of how communities can come together to help one another in times of need. When Carcassonne board member Manuel Vanderpool reached out to Shawn Gilley, the Executive Director of Letcher Fire and Rescue, inquiring about obtaining an AED, the prompt response and agreement to provide the lifesaving equipment demonstrated the deep sense of compassion and commitment to public safety that exists within the department.

The commitment to having an AED on-hand and properly trained responders has been a longstanding priority for the Carcassonne Community Center. However, as a non-profit organization heavily reliant on donations to sustain operations, there were legitimate concerns about the financial feasibility of acquiring such a critical piece of medical equipment. With the AED now available at the center, alongside trained individuals ready to respond in case of a sudden cardiac event, the community’s safety and well-being are significantly enhanced.

The rural location of the Carcassonne Community Center further emphasizes the necessity of having an AED readily accessible. In such areas, emergency response times can be longer, making immediate access to medical devices and trained responders absolutely crucial. The presence of the AED will ensure that visitors to the center, whether community members attending events or participants in various programs, can receive timely and potentially life-saving assistance in the event of a cardiac emergency.

Expressing profound gratitude, the Carcassonne Community Center recognizes and appreciates the vital role played by the Letcher Fire and Rescue Department in bringing this initiative to fruition. The generosity and support extended by the department will have a lasting impact on the center’s capacity to provide a safe environment for all who visit.

As the center prepares to celebrate its 100-year anniversary next year, it is a testament to the resilience and determination of the community. Throughout its rich history, the Carcassonne Community Center has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of its community, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to serving as a hub for cultural, educational, and social activities.

For those seeking additional information about the Carcassonne Community Center, its programs, ways to help or donate and upcoming events, please visit their official website at www.carcassonnecommunitycenter.org