Posted on 02/24/2021
Rick and Jennifer Chap with Buddy
Rick and Jennifer Chap with Buddy (Photo credit Dan Beckmann)

The Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation (SCAF) is pleased to announce that Jennifer Chap has been named 2020 Volunteer of the Year. This is the first year for this annual award, which is presented to the volunteer who supports SCAF and its mission to raise awareness about sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) and help save lives. 

Jennifer became involved in the cause when her husband, Rick, suffered SCA at their home on February 27, 2012. Alerted by their cat, Buddy, Jennifer called 9-1-1 and performed dispatcher-assisted CPR until EMS arrived. This week the couple celebrates Rick’s 9th re-birthday, grateful for nine years of memories that may not have been. 

“I’m honored and humbled to receive this award for a cause that means so much to me,” said Jennifer Chap. “Thank you for this honor and for helping turn adversity into promise for so many through SCAF’s life-saving work.”

Jennifer has become a passionate warrior for the cause, applying her expertise in strategic marketing and consumer insights through the couple’s company, StrataVerve, a strategic marketing practice. In partnership with SCAF, StrataVerve has conducted studies pro-bono covering public awareness and understanding of SCA, CPR and AEDs and messaging that motivates bystander action. The research has been presented at multiple national conferences. In addition, Jennifer, Rick and team produced SCAF’s awareness video, “Together, We Can Save More Lives.” And Jennifer has been instrumental in helping develop the Call-Push-Shock national movement. Jennifer and Rick are co-founders of BuddyCPR and also serve on the SCAF Advisory Council.

“Jennifer Chap’s contributions to the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation are immeasurable,” said Mary M. Newman, MS, President & CEO of SCAF. “Her expertise in consumer marketing, in addition to her personal experiences and insights have added tremendous value to our organization. We are proud to acknowledge Jennifer Chap for her selfless and tireless service, and we look forward to working with her in the years ahead.”

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