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Save A Life Foundation, Inc

9950 W Lawrence Ave Suite 300 Schiller Park, Illinois 60176 www.salf.org
Contents

Christina’s Story
Message from the Founder and President
Board of Directors
Carol J. Spizzirri’s ……………….….Founder and President
Hon. Sam Amirante…………….……Vice President
Hon. Martin A. Sandoval…………….Secretary
Daniel A. Caravello……………….…..Treasurer
Scott Anderson
Scott Betzelos, MD
Delores Burnam
Robert Conroy
Consultants:
Robert Motta…………….Corporate Counsel
Denise Urban…………….Auditor
Medical Director’s Report ….. Dr. Stanley Zydlo

Mayors Article
Illinois Public School Pilot Study
Illinois School Training by Regions
Illinois School Training Children’s Study
St. John’s Hospital Save A Life Foundation EMS Region 3 Branch
Volunteers and Branch Facilitators
Our Nationwide Expansion
Annual Awards Dinner Dance 1999
Annual Awards Dinner Dance 2000
Financials for 1999
Financials for 2000
Some of Our many Supporters
Importance of the AED
Response times for EMS/Fire/Police

Table of Contents
Christina Jean Spizzirri

Christina Jean Spizzirri


August 6, 1974 to September 7,1992

Christina Jean was involved


in a fatal car accident. The
first people to arrive at the
scene were police officers.
Despite her serious injuries,
Christina‘s life
might have been saved had they given prompt
basic first aid. Carol J. Spizzirri, Christina’s
mom, later discover that it is not a requirement
for police officers, firefighters, 911 dispatchers,
schoolteachers, coaches, and other public
servants to be trained in life saving skills.

The Inspiration behind SALF


President/Founder Carol J. Spizzirri

Christina’s death created the awareness that all public servants and private citizens should be trained to aid
the injured in an emergency. Those first on the scene of an accident or medical emergency, the
“Bystander”, are the most vital link in one’s survival.

In order to meet the need for mass emergency trained citizens, SALF chose to begin with children,
Kindergarten through twelfth grade, who can encourage their parents and school staff by their example.
Over the past eighteen months, SALF Instructors have trained over 350,000 children statewide in the basic
fundamentals of life saving skills for free.

SALF is proud to have the support of numerous Illinois schools districts, such as the Chicago Board of
Education, who in 1992 recognized our programs by passing a Resolution to include them as part of their
school curriculum for all their children. This support spirited the opening of our first SALF Region 3
Branch office in St. John’s Hospital’s EMS Department, Springfield, IL. in 2000, covering twenty-seven
municipalities. Alexian Brothers, Elk Grove Village, IL. and St. Alexius Medical Centers, Hoffman
Estates, IL, joined by Sherman Hospital in Elgin will be opening their SALF Region 8 Branch in Hanover
Park, IL., mid-April, 2001. Currently four major Illinois hospitals are discussing the opening of SALF
Branch offices within their EMS Region as well.

Since the inception of our “Save A Life For Kids”, and “Bystander
Basics” programs in 1994, the number of SALF Instructors has
rapidly increased statewide by 62%. Since all our Instructors,
firefighters/police/nurses, have EMS credentials, their life saving
inspiration in their presentation has brought realism to the students
who formerly felt “it won’t happen to me”, and has increased their
willingness to help others in need. The minimal fee we charge to
train corporate employees helps offset the costs connected with our
children’s programs allowing us to train them for free.

I’m convinced that our future generations will embrace the value of
life by being confident in rendering care to those who may face a
life-threatening emergency.

Carol J. Spizzirri
Founder and President “If a disease were killing our children in the
proportions that accidents are, people would be
outraged and demand that this killer be stopped.”
Dr. C. Everett Koop
Former U.S. Surgeon General

Message from the President


Save A Life Foundation Boards

Honorary Chairman Illinois State Spokesman


David Hasselhoff Hon. Jesse White, Secretary of State
Baywatch Productions

Illinois Ambassador Medical Advisors


Il First Lady Lura Lynn Ryan Stanley Zydlo, MD, Director

Board of Directors Peter Safar, MD Professor SRC, Univ. Pitts.


Carol J. Spizzirri, President/Founder Dr. Henry Heimlich MD, Heimlich Inst. OH
Honorable Sam Amirante, Vice Pres. Ernest A. Pretto Jr., MD VA Hosp. SRC Pitts
Hon Martin Sandoval, Sec. Robert Boyd Tober, MD FACEP Dir. EMS, FL
Daniel A. Caravello, Treas. Nicholas Bircher, MD SRC, Univ. Pitts
Carlos Azcotia Ewe Ebmeyer, MD, Germany
Scott Betzelos, MD Mark Mitchell DO, ST John’s, Springfield
Deloris M. Burnam
Legal Counsel
Robert Conroy
Robert M. Motta, Esq.
Michael Lavelle, Esq.

Stanley Zydlo, MD Auditor


Denise Urban, CPA
Blue Angels Committee
Hon. Walter Dudycz

Ralph DeBartolo

Bill Nolan

Director and Advisory Boards


Founder and President

Carol J. Spizzirri, BSN, Mt. Scenario College, WI,


worked on renal transplant unit at Froedart Memorial
Hospital, Milwaukee. Mother of three daughters, founder,
and president and executive directors of Save A Life
Foundation, an internationally recognized not-for-profit
foundation which has been instrumental in the passage of
state and national legislation since 1993.

She recruited world-renowned emergency medical experts, Dr. Peter Safar, Father of CPR
and Dr. Henry Heimlich to support her theory. Carol authored two, child and young
adult, Life Supporting First Aid programs being taught in elementary through high schools
throughout Illinois. Co-authored two advanced training programs, currently
being used in the work place.

Carol has been a guest speaker at health and school conferences and has been interviewed
by hundreds of newspaper, magazines, journals, radio and television talk shows. She has
worked closely with local, state and national legislators and heads of state and national
emergency health agencies worldwide and accredited as a “Pre-Emergency Specialist”, for
her role in developing a basic system to train a critical mass of citizens emergency prepared.

Carol J. Spizzirri
Honorable Sam Amirante

Hon. Sam Amirante


Vice President

In nearly eleven years as an Associate


Judge of the Circuit
Court of Cook County, Illinois, Judge
Amirante has carried out his duties with
Competence and integrity, has earned
Approval and consistent praise from court
Watchers, citizens and government
Officials. Judge Amirante attended
Loyola University graduating with
A Bachelor of Science degree in
1970 and Loyola University School
Of Law graduate in 1974 in the upper
Third of his class with a Juris Doctor
Degree (JD)
From 1974 to 1978, as an assistant Cook County Public Defender, Amirante appeared
in hundreds of felony and misdemeanor bench and jury trails. In 1978 he entered the
private practice of law, and that same year with attorney Robert M. Motta, took on the
unpopular task of providing legal counsel for mass murderer John Wayne Gacy. At the
conclusion of the trial, the trial judge commended Amirante and Motta for the excellent
legal defenses, which they provided.

