Conference begins in
— 2026 Conference Theme
A Year of Special Significance
2026 carries a special emphasis on reverence, patriotism, extreme search and rescue, and first-responder appreciation.
01
Celebrate
Join us in celebrating the 250th anniversary of the founding of America
— a milestone that calls for reflection on
the values of service, community, and
protection that define Project Lifesaver’s
mission.
02
Commemorate
Together we honor the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001
— remembering the first responders and all those whose courage and sacrifice continue to inspire
this community every day.
03.
Educate
Continue building the unique
knowledge, insight, and field experience that makes Project Lifesaver members among the best in their field —through expert speakers, hands-on training, and peer learning.
Knowledgeable Speakers.
Real Impact.
A sampling of our 2026 presenter lineup — experts from across first response, cognitive care, and public safety.
Dave Bray
Rock-‘n-Roll Patriot & Motivational Speaker
An electrifying voice for patriotism and service,
Dave Bray brings music and message together
in a way that moves audiences to their feet.
Derek Anderson
Keynote Speaker
A compelling keynote presence bringing unique perspective to first-responder culture,
resilience, and mission-driven leadership in the field of public safety.
Doug White
Author & Speaker
A noted author and speaker whose work bridges the worlds of aviation, crisis management, and human performance under pressure.
Teepa Snow
Dementia Care Specialist & Educator
One of America’s leading dementia care educators, Teepa brings evidence-based, practical insight to understanding and working with individuals living with dementia.
Charles J. Fuschillo Jr.
President & CEO, Alzheimer’s Foundation of
America
A national leader in Alzheimer’s advocacy, bringing the policy and community perspective to the growing challenge of dementia-related wandering and safety.
Teepa Snow
Dementia Care Specialist & Educator
A certified dementia practitioner with deep expertise in caregiver support, behavioral approaches, and community-based protective strategies for those at risk of wandering.
Built for Everyone Who Serves
The conference is open to members and non-members. Whether you protect, care for, educate, or advocate — there’s a place for you here.
First Responders & Public Safety Professionals
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Families & Caregivers
Those caring for loved ones with autism, Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other cognitive conditions who want deeper knowledge and
connections to better resources.
Educators & Practitioners
Teachers, social workers, occupational therapists, dementia care practitioners, and other professionals serving neurodivergent or cognitively impaired individuals.
Subject-Matter Journalists
Media professionals covering public safety, special needs, healthcare, or law enforcement and seeking authoritative sourcing and direct
access to field leaders.
Please note: ESS (Electronic Search Specialist) courses are available to PLI
member agencies only. All other sessions are open to everyone.
— What You’ll Get
Certified Training
Stay current on ESS certifications and dive deeper into industry topics across multiple courses.
Peer Networking
Connect directly with agencies across the continent — learn how others sustain successful programs.
Industry Updates
Expert speakers from across public safety, cognitive care, and special-needs SAR share the latest.
Orlando Activities
After sessions wrap, enjoy near by attractions, the luxurious pool, and the hotel’s famous lazy river.
Real Stories. Real Impact.
Families, first responders, and communities trust Project Lifesaver when every second matters.
The training changed how our department responds. We're faster now. We're better.
project lifesaver
Caregiver, Texas
The training changed how our department responds. We're faster now. We're better.
Captain Lisa Chen
Police Chief, California
This program gave us back our nights. We sleep knowing someone's watching.
James Rodriguez
Caregiver, Texas
They found my son in forty minutes. Forty minutes when it felt like the world had stopped.
Sarah Mitchell
Parent, Ohio
Select Your Registration Type
Early-bird pricing in effect through July 24, 2026. Final registration cutoff
August 21, 2026.
Active Now
Early-Bird Pricing
Regular Pricing
July 25 – Aug 21, 2026
Prices increase after early-bird
Regular Pricing
July 25 – Aug 21, 2026
Prices increase after early-bird
Registration Closes
August 21, 2026
Ends 11:59 PM ET — no exceptions
Early-Bird Pricing
$700
per attendee
For personnel from registered PLI member agencies. Includes access to all general sessions, workshops, and ESS certification courses.
Active Now
Non-Member
$850
per attendee
For first responders, families, caregivers, educators, and all attendees not affiliated with a current PLI member agency. ESS courses not included.
National Instructor
$600
per attendee
For personnel from registered PLI member agencies. Includes access to all general sessions, workshops, and ESS certification courses.
Hotel accommodations are separate and not included in conference pricing. Registered attendees may book rooms at the conference group rate — see venue
section below.
Preview the evolving program schedule
— Venue & Hotel
Hilton Orlando
Buena Vista Palace
1900 E Buena Vista Dr, Orlando, FL 32830
Adjacent to Disney Springs
Conference dates: August 24 – 27, 2026
Group rate available for registered conference attendees only
Booking deadline: Must be registered for the conference by August 14, 2026 to qualify for the group rate. Discounted room availability is limited.
Enjoy the hotel’s luxurious pool, lazy river, and proximity to Disney Springs and Orlando attractions
— Venue & Hotel
Sponsorship & Exhibitor Opportunities
Align your organization with the most impactful event in special-needs search and rescue. Reach first responders, public safety
professionals, and industry leaders from across North America.
