Local resident Tom Melvin is currently the Athletic Director and Media Coordinator of BRAEVISION Studios for the Bonnie Brae School, considered one of the nation's preeminent therapeutic learning environments for troubled adolescent boys who have been neglected, abused, or abandoned. As a certified lifeguard since 1975 and instructor since 1988, he uses Red Cross training to help his students gain the skills necessary to become responsible young men. “I always wanted to give back to my community. Today I certify kids in first aid, CPR and aquatics. Some young men even become certified lifeguards. What better way to build self esteem and responsibility than to teach someone how to save a life.” According to Tom, the kids love the training. One young man used his training to try and save the life of a neighbor who had collapsed from a heart attack. “Without the training and skills he could only have been able to watch the situation. He instead was able to help. ”

When asked why he advocates so strongly for the American Red Cross training programs, Tom said “There are a lot of organizations out there that say they do lifesaving training, but based on my experience, I don’t see those programs at the same standard as Red Cross. The local Red Cross also builds tremendous partnerships with the Y’s throughout the community to ensure that they are reaching people. The quality of what they do makes them stand apart from the rest.” According to Kenneth Salvatore, the Chapter’s Director for Health and Safety, “Red Cross provides the gold standard for quality training. Other organizations model their training on what we do. We also offer a wide range of programs to meet the diversity of preparedness needs in the community”. The chapter provides training in areas such as First Aid, CPR, AED (Automated External Defibrillator), blood borne pathogens, Learn to Swim, lifeguarding, HIV/AIDS education and Babysitter's Training. The American Red Cross Preparedness programs help people lead safer and healthier lives. To take a course or become an instructor contact the chapter at 908-725-2217.