Following the Gacy trial, Amirante authored the “I Search” Bill, (Illinois State Enforce
Agency to Recover Children); procedures, which he felt, should be followed up by police
departments after receiving reports of missing children. The “I Search” Bill was enacted
by the Illinois General Assembly as part of the Missing Child Act of 1984, and is
credited with helping to locate more than 3,000 missing youngsters. Judge Amirante and
his wife, Mary Elizabeth, live in Palatine, Illinois. They have two sons, Samuel Michael,
24, a student; and James Richard, 21, a member of the U.S. Marine Corp. Reserve.

The People behind SALF


Hon. Martin A. Sandoval

Hon. Martin A Sandoval


Secretary

Martin Sandoval has a B.S. Degree from


Loyola University, Chicago, Quigley
Preparatory Seminary in, Chicago graduate
1982. From 1984 to 1990, Mr. Sandoval
served as a Contract Administrator for
the U.S. Dept. of Defense, Chicago, and served
as a Contract Specialist for the U.S. Dept. of
Veterans Affairs, negotiating contracts for
hospital equipment in 1990.

From 1991 through 1995, while Program Analyst/Senior Advisor to the Director,
Superfund Div. Of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, region 5, Sandoval
received collateral-duty appointments from within the agency and the federal
community of Chicago. In addition, in 1991 Mr. Sandoval was appointed and
recognized as “Agency of the Year”, in 1992 and 1993, and “Hispanic
Employment Program Manager of the Year” in 1993 by the Chicago Federal
Executive Board.

Mr. Sandoval was appointed Commissioner of the Metropolitan Water


Reclamation District of Greater Chicago by Illinois Governor George Ryan in
1999, and chairs both the Engineering Committee and Public Health and Welfare
Committees. This year he was elected, by popular vote as Commissioner of the
Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, which is currently
serving his four-year term in office.

The People behind SALF


Treasurer

Daniel A. Caravello
Treasurer

Senior Vice President


Royal American Bank

Mr. Caravello resided on the northwest side of Chicago until 1991 when he
moved to Mundelein. He graduated from Elmhurst College with a Bachelor of
Science degree in business. Dan started his banking career in 1969 at Colonial
Bank at the Belmont and Central location in Chicago. He was appointed Vice
President and Controller in 1985. In 1988 he headed Operations for a de novo
bank in Vernon Hills as Vice President, Cashier and Controller. The bank grew
to over $50 million in assets in five years. Dan was appointed Senior Vice
President, Cashier and Controller and held regional controllership
responsibilities for three banks within the Colonial Bank group by 1994. He
joined Royal American bank in 1995, as Senior Vice President and Controller.

The People Behind SALF


Scott Anderson

Scott Anderson
Anderson Business Equipment

Scott Anderson has been an


entrepreneur on office
equipment sales and service
throughout Chicago and surrounding communities
since 1973. Anderson is a self-made man who recognized
the future demand for electronic equipment within a
continuously changing business world. To keep pace
with the rapidly growing e-commerce business,
Anderson created an on-line supply company “The
Toner Source” adjoined by a telemarketing branch. Mr.
Anderson brought his business expertise to the Save A
Life Foundation since 1994 and was appointed to the
Board of Directors since 1996. Served as Treasurer from
1998 to 1999.

The People behind SALF


Dr. Scott Betzelos, MD

Dr. Scott Betzelos M.D.

Dr. Betzelos is the


chairman and Medical
Director of the
emergency department
at St. Elizabeth’s
Hospital in Chicago. Betzelos has enhanced the
healthcare delivery system at the emergency
department by promoting the team parallel approach to
patient care processes, reducing delay for patients to
receive medical attention to less than 1.5 hours after
presentation. A former assistant to Dr. Stan Zydlo at
Northwestern Community Hospital, he assisted in
administration and training of the paramedics in one of
the oldest and largest systems in the state of Illinois.

The People Behind SALF


Deloris M. Burnam

Deloris Burnam

B.S.N., Cook County Hospital,


Chicago, retired. Volunteered for
thirty-five years, and current
Treasurer for the Chicago Regional
PTA, serves as Parliamentarian for
the Chicago Public Local School Council.
Member of the Chicago Urban League as monitor for ten Chicago high
schools in the Math Counts program. Presently she is chairman of Early
Childhood Development, Illinois Parent Teacher Association, Health
and Welfare Dept., Recording Secretary for Morgan High School and a
board member of the Chicago Asthma Consortium

The People behind SALF


Robert Conroy

Robert Conroy

Mr. Conroy is the president of Green Bak Publishing Company,


Naperville, Illinois. In 1989, after ten years in the graphic design and
typesetting industry in Ireland, Mr. Conroy immigrated to the United
States. Mr. Conroy took a position with the Western Railroad
Association, a railroad publication service, where he ran the “Tariff
Publication Typesetting Dept.” until 1995.

For the past five years, Mr. Conroy has built a strong client relationship
based on reputation and a deep commitment to the needs and goals of
each client.

The People behind SALF


Consultants

Robert Motta, Esquire


Corporate Counsel

Mr. Motta concentrates his practice in general civil litigation, criminal, and employment
law. He attended DePaul University for undergraduate studies and received his J.D.
form IIT/Chicago-Kent College of Law. For seven years, Mr. Motta was with the Cook
County Public Defender’s Office, where he became the First Assistant in the First
Municipal District and a trial attorney in the Felony Division. He is a partner in the law
firm of Lavelle, Motta, Klopfenstein & Saletta, Ltd., located in Franklin Park, Illinois.

Denise Urban
Accountant

Mrs. Urban is the audit manager of Ahlbeck & Company in Des Plaines, Illinois where
she has worked since graduation from the University of Illinois-Urbana almost seven
years ago. Her expertise with not-for-profits has given the firm the ability to address
industry issues and to stay committed to the monitoring and application of trends. Mrs.
Urban recently became a mother to a beautiful baby girl.

The People behind SALF


Michael Lavelle

Michael Lavelle, ESQ.

Mr. Lavelle is a graduate from John Marshall, 1969, and has been a practicing

attorney in Illinois for 29 years. He is a principle in the law firm of Lavelle,

Motta, Klopfenstein & Saletta, Ltd., a six-lawyer firm based in Franklin Park,

Illinois. Mr. Lavelle maintains a general litigation practice with a concentration

in constitutional, governmental, and election law. He has written and lectured

on numerous elections related subjects and has served as the chairman of the

Illinois State Board of Elections and as chairman of the Chicago Board of

Elections Commissioners

The People behind SALF


Dr Stanley Zydlo MD

Dr. Stanley Zydlo, M.D.

Dr. Zydlo is often fondly referred to as the “Father of


EMS”, emergency medical services, because of his
wisdom, perseverance and determination that
designed and implemented the first multi-community
EMS System in the United State in 1972.

Dr. Zydlo realized the vital need to have trained individuals, other than physicians, who
could initiate on-site pre-hospital care in order to reduce death and prevent deterioration,
especially in emergency situations. Over the years Dr. Zydlo has been chosen “Flight
Surgeon of the Year”, for the USAF SAC Second Air Force, founded three homes for
several mentally retarded children, served as chairman of the City of Chicago Project
Medical Director’s Consortium, co-chaired the first American College of Emergency
Physicians, IL. Chapter, chairman of the Board of Directors for MESA, Project Medical
Director for Northwestern Community Hospital and was appointed as Assistant Medical
Director for the Chicago Fire Department to assist in the development of their EMS
platform. Dr. Zydlo works at Rush Presbyterian Hospital’s emergency medical service
department.

