YMCA of Greenville assistant aquatics director honored with Red Cross Life Saving Award Certificate of Merit
July 31, 2024
YMCA of Greenville announced that Teresa Collins, assistant aquatics program director for the Caine Halter Family YMCA, was honored with the Red Cross Life Saving Award Certificate of Merit, the most prestigious lifesaving award conferred by the Red Cross and is signed by the president of the United States. YMCA and Red Cross officials attended a ceremony held at the Caine Halter Family YMCA to present Collins with the award.
The Certificate of Merit is given to individuals who save or sustain a life using skills learned in a Red Cross Training Services course.
On the night of January 21, 2024, Collins, a trained American Red Cross lifeguard, responded to an accident where two people on an ATV were stopped at an intersection where a 4-wheeler collided with the ATV, flipping it over and ejecting the two people. The 4-wheeler flipped on top of one of the two, causing major injuries including a broken pelvis, broken leg, and severe bleeding from the head. Collins administered first aid and stabilized the person for more than 15 minutes until first responders arrived at the scene. By controlling the bleeding and stabilizing the head and neck, Collins’ actions were crucial to the well-being of the person.
“Lifesavers like Teresa exemplify the mission of the Red Cross to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies,” said Jamie Raichel, executive director for the Upstate Chapter of the American Red Cross of South Carolina. “We are extremely proud to present this award and commend Teresa for her willingness to help others in distress.”
“We are extremely proud of Teresa’s actions, and we are very lucky that she is a part of our family here at the YMCA of Greenville,” said Brian Vest, vice president of operations, Caine Halter Family YMCA. “Teresa is a prime example of living out the mission of the YMCA of Greenville, building healthy spirit, mind and body for all.”
About the YMCA of Greenville, SC
The YMCA of Greenville is a cause-driven non-profit organization. Our mission is, following the example of Christ, to build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. With a focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Y nurtures the potential of every youth and teen, improves the health and well-being of our community and provides opportunities to give back and help support our neighbors. Founded in 1876, the Y serves more than 70,000 people annually through programs that include after-school care, resident and day camps, aquatics, youth and adult sports, and health and wellness. Programs are offered through four family branches, as well as the Verdae YMCA, YMCA Camp Greenville, and YMCA Judson Community Center. The Y is also home to Y Teen Services and the SC Youth in Government programs. For more information about the YMCA of Greenville, visit ymcagreenville.org, or call (864) 412-0288.
