Project Lifesaver Sponsorship

The Marion County Patient Protection Task Force (MCPPTF), otherwise known as Project Lifesaver Indy, is the combined efforts of the Autism Society of Indiana, Indianapolis Fire Department (IFD), Indianapolis Emergency Medical Services (IEMS), Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), and Department of Homeland Security.

The Project Lifesaver program helps to locate individuals who are prone to wander due to autism, Alzheimer’s, or other special needs. Recovery of individuals who participate in this program is 95 percent greater than of those individuals who are not participants.

Experts estimate that 60 percent of people with Alzheimer's disease will wander at some point during the progression of the brain disorder and half of those will become lost or separated from a loved one. The disease results in memory loss, confusion and decline in other intellectual functions that impair individuals' ability to recognize they are in danger or to independently take action to return home safely. Moreover, up to 61 percent of people who become lost will suffer serious injury or death if not found within 24 hours.

Statistics show that more than 1/3 of children with autism who elope are never or rarely able to communicate name, address or phone number. Two out of three parents report that their missing child had a “close call” with a traffic injury and 32 percent had a “close call” with a possible drowning. Wandering is ranked among the most stressful autism behavior for parents. 62 percent of families avoid activities outside of the home due to fear of wandering and 40 percent of parents suffer from sleep deprivation.

Funding is needed to help provide low income families with the needed safety equipment to keep their special needs loved ones safe. A basic starter kit, which includes a transmitter, 12 straps, and 12 batteries, is approximately $300. The receiver/locater equipment is approximately $1,500. The value of a life is priceless, the ability to help save it is up to you.

Thank you for your consideration in becoming a piece of the puzzle by supporting the Autism Society of Indiana and Project Lifesaver.

For Sponsorship Levels and Benefits, click here.