The People behind SALF


Medical Director Dr Stanley Zydlo

Medical Director’s Report

In 1999 Save A Life Foundation introduced


two new programs, Bystander Basics Advanced
(Meeting OSHA and Daycare Provider Standards)
and Bystanders Basics A.E.D. Nearly 10,000
Americans die each year as a result of on-the-job
related injuries. Job related illnesses are on the rise
and medical costs for businesses are soaring.. A
comprehensive "Bystander Basics Advanced OSHA"
program can slow these trends and reduce the negative
impact of on-the job illness and injury.
"Bystander Basics Advanced" program was designed to be in compliance with OSHA
First Aid Standard 29 CFR 1910.151, with an emphasis placed on Life Saving First Aid.
It also deals with Daycare Provider requirements with topics such as Children and
Poisoning and Child and Infant CPR. This program is approximately 3 hours in length,
with one hour dedicated to hands-on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
"Bystander Basics A.E.D." is a one-hour program geared for adults 18 years and older.
This curriculum compliments either the "Bystander Basics" or "Bystander Basics
Advanced OSHA" program. Topics covered in the "Bystander Basics A.E.D." program
are; Sudden Death, The function of the Heart & Circulatory System, What is an A.E.D.
Special Considerations, Scenarios for use of A.E.D.'s.
The A.E.D. program is designed to instruct and evaluate in the use of this device and
enable the user to provide a better chance to SAVE A LIFE. This course will offer
information that provides answers to almost any question and will leave the student
feeling fully confident in recognizing the need for and how to use an A.E.D.

Dr Stanley Zydlo

Medical Director’s Report


Mayors Article Page 1

Save A Life Foundation


By RITA MULLINS, Mayor of Palatine, and IRV BOCK, Mayor of Hanover Park

As Mayors and Village Presidents we are charged with the In our society, it seems that all too often people turn away
Health, Safety and Well Being of our residents, this means when they see someone in trouble, or who suddenly becomes
the young people as well. Rita Mullins Mayor of Palatine ill or injured. Many of us are simply afraid to help because of
and Irv Bock Mayor of Hanover Park have become fear being sued, contacting a diseases, or making the situation
involved in an organization that they feel helps fulfill some worse because of a lack of knowledge.
of that requirement.
The intent of the Save A Life Foundations program is to
The Save A Life Foundation came to be in existence deliver the most important lifesaving information in a simple,
through the efforts of Carol Spizzirri, founder, mother and concise format designed to fit into our busy lives. The program
nurse who on Labor Day, 1992 lost her child Christina to a will teach those taking the course just what they need to know.
fatal hit and run car accident. Christina's life might have
been saved had the first persons that arrived on the scene SALF has focused on the need of creating a critical mass of
given prompt first aid until the professionals arrived. Since trained children in Life Supporting First Aid (LSFA) skills.
that time Carol has channeled her grief by establishing the Working with EMS/Fire Departments and schools SALF has
Save A Life Foundation devoting herself and demanded of trained more than 43,000 children in the Chicago school
others to get involved in the process of educating people in district and became part of Governor George Ryan's' budget,
these most basic skills. The SALF is a not for-Profit appropriating funds to teach all school children throughout the
organization dedicated to the promotion and education of state of Illinois in First Aid and CPR.
Life Supporting First Aid.
SALF has experienced tremendous growth in the last two
Through Carols' efforts SALF was able to have a law years. From teaching a simple basic first aid program to children,
passed in Illinois mandating first aid and CPR training SALF's curriculum now consists of four comprehensive training
for all new police and firefighters. With the assistance programs geared to people of all ages. The program consists of
of Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL) a federal Save A Life for Kids, Bystander Basics, Bystander Advanced
appropriation was sponsored and passed by President (OSHA, Daycare Providers) and Bystander Basics Automatic
Clinton, providing funds for First Aid and CPR training External Defibrillation.
for all police and emergency personnel nationwide.
Our audience has grown from school children to businesses of
SALF has grown to include a team of dedicated volunteers all sizes. SALF has trained employees from companies such as
who promote our life saving mission. Save A Life Lead Core and U.S. Steel and has been brought in to teach the
Foundation is fortunate to have an internationally Chicago Police Department. SALF will also be working with
recognized panel of experts as our Medical Advisory the Federal Aviation Administration in training employees and
Board, such notable individuals as Dr. Henry Heimlich, developing standards for the aviation industry.
father of the Heimlich maneuver and head of the Heimlich
SALF's training programs are as follows:
Institute, Dr. Peter Safar developer of Cardio Pulmonary
Resuscitation (CPR) and the head of the Safar Research Save A Life for Kids is a one-hour program that teaches
Center, Pittsburgh, Pa. and Dr. Stanley Zydlo, father of elementary school children from kindergarten through eighth
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and SALF's Medical grade. Children learn skills such as scene safety, contacting
Director. Emergency Medical Services, bleed control, opening an airway,
early heart attack care, Heimlich maneuver and rescue breathing.
Life is full of surprises. Some of them are pleasant
and others are not. When we find suddenly find Bystander Basics is a two-hour program geared for young
ourselves face to face with a crisis it is important to adults age 13 and older, which teaches all the above as well as
know what to do, either to fix the problem, or to CPR
keep it from getting worse.

Mayor’s Article
Mayor’s Article Page 2

Bystander Basics Advanced is a three-hour program that


meets OSHA standards, expands upon these skills by also teaching
C-Spine control, shock management, critical burn management,
initial wound care, and how to recognize various emergencies and
prioritize multiple casualty situations.

Bystander Basics A.E.D. is a one-hour program intended for


adults 18 and over that includes training in sudden death, the
function of the heart and circulatory system and how and when to
use an automatic external defibrillator.

Save A Life Foundation has several current programs. These are:

1. Life Saving Skills for School Bus Drivers and School


Administrators. Through a joint effort with the Illinois State Board
of Education and the Secretary of State, SALF has proceeded with
the plans for a program to train the 23,000 Illinois school bus drivers
with basic hands-on life supporting first aid, including CPR
Mayor Rita Mullins
2. Blue Angels Program. A partnership with the Illinois
Criminal Justice Information Authority, Chicago Police
Department, Office of the Superintendent of the Chicago Police,
and the Police Academy to train police officers with EMS
credentials to become in-house instructors for fellow officers in
their police departments. These officers will also outreach their
communities by providing training in life saving skills to local
schools.

3. Creation of Branch Offices. With an eye on the future,


SALF negotiated a partnership and established a regional training
site at Saint John's Hospital in Springfield. This was the first step in
marketing our educational training into communities inadequately
served by emergency medical services. Recently, at the National
Conference of State Legislatures in Chicago, several states, most
notably Connecticut, Texas and North Carolina, approached SALF
about establishing branch offices in their states.
What started as a tragedy for one woman has become a healthy,
thriving and important organization making a difference and facing
the challenge of making our society a better place for all.

Most often, the people that you will be called upon to help are
those we spend the most time with, our family, neighbors, and
friends. This program will prepare your residents to recognize
emergencies and teach them the right way to deal with emergencies.
As mayors, we have an opportunity to assist in getting the word out
to all our residents about the importance of these programs. The Mayor Irv Bock
Save A Life Foundation will train the trainers for you. Men and
women in your Police, Fire and Public Works departments start the
core groups which consist of school children, social service clubs,
church groups, etc.

