Hudson safety forces have implemented a new active shooter training program with the goal of reducing the number of victims and getting medical assistance to victims as quickly as possible. The Hudson Kiwanis contributed a generous donation of $26,280 to help reach the City’s goal of purchasing equipment to be used in an active shooter incident. The City previously received a $10,000 grant from the Burton D. Morgan Foundation and $7,020 from the Northern Ohio Golf Charities Foundation, Inc., but was still short of the goal. Hudson Kiwanis stepped in to fund the remaining amount necessary to purchase ballistic vests, helmets, ballistic shields, and tourniquets, among other items.
While HPD has trained for active shooter incidents for many years, it began training its officers in new tactics and response strategies in 2016. To increase preparedness, the new training program will include not only Hudson Police, but also members of Hudson Fire and EMS. If an incident occurs, all safety forces will work together in active shooter rescue task force teams (ASRTFT) to better address the incident.
This type of training hit home to Hudson Kiwanis member Peter Loal, who has two grandchildren who attend the Parkland, Florida schools. His granddaughter lost three classmates in the tragic event at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School last year.
“Hudson Kiwanis is pleased to donate this money that will be used by Hudson safety forces Rescue Task Force Teams,” said Hudson Kiwanis Member Peter Loal. “Too many shootings have occurred in schools, businesses, and other venues over the past 20 years. If this money will help save a life, then it is money well spent.”
“We hope never to have to use this type of training in a real incident,” said Hudson Police Chief Perry Tabak. “However, advanced preparation like this will help save lives in the event of an active shooter situation. We appreciate the support of the Kiwanis, Burton D. Morgan Foundation, and the Northeast Ohio Golf Charities Foundation for our efforts to keep the community safe.”
PHOTO CAPTION: Members of Hudson Kiwanis present a check for $26,280 to Chief Tabak and Chief Varnes for active shooter training equipment. From left to right: Mike Whitaker; Police Chief Tabak; Barak Kraus, Hudson Kiwanis President; Peter Loal; Fire & EMS Chief Varnes; and Ed Gesdorf.
Hudson Kiwanis
Hudson Kiwanis has served the Hudson Schools and Community since 1951. Since 2000, over $1 million has been given to the schools and community. Some of the visible projects include the Splash Pad, basketball courts, high school tennis courts and safety town, just to name a few. In addition, Hudson Kiwanis provides several scholarships for graduating seniors, school grants, funding for Power of the Pen, and many more. Its funding comes from the Hoops Classic Basketball Tournament for boys and girls, a recreational baseball program, and the sale of Christmas Poinsettias. For more information about Hudson Kiwanis, visit their website: www.hudsonkiwanis.com.
Burton D. Morgan Foundation
The Burton D. Morgan Foundation supports education, arts and culture, social services, and civic activities in its home community of Hudson, Ohio.
Northern Ohio Golf Charities Foundation, Inc.
Northern Ohio Golf Charities Foundation, Inc. uses proceeds from the Bridgestone Invitational Tournament ticket and hospitality sales to provide grants to the local community.