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Joel Griffin, Co-Founder and Chairman of Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation, Receives Meritorious Civilian Award from Loudoun Chamber 

Fredericksburg, VA – Joel Griffin, Co-Founder and Chairman of Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation, has been awarded the Meritorious Civilian Award by the Loudoun Chamber in recognition of his heroic actions in saving the life of a man who experienced sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). The award was presented at the Loudoun Chamber’s 38th Annual Valor Awards ceremony on May 1, 2023. 

Mr. Griffin received the award for his quick response and lifesaving actions when he witnessed an elderly man collapse from sudden cardiac arrest. Griffin, who was trained in CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED), immediately began chest compressions. The man was revived on the 28th chest compression and was later transported to the hospital for further treatment. 

“We are thrilled that Joel’s heroic actions have been recognized with this award,” said Veronica Gutierrez, Director of Operations for Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation. “Joel’s quick response and knowledge of CPR and AED use highlights the importance of being prepared for sudden cardiac emergencies, they can happen anywhere at any time.” 

Joel Griffin co-founded Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation with his wife, Jennifer, in honor of their daughter who passed away from sudden cardiac arrest a few days after her 13th birthday. The foundation’s mission is to prevent sudden cardiac death by promoting heart health and providing education and training in Hands-Only CPR and AED use. Gwyneth’s Gift aims to establish a Culture of Action where communities have the knowledge and confidence to respond to sudden cardiac emergencies and increase the likelihood of positive health outcomes. 

“Joel is a leader, he lives the mission of Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation,” said Gutierrez. “By teaching four basic steps, we hope to prevent other families from experiencing the devastating loss that the Griffin’s have experienced.” 

The Meritorious Civilian Award is given by the Loudoun Chamber to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional public service or heroic actions in the community. 

For more information on Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation and their mission, visit www.gwynethsgift.org. 

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Shannon Frick

Program Manager

Shannon is the Program Manager at Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation, where she oversees all programs, including CPR & AED training, the AED program, the Scholarship program, and the volunteer program. Coming from a military family, Shannon has traveled the world but calls Northern Virginia her home after more than 20 years in the area.

She graduated from Longwood University in Farmville, Virginia, with a degree in English and later earned an associate’s degree in emergency medical science from Northern Virginia Community College to pursue a career as a first responder. Shannon served as a professional Paramedic/Firefighter for 13 years with the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue. During her tenure, she spent over half of her career in the training division.

Shannon’s extensive instructional experience provides her with a deep understanding of effective teaching methodologies and practices, making her an invaluable asset in delivering successful CPR & AED training to all groups of all ages. Her role at Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation aligns perfectly with her background, as she works to equipe community members with the skills and confidence to perform Hands-Only CPR and use AEDs, ultimately saving lives.

When she is not instructing, Shannon enjoys spending time outdoors. She may be out snowboarding, paddleboarding with her corgi, training her deaf pitbull sign language commands – or just running after both of them with her fiancé at the dog park.

Email: [email protected] 

Joel Griffin

Chairman & Co-Founder

Joel Griffin is co-founder and chairman of Gwyneth’s Gift Foundation. Gwyneth’s Gift was founded in 2015 by Joel and Jennifer Griffin in honor of their oldest daughter, Gwyneth. He is also an entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist with 25 years of private industry consulting experience and 20 years in government contracting. He is the Founder and CEO of Riphean, a regional growth management firm.

Joel is committed to philanthropy within the region through local nonprofits and organizations that strengthen local communities. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Fredericksburg Regional Alliance, Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce, Stafford Hospital Foundation, and Germanna Educational Foundation. Joel was recognized for his impact and leadership within the region, receiving the Prince B. Woodward Leadership Award in 2022.

In addition to the regional award, Joel received the Valor Award from Loudon County for his life-saving efforts in an emergency. He also received the Patriotic Civilian Service Award given by the U.S. Army for actions taken immediately and following 9/11 at The Pentagon in 2001.