Let's work together to support the philosophy of the Save A Life


Foundation.

Mayor’s Article
Pilot Study

Illinois Life Saving First Aid for Children Pilot Study


“Save A Life For Kids” and “Bystander Basics” are age appropriate programs for children ages 4
through adult. Save A Life Foundation (SALF) Instructors, with emergency medical service
(EMS) credentials, train children in basic lifesaving skills including the need to know of, scene
safety, accessing EMS and the role of EMS provider, recognizing an emergency…bleed
control…open an airway…rescue breathing…Heimlich Maneuver for infant, child, adult, and CPR
for infant, child and adult, within their own classroom environment.

In 1999, SALF developed plans for a community-based facility to research the methodologies,
effectiveness and retention of Basic Life Supporting First Aid (LSFA) training for children. SALF
has since accomplished its goal with the implementation of Save A Life For Kids, (grades K-7) and
Bystander Basics, (grades 8-12). The program presentation by EMS volunteers to 2nd through 12th
grades, with different ethnic and social backgrounds in 125 Chicagoland schools, demonstrated the
significant life saving difference children could make.

Those interested in becoming a SALF Instructor would fill out an application and police
background check form and provided proof of EMS credentials. They received a three-hour
orientation, emphasizing a child’s learning needs, the requirements of training each program
module and testing procedures. The applicant was given a photo ID to be worn upon entering any
school, a uniform shirt to reflect their EMS image, and assigned to a Senior Instructor. The
applicant accompanied and assisted with as many classes the Senior felt necessary to meet SALF’s
training standards. The new SALF Instructor was than assigned to classes within his community,
issued training materials and hands-on practice equipment.

Each school class size was between 25-30 students of which the Instructor averaged four classes a
day. Each child received either a “Save A Life For Kids” or “Bystander Basics” training book,
according to age group, and witnessed the Instructor’s presentation, followed by participating in
hands-on practice for each skill. During orientation, an applicant was directed not to exceed the
30 minutes time limited for non-readers K-2, 60 minutes time limited for grades 3-7 or the two
hours time limited for grades 8-12. After the children were trained, the Instructor handed a test
sheet to each child containing 10 multiple choose skills questions. Readers were directed to answer
each question on a Scantron card, while each question was read by the Instructor to non-readers,
who were than directed to circle the correct multiple choose picture on their sheet. This process
took ten minutes.

The tests were developed to monitor the effectiveness of training, the child’s retention of basic
emergency techniques while enjoying an emergency preparedness class without losing interest or
become confused. Two questions, out of the ten, were strictly opinion questions that related to a
child’s personal feelings about their willingness and confidence to help others.

Illinois LSFA Pilot Study for Children


Pilot Study

In addition, the observing classroom teacher was provided an Evaluation form to cross check the
number of children being trained, the Instructor’s presentation, student’s interest and training
material content. Teacher Evaluation forms, Scantron cards and/or non-reader tests were gathered
by the Instructor at the end of class and returned to SALF Headquarters for processing and
analysis. SALF posters, stickers, and a brochure alerting parents to what their child had learned
that day, were distributed to each class. Before the Instructor left, the students were again
encouraged to re-read their books and discuss what they learned with their family and friends.

Our control group included a pre, post, and re-test, three months later, for 48,071 students over
seven and one-half months (7 ½), or one school semester. The study revealed 97% skills retention
after three months and 57% positive attitude change in the willingness of helping those in need.

There were five reported saves by our trained children,


plus a 100% positive feedback from school administrators.
The overall cost of the program ranged between $2.75 and
$4.95 per child, which covered materials and Instructor
fees only. The Chicago Board of Education passed a
Resolution in September, 1999 to include SALF’s
programs in their annual curriculum.

This was a free program to public school children by


SALF through a grant from the Department of Commerce
and Community Affairs and supplemental income from
other SALF programs. DCCA’s” Monitoring Report” will
be furnished upon request.

The children’s programs continue expanding to include


Over 100,000 trained Illinois children in fiscal year 2000
Through a line item in the Illinois State Board of
Education budget.

Carol J. Spizzirri
Dr. Stanley Zydlo

Illinois LSFA Pilot Study for Children


Illinois Training

Test Data from Tests Given Before,


After and 3 months later
Save A Life For Kids Classes

Questions asked Kids on Tests to


Determine their Confidence and
Willingness to Help Others
57% Improvement Seen Overall

Children’s Study
Illinois Training

Over 350,000 Public School children


Trained in Illinois

Lake County
Public Schools
Region 7

Chicago Public
Schools
Region 11

Cook County
Public Schools
Region 7

Springfield Branch
St. John’s Hospital
Covers Region 3 and 5

Regions Currently Trained


Save A Life Foundation’s Regions follow the Illinois EMS System’s Regional borders. Region 3 and 5
are covered by SALF’s branch, St. John’s Hospital, Springfield. Currently facilitated by Jan Kelley, RN
and former flight nurse, St. John’s has performed above all expectations. Local law enforcement,
corporations, government agencies and local schools have availed themselves of St. John’s excellent
implementation of the SALF adult and children’s programs.

Other SALF Branches


Region 11, Chicago, is facilitated by Clinton Elmore

Scott Vaughn facilitates Lake County in Region 7.

West to Kane county facilitated by Tom Hite.

Save A Life Foundation’s Headquarters currently handles all other non-assigned regions.

More Branches are coming on-line this year and expanding beyond Illinois in the 2001-2002 fiscal year.

3 additional region branches are expected to open before the end of fiscal year 2002

Training in Illinois
Region 3

Jan Kelley, RN
St. Johns SALF Facilitator
St John’s Hospital Save A Life Branch
The St. John's Hospital, Springfield Illinois opened it's doors in their
Emergency Medical Service Department March, 2000 to house a SALF
Regional Branch Office. Since it's inception, the SALF Facilitator, Jan
Kelley, RN, former flight nurse, has reported a more than enthusiastic
response to it's presence. What was to be a part-time position with a
number of volunteers from the hospital assisting her with the demand for
the training throughout Sangamon County and it's 27 surrounding
municipalities that make up Illinois EMS Region 3.
In just a few months SALF St. John's found themselves faced with the orientation of 40 Instructors who
have already trained over 2,000 children in District # 186 and surrounding counties. The demand continues
daily by schools, businesses, day care providers and the Sangamon County Sheriff's Department
Being a Branch in Springfield, the state capitol, has prompted the invitations from prominent state agencies,
such as the Illinois State Fire Marshall, Illinois School Nurses Association, etc. for SALF to participate
in conferences or make presentations at various events.
We have participated in the Illinois State Fair at the Illinois State fire Marshall's Tent. Our mascot Perry
Medic, has been invited to be in the Springfield Christmas parade, and be part of the Children's
Miracle Network's “Miracle on Mason Street”, where we collected over $200,000 for the EMS department
of which a portion goes to help SALF train our school age children for no cost, as well as other well
deserved causes.” said Jan Kelley.
The Branch has already become self-funded through fees generated from corporate and community training
which transfers back to train their local school children for free.
Plans are underway for SALF's State Conference, which will be held in May of 2001. Since 1993, the
Illinois Governor has proclaimed this time as Save A Life Week in conjunction with EMS Week. Dr. Henry
Heimlich, Heimlich maneuver, will be a guest speaker.

