Pleasant Hills Rotary Presents Final AED Through Heartbeat for Heroes’ District Grant

Last Updated on Friday, 31 July 2026 03:03

The Rotary Club of Pleasant Hills proudly completed the final 2026, presentation of its ‘Heartbeat for Heroes’ AED Grant by donating an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to First Presbyterian Church of Duquesne, where Pastor Judi Slater accepted the life-saving equipment on behalf of the congregation.

Pictured (L to R) - Reverend Judi Slater, Becky DeRose, Mallory Weiss, Joan Jenkins, Fran Ruppen, Sidra DeRose, Darlene Kruth, Steve Slater

This presentation marks the completion of the club's 2026 district grant project, which placed five AEDs throughout the South Hills area in locations where they can provide immediate assistance during a cardiac emergency.

First Presbyterian Church of Duquesne was selected not only because it serves as a place of worship, but because it is a true community resource. Under Pastor Judi Slater's leadership, the church operates numerous outreach programs that touch the lives of individuals and families throughout the Duquesne area. These ministries include the Shared Blessings Mission Store, senior food box distribution, a community Blessing Box stocked with food and essential items, a neighborhood library box, the Duquesne Community Victory Garden, and participation in Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, helping provide free books to preschool children to encourage early literacy.

The Rotary Club is honored to partner with the church on community service projects, including stocking the Blessing Box with food and household essentials, and looks forward to continuing that partnership in the future.

"Rotary is committed to strengthening our communities in meaningful ways," said Club Service Chair, Mallory Weiss. "By placing AEDs in locations where people gather and serve others, we're helping ensure these organizations are equipped to respond if every second counts."

While this grant has come to a successful conclusion, the Rotary Club of Pleasant Hills hopes to continue expanding access to life-saving AEDs throughout our communities. The club plans to apply for another Rotary District Grant to fund additional AED placements. Nonprofit organizations, churches, schools, and community groups that believe an AED would benefit their facility are encouraged to reach out to learn more about future opportunities. Email cindypweiss98@gmail.com for additional information.

The Rotary Club of Pleasant Hills extends its sincere appreciation to Pastor Judi Slater and the congregation of First Presbyterian Church of Duquesne for their unwavering commitment to serving others. Together, through partnership and service, both organizations continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of those they serve.