St. John’s Hospital Branch


Volunteers & Facilitators

Tom Hite, FF/EMT-P


EMS Region 8
Jan Kelley, RN Hanover Park Facilitator
Trauma Flight Nurse
EMS Region 3
Springfield Facilitator

Clinton Elmore, FF/EMT-P


EMS Region 11
Chicago Facilitator

The following volunteers have gone above and beyond


their duties and are hereby recognized.

Jaime Alatorre George Korzen Pat Sherlock


Sid Blustain Art Lewis Rossey Smith
Melvin Cosey Janet Lindstrom Juan Sotomayor
Kirkland Flowers Lea Vester Martin Sebastian Straughter
George Gurrola Marlon Mathews Lional Tally
Rob Harvey Mark McMillan Claudia Terrell
Dwayne Hawkins Jim Neary Scott Vaughn
Adolph Johnson Bill Pink Bobby Williams
Leon Johnson Donnie Reid Dwain Williams
Veronica Johnson Mike Rucker Winston Williams
Richard Jones Albert Shaw

Volunteer Instructors
Expansion of SALF

National Basic Emergency Lifesaving Skills Guidelines


Injury remains one of the top killers in America, Over 2.5 million children needlessly die each year due to
illness and injury, of which 50% of these lives could have been saved if prompt basic life supporting aid
were administered prior to emergency medical service (EMS) arrival.

Using the Save A Life Foundation’s “Save A Life For Kids” and “Bystander Basics” programs, the U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services, Maternal and Child Health Bureau, designed national guidelines
to reduce child and youth mortality and morbidity rates sustained by illness and injuries occurring in schools.
The provision of First Aid and CPR training to children in schools is one very important component of their
commitment. Basic Emergency Lifesaving Skills (BELS) serves as a guideline for schools to select courses
in safety within a school system. An endorsement SALF received from the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration, DC, prompted the committee to use the SALF children’s programs in the development of the
BELS guidelines.

The data collected by SALF in its 1998/99 school year, “Illinois Emergency Life supporting First Aid” pilot
study, demonstrated interest from injury prevention groups nationwide in developing the need for national
life saving standards for all schools.

Future Expansion of SALF


- Area’s/EMS regions we are currently supported in and are actively training

- We expect 5 branches in IL by November 2001 as well as expanding to


build branches in 3 other states.

- We expect to expand into these 5 states by January 2002

We’re Going Nationwide!


Save A Life Foundation Week

Only A Few of the Hundreds of Governor’s and Mayor’s


Proclamations

Save A Life Foundation Week


Proclaimed by Mayors and Governors Alike, Nationally

Governors and thousands of mayors from across the country have proclaimed May 20th – 26th as Save A
Life Foundation Week in concert with Emergency Medical Service Week. This focuses on the need for
the “bystander” to administer Basic Life Saving techniques, including Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
(CPR) and Automatic External Defibrillation (AED), to help maintain life until professionals arrive, thus
significantly reducing deaths and disabling injuries.
Recently, Save A Life Foundation was chosen by the American Trauma Foundation (ATF) as one of the
top seven organizations molded from a personal tragedy that has made a significant difference in America.
Joining SALF’s story that appeared in ATF’s “Channeling Grief Into Policy Change”, Injury Prevention
Newsletter, Volume 13, were the Danny Foundation, Kids In Danger, Drowning Prevention Foundation,
Stop for Kids Safety, California for Safe Motorcycling, and Trunk Release Urgently Needed Coalition.
This well presented newsletter has reached over 50,000 medical and trauma professionals nationwide.

We’re Going Nationwide!


Dinner Dance 1999

350 people attended the 1999 awards


ceremony.
Awards presented:
“Entertaining”
”Award of Excellence”:
Dr. Henry Heimlich for one of his greatest contributions
to medicine, the Heimlich Maneuver.
“Outstanding Leadership Award”:
IL Secretary of State Jesse White for his willingness to
take a stand in promoting the training of SALF’s life
supporting programs.
“Christina Jean Tree of Life Award”: Chicago Police
Officers Wayne Wiberg and Thomas Crain for their key
roles, while on duty, in saving a man’s life after he
suffered serious stab wounds.
“Walter Dudycz Award”: IL State Senator Walter
Dudycz received Illinois’ first “Walter Dudycz Award” for
his contributions to SALF’s statewide growth.
“Education Award”: Chicago Board of Education for

“Wonderful evening”
recognizing the need and opening the doors to Chicago’s
630 schools for SALF to train their 500,000 children.
Special awards were given to leading SALF instructors
for their efforts in training children throughout Illinois and
the personal dedication to this important cause.
IL Secretary of State Jesse White and the “Jesse White
Tumblers” amazed guests with their acrobatic abilities.
Professional singers Shellie Jacobs and Jack Miuccio
delighted everyone with their gifted voices, while the
Groovs Group impressed the audience with modern dance
numbers.
DJ Jack Scarsella supplied the music throughout the
evening.

Save A Life Foundation began a special fund to help


the Swoboda Family deal with their tragedy after a
Dr Henry Heimlich
fatal car accident took the life of the mother and Award Recipient
seriously injured the father and 8 children. State Senator Walter Dudycz MC’ed
Carol J. Spizzirri, Ill. Sen. David Sullivan, and Ralph
DeBartolo, Italian American Police Assoc., presented this year’s dinner which was attended by
a check to the family to assist in coping with their many dignitaries and officials.
financial burdens.

Awards Dinner Dance 1999


Dinner Dance 2000

Save A Life Foundation’s 2000 Annual


Awards Dinner Dance honored those in the
public service, EMS, and medical fields for their
contributions to the safety and well being of
children and their communities.
SALF Award of Excellence:
For developing his LSFA tool used as the
basis for SALF’s programs. “The Father of CPR”
Dr. Peter Safar, MD, HC, FCCM, FCCP
Lifetime Achievement Award:
For his role in advancing SALF’s programs and
developing our AED program. “Father of EMS”.
Dr. Stanley Zydlo, MD, FACEP
Outstanding Public Service Award: Outstanding Public Service Award
For his role in advancing SALF nationally. given to US Senator Henry Hyde
Hon. Henry Hyde, US Congressman seen here with Mayor Irv Bock, Carol
Outstanding Community Service Award: J. Spizzirri and Mayor Rita Mullins
For their roles in developing SALF’s Blue Angels Program
to teach police lifesaving skills.
Walter W. Dudycz, Illinois State Senator
Ralph Capparelli, Illinois State Representative
The Walter Dudycz Distinguished Service
Award:
Brian Churchill Art Lewis
Kirkland Flowers Dr Mark Mitchell
George Gurrola Jim Neary
Jan Kelley Winston Williams

Dr. Peter Safar Life


Supporting Award Recepient:
Mary Rohan, RN and Police Officer
Mike Nolan she saved.

Dr. Peter Safar, recipient of the This year’s dinner was Emc’d by Mr.
SALF Award of Excellence Michael Barz, WGN Morning News.

The event was opened with the invocation given by Carlos Cortez, Chicago Police Chaplain and followed by
Marcus Love and Love Inc, Concert Choral Group.
DJ Jack Miuccio, Victor Pacini, Danielle, and others entertained throughout the night.

Awards Dinner Dance 2000


Budget 1999

Corporate
Branch Training
Development And Other*
School Training Programs

Statements of Financial Position December 31, 1999


Amount % of
December 31, 1999 Income by Program:
Kids Program $ 401,590 0.84
Current Assets $ 556,502 Corporate Training 16,831 0.04
Fixed Assets at Net Book Value 60,843 Blue Angels* - 0.00
Branch Development - 0.00
Total Assets 617,345 Federal Expansion - 0.00
Fund Development* 34,692 0.07
M&G* 24,575 0.05
Current Liabilities $ 4,166 Total Income 477,688
Long Term Liabilities 65,475
Total Liabilities $ 69,641 Expenses by Program:
Kids Program 482,027 0.85
Corporate Training* 26,860 0.05
Unrestricted Net Assets 49,294 Blue Angels* 601 0.00
Temporarily Restricted Net Assets 498,410 Branch Development* - 0.00
Total Net Assets 547,704 Federal Expansion* - 0.00
New Program Dev* 16,570 0.03
Fund Development* 39,292 0.07
Total Liabilities and Net Assets $ 617,345 M&G* 764 0.00

Total Expenses 566,114

Operating Surplus (Deficit) (88,426)

The above statements are summaries based on the audited


financial statements. The complete audited financial statements
are available upon request.

Year 1999 Income and Expense

Financials 1999
Budget 2000

Corporate
Branch Training
Development and Other *
School Training Programs

Statements of Financial Position December 31, 2000


Amount % of
December 31, 2000 Income by Program:
Kids Program $ 617,065 0.70
Current Assets $ 400,954 Corporate Training* 36,704 0.04
Fixed Assets at Net Book Value 54,625 Blue Angels* 13,080 0.01
Branch Development 173,027 0.20
Total Assets $ 455,579 Federal Expansion - -
Fund Development* 26,955 0.03
M&G* 9,304 0.01
Current Liabilities $ 9,232 Total Income 876,135
Long Term Liabilities 65,449
Total Liabilities $ 74,681 Expenses by Program:
Kids Program 618,677 0.65
Corporate Training* 47,921 0.05
Unrestricted Net Assets (27,648) Blue Angels* 11,807 0.01
Temporarily Restricted Net Assets 408,546 Branch Development 173,026 0.18
Total Net Assets 380,898 Federal Expansion* 24,814 0.03
New Program Dev* 4,277 0.00
Fund Development* 61,789 0.06
Total Liabilities and Net Assets $ 455,579 M&G* 10,766 0.01

Total Expenses 953,077

Operating Surplus (Deficit) (76,942)

The above statements are summaries based on the audited


financial statements. The complete audited financial statements
are available upon request.

Year 2000 Income and Expense

Financials 2000
Some of Our Many Supporters

Thank You
to our Many Supporters
Special Considerations to:
Illinois Board of Education
Illinois Department of Public Health
Illinois Dept. of Commerce and Community Affairs

Sponsors
3M Foundation Abbott Laboratory Foundation Andrew Foundation
Shell Oil Company Wine & Spirits Distributors Alexian Bros. Medical Center
Alcoa Foundation St. Alexius Medical Center McDonald’s Children Charities
Green Bak Publishing Arie & Ida Crown Memorial

Contributors
ABATE ABT Electronics Patch Adams
Ahlbeck & Company American Legion Alamo Car Rental
Richard Ballinger, Coroner Black Ram Restaurant R.J. Brennan
Carol Calabresa, Lk Cty Bd Carucci Restaurant Joyce Caito
George Casey Nick Celozzi Citizens for Jesse White
Dick Contino Cumberland Chapels Comm 2
Jack D’Amico Jimmy Damon Senator James DeLeo
Des Plaines Park District Double Tree Hotel Edison Park Bowling and Billiards
Eurotec Systems Corp. Family Radio Service Flavorchem
Fraternal Order of Police Margaret Fuller Sen. Adelaide Geo-Karis
Gibson Graphics Hair by Marla Marie Hause-Campbell
Horizon Foods Hostess Bakery Hotel Sofitel
Italian American Police Jarosh Bakery John Hancock Observatory
Joe’s Pizza Laidlaw Landmark Title
La Salle Bank Made To Order Marcus Love Choral Group
MediCheck Jack Miuccio Nick’s Fish Market
Victor Pacini Margaret Palmer Pasta Basta Restaurant
Pick Wick Restaurant Portillo Restaurant Group Pro Star Promotions
Rand McNally Ribs Restaurant Rosewood Restaurant
Rosemont League Royal American Bank Hon. Martin Sandoval
State Rep. Skip Saviano Daniella Scafidi DJ Jack Scarscella
Hon. Gene Siege Peter Silvestri Slice of Chicago
Susan Smith George & Lyneete Snarski Tony Spavone
St. John’s Hospital Sur La Table Dr. Trocchio
United Airlines Vincer Corporation Jim & Collen Virginelli
William Yates Dr. J. Zucchero

Supporters
AED

Importance of the
Automatic External Defibrillator
The rapid and ever-expanding role of the Automatic External
Defibrillator (A.E.D.) in the field is adding an additional emergency
role to the “Bystander”. Chicago’s O’Hare Airport has initiated a
blanket-training program for employees so they can utilize the
A.E.D.s in emergency situations in the terminals. In my professional
opinion, we are witnessing the best medical intervention seen in the
field. Unlike A.E.D.s and Defibrillators on fire trucks and first
responding apparatuses, these devices are readily available throughout
the airport and can be applied by the“Bystander” within 2 to 3 minutes
of a cardiac arrest.

The main component in any successful treatment of a heart attack victim is rapid response and
defibrillation. For all the years I have worked on the ambulance, I seldom respond in that given
window of 4 to 6 minutes. These devices have given us those valuable minutes back, enabling the
responding paramedics a much greater opportunity of reviving the stricken individuals.

After applying the pads, the “Bystander” has no contact with the patient, except for intermitted CPR
between shocks, if necessary. The A.E.D. will detect any loose connection or improper contacts by the
pads. The A.E.D. is deigned to interpret the patient’s heart rhythm and, in the case of ventricular
fibrillation, it will instruct the “Bystander” to press the cardiovert (put the heart back into a normal
rhythm) button.

The individuals I have witnessed were all cardioverted back in to a normal sinus rhythm, requiring
nothing more than a simple I.V. and oxygen therapy on the way to the hospital.

Save A Life Foundation’s A.E.D. program has been recognized as a complete and basic course with a
high retention level.

Bill Pink, EMT-P


Save A Life Foundation Instructor

A.E.D. Information
DIVIDER
Save A Life Foundation, Inc
9950 W Lawrence Ave Suite 300 Schiller Park, Illinois 60176 www.salf.org
Christina Jean Spizzirri

Christina Jean Spizzirri


August 6, 1974 to September 7,1992

Christina Jean was involved in a fatal car accident in September 1992. The
first people to arrive at the scene were police officers. Despite her serious
injuries, Christina‘s life might have been saved had they given prompt
basic first aid. Carol J. Spizzirri, Christina’s mom, later discovered that it
is not a requirement for police officers, firefighters, 911 dispatchers,
schoolteachers, coaches, and other public servants to be trained in life
saving skills. To help prevent further needless deaths, Carol Spizzirri,
Christina’s mother, founded the Save A Life Foundation..

Th e I n s p i r a t i o n beh i n d S A L F
President/Founder Carol J. Spizzirri

Dear Friends:

Most leaders of organizations, corporations, state, federal and


community when addressing letters to their readers reflect on the
tragedy of September 11. SALF, likewise reflects on 9-11,
but has been reflecting on emergency preparedness from our first
newsletter in 1993.The pain of this emergency situation deeply
hurts and will leave an everlasting pain within the hearts of all
Americans. The magnitude of this disaster has forever changed
the life we once knew.

From the onset of testifying at the U.S. Conference of Mayor’s “emergency summit”, November, 2001 on the role
of the “citizen to be emergency prepared” which led to being part of the “Homeland Security” white paper…to
being appointed to the Illinois “Homeland Security” team…to expanding our messages into four more states…to
training of over 500,000 children in life saving skills…or to the strengthening relationships we have created with
municipal leaders across the country, we’ve far surpassed our goals for 2001.

This has all been hard work by many. We are indebted to those like the National Fraternal Order of Police for their
endorsement, the Illinois Municipal League for including SALF in their website, the members of the U.S.
Conference of Mayors for the thousands of “Save A Life Week” Proclamations, to those state representative like IL
Senator Walter Dudycz, and PA State Representative Petrone who paved the way for our message to go statewide,
to the men and women of the emergency medical service who are always there to train one more person and to the
staff and the facilitators in our Branch offices. And especially to you, who are interested in taking SALF one more
step to Bridging the Gap for Emergency Preparedness.

I’m convinced that Americans have grown stronger with the pains we have endured. Together we will once again
stand tall by making our communities emergency ready and our Homeland secure.

May God bless these United States of America and keep us safe.

Carol J. Spizzirri

M es s a g e f r o m t h e P r es i den t
Illinois Municipal League

The U.S. Conference of Mayors


Illinois Mayors Support Life-Saving Organization

Palatine, Hanover Park Mayors Driving Force Behind Resource for Life-Saving Organization
By Kolina Vortman, USCM Intern April 1, 2002

Since the events of September 11th, security and survival techniques have become important issues in
the minds of Americans. An Illinois based organization that promotes education in important survival
techniques in many American communities is the Save A Life Foundation (SALF), an organization receiving
strong support from Illinois mayors including Palatine Mayor Rita L. Mullins, a Trustee of the Conference of
Mayors, and Hanover Park Mayor Irv Bock.

SALF was founded by director Carol Spizzirri after the tragic accident that caused the death of her daughter,
Christina Jean, on Labor Day, 1992. Christina might have survived the accident if those who were the first
responders to the accident had been educated in basic first aid. After the accident, Carol learned that public
servants, including police officers and firefighters, are not required to be educated in life saving techniques. Carol
then founded SALF in order to prevent unnecessary deaths due to lack of knowledge in first aid.

Being headquartered in Schiller Park (IL) SALF is very active in the communities across the state of Illinois.
Recently, the foundation has begun to expand to other states including Pennsylvania, Florida, Oklahoma,
California, and Wisconsin. SALF is very active in the city of Palatine, Illinois. Mayor Rita Mullins says, "Every
mayors responsibility is to maintain the safety and quality of life for their community. This program assists
mayors in advocating this commission."

SALF has developed many different programs that inform people of all ages in a variety of life saving techniques.
One program, "Bystander Basics," is a two'hour life supporting first aid course for young adults. This course
teaches students internationally recognized first aid guidelines. The objective of this program is to instill the basic
skills needed to maintain the life of an ill or injured person until professional help arrives at the scene. These
skills include recognizing scene safety, early heart attack care, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, rescue breathing,
control bleeding, and others. According to SALF staff member, "SALF bridges the gap between the bystander
and the professional medical support upon arrival at the scene," he said.

Mayor Irv Bock fully supports SALF and it's cause. Acting as the National Director of State Development for
SALF, Mayor Bock raises awareness for SALF and opens new sites for the organization all across the United
States. Due to recent catastrophic events, such as 9/11 and the Oklahoma City Bombing, Mayor Bock realizes the
importance of the Bystander. Mayor Bock explains, "During the time of crisis, there are not enough EMS
personnel to go around. Consequently, hurt individuals have to rely on family members, neighbors, strangers, or
even themselves for aid. The Bystander Basic course enables these individuals to assist in the effort of saving a
life."

"Participation in SALF programs is a tool for citizens to help themselves, their families, and their neighbors,"
explains Mayor Mullins. She describes the goal of the organization during the next ten years is to be for all
citizens to partake in SALF courses before they reach their sixteenth birthday. Mayor Mullins enthusiastically
says that SALF is an invaluable resource in crisis situations since many individuals have received Life-Saving
techniques instruction, preparing for any emergency that may occur.

IML
Medical professionals, such as nurses and EMS personnel, teach all SALF courses. These
instructors are well versed in their courses, and must complete a four hour orientation on the skill of
teaching in order to convey their knowledge in terms everyone can understand them. Additionally,
instructors are required to attend an annual seminar in order to tell of their experiences, help
educate other instructors, express their viewpoints, and learn additional information from other well
disciplined speakers

The goals of the foundation include educating Life Supporting First Aid to all people, encourage
cooperation and amity between communities and their local emergency personnel, and to improve
emergency health awareness communities. Ultimately, through quick and competent intervention,
SALF hopes to increase the survival rate among victims.

Mayor Ralph W. Conner


(Maywood)

(L to R)
Mayor Irv Bock (Hanover Park, IL)
Carol J. Spizzirri SALF Founder/President
Mayor Rita Mullins (Palatine, Il)
Illinois Training

TRAINING
CHILDREN

Growth in Students Taught


Over 400,000 Taught To Date 2001 In 1995 Save A Life Foundation (SALF) began training
children in Life Supporting First Aid (LSFA) skills at local
2000 schools for free through private grants and fundraising
events. By 1998, Illinois State Senator Walter Dudycz
1999 saw the effects this training was having on school age
children and sponsored an appropriations bill to expand
1998 SALF's training.
Starting at 40,000 in 1997
1997 40K Pilot Program, grew to That year SALF took its first big step and challenged the
over 400,000 today Chicago Public Schools system. By the end of that
school year nearly 80,000 K-12th graders had received
Programs for our training with a 97% skills retention level after three
Children months, and a 57% increase in confidence by these same
Bystander students. The Chicago Board of Education was
Basics immediately notified by hundreds of teachers, principles
Save A Life Bystander AED and school nurses of the benefit SALF's programs had on
Kids Basics
their children. This awareness prompted the
10- Chicago Board of Education to pass a resolution for
Adults SALF's children’s programs to be included as part of their
Grades K-2 3-6 7-Adults
Recognizing an X X X X school curriculum.
Emergency
Scene Safety X X X X 1999 to date SALF is a line-item in the Illinois Department
Contacting EMS X X X X of Public Health’s budget and continues increasing
Bleed Control X X X X
its training to students, for free, with supplemental
Opening an Airway X X X
funding it receives from training adult students for a fee.
Heimlich Maneuver This parallel funding system has resulted in a steadily
For infants, children X X X expanding enrollment of nearly 400,000 Illinois children at
and adults
the end of 2001.
Early Heart Attack Care X X X
Rescue Breathing 2001 was the year Pennsylvania's Governor Ridge called
for infants, children X X X upon SALF to meet with his Board of Education and
and adults
Health Department Directors to welcome SALF into his
CPR
For infants, children X X state. We anticipate a great opportunity to mirror Illinois’
and adults success with the children of Pennsylvania and
AED Training X demonstrate to other states that this system can work
anywhere SALF is invited.
Time 30 mts 1 hr 2 hr 4 1/2 hrs

C h i l dr e n ’ s C l a s s e s
First Aid and CPR Programs to Fit the Needs of Our Nation

Kids Can Save You

Dr. Peter Safar


Safar Institute
Pittsburgh, Pa.

Dr. Henry Heimlich


Heimlich Maneuver

Perry Medic® and Emy Tech® have teamed up with Dr. Peter Safar (CPR) and Dr.
Henry Heimlich (Heimlich Maneuver) to train Illinois public school children and adults
in Life Supporting First Aid.

SALF has trained nearly 500,000


children in life supporting skills

Typical
Classes

EMS
Credentialed
Instructors
Dinner Dance 2001

Save A Life Foundation's Annual Awards Dinner Dance 2001 honored those in the public
service, EMS, medical fields and the everyday bystander for their contributions to the safety and well
being of children and their communities.

US Marine
Color Guard

This Year’s Emcee,


Corinne Wood
Illinois Lt. Governor

Mayor Donald E. Stephens


Elizabeth (Saved by Bystander)
Carol J. Stephens

Guest of Honor
Dr. Henry Heimlich
Heimlich Maneuver

Luis Espinosa, Phd.and Ruben Archilla, Cook


County Sheriff’s Deputy, received awards for
saving little Elizabeth’s life. Dr. Heimlich presenting an award to Fabian
Marquez for saving his brother.
Over 600 people attended this year’s festivities.

A w a r ds D i n n er D a n c e 2002
Just Some of the Events
January, 2001
• SALF participated in the Maine Township Senior Health Fair
• SALF attended the US President’s Inauguration
February, 2001
• SALF participated in the Service Learning Conference through the Constitutional Rights Foundation in Chicago
March, 2001
• SALF selected staff members participated in Non Profit Leadership Day conference sponsored by Executive Service Corps
• SALF was a presenter and exhibitor at the Niles North H.S. Health Fair
April, 2001
• SALF participated Prairie State “Partnerships” Job Fair
• SALF was present for the School Health Days Conference by the Catholic Charities
May, 2001
• SALF was a presenter and exhibitor at the St. John’s Hospital EMS Conference
• SALF presented a workshop, gave out Life saving Awards to children, and exhibited at the Illinois State PTA Conference
• Save A Life Week, May 20-26, 2001
• Official Proclamations were received from 13 governors and over 200 municipalities.
• SALF was an educational presenter at the Chicago Fire Department’s “Safety for Life Fair” for 500 school children at
Comiskey Park
• SALF held a special AED Training Secession for SALF instructors
• AED Program Created and implemented
June, 2001
• Expanded National Headquarters facilities in Schiller Park, Illinois
• Motivational Summit 2001, held at the Rosemont Theatre
• Developed Internet – Intranet sites
July, 2001
• Developed with AT&T Broadband –SALF Public Service Announcement (PSA)Basic Presentation
• SALF gave presentation to the Greater O’Hare Association business luncheon
• Began developing Pittsburgh Branch
• SALF gave a presentation at the Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce meeting
• IDPH Line item for 2002 (State Appropriations)
August, 2001
• Developed joint partnership with Alexian Brothers
• SALF was at the State Fair Fire Marshall’s Tent with presentations
September, 2001
• CDC Grant awarded
• SALF was an exhibitor at the Northbrook Fire Department’s Safety Fair at the Northbrook Mall
• SALF AWARDS DINNER GALA at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
October, 2001
• Redesigned and improved website
• SALF participated in Columbus Day Parade
• SALF attended the Women’s Business Development Center’s “Smart Women, Smart Money” Conference
• SALF gave testimony at the Illinois Homeland Security conference
November, 2001
• SALF attended the Emergency Summit at U.S. Conference of Mayors.
• Established “The Bystander” radio show
December, 2001
• SALF presenter at Health and Wellness Field Trip – Urban Northwest Consortium (Kenwood, Hedricks,
Washburne, Parker, New Trier, Hope, and Burn High Schools) and Whitney Young Magnet School Field Trip
to Museum of Science and Industry.
• SALF participated in the Christmas Parade in Springfield, Illinois
• Radio show with WJJG
• Woman Achievement Award from Lt. Governor Corrine Wood
• Nominated for Hero of the Year award from United Airlines

Ev e n ts A tte n d e d b y SA LF
Save A Life Foundation Week

Only A Few of the Hundreds of Governor’s and Mayor’s


Proclamations

Save A Life Foundation Week


Proclaimed by Mayors and Governors Alike, Nationally

Governors and thousands of mayors from across the country have proclaimed May 19th – 25th as Save A Life Foundation Week in concert
with Emergency Medical Service Week. This focuses on the need for the “bystander” to administer Basic Life Saving techniques, including
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automatic External Defibrillation (AED), to help maintain life until professionals arrive, thus
significantly reducing deaths and disabling injuries.
Save A Life Foundation was chosen by the American Trauma Foundation (ATF) as one of the top seven organizations molded from a
personal tragedy that has made a significant difference in America. Joining SALF’s story that appeared in ATF’s “Channeling Grief Into
Policy Change”, Injury Prevention Newsletter, Volume 13, were the Danny Foundation, Kids In Danger, Drowning Prevention Foundation,
Stop for Kids Safety, California for Safe Motorcycling, and Trunk Release Urgently Needed Coalition. This well presented newsletter has
reached over 50,000 medical and trauma professionals nationwide.

We’re Going Nationwide!


Regional Training

Illinois
St. John’s Hospital
Springfield, Illinois

Jan Kelley, RN
Facilitator

Pennsylvania

Safar Research Center


University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Tammy Janney, EMT


Facilitator

Moving Forward

The effective and cost efficient programs,


so popular and widely requested in Illinois,
are moving into other states.

M o v i n g Fo r w a r d
Budget 2001

Year 2001 Income and Expense

Statement of Financial Position – December 31, 2001

Current Assets ------------------------------------------------$ 1,233,154


Fixed Assets – Net -------------------------------------------$ 38,639
Total Assets----------------------------------------------------------------------$ 1,271,793

Current Liabilities-------------------------------------------$ 9,042


Long Term Liabilities---------------------------------------$ 68,755
Total Liabilities------------------------------------------------------------------$ 77,797
Unrestricted Net Assets-------------------------------------$ 112,566
Temporarily Restricted Net Assets------------------------$ 1,081,430
Total Net Assets-----------------------------------------------------------------$ 1,193,996

Total Liabilities and Net Assets----------------------------------------------------$ 1,271,793

Statement of Activities – Year Ended December 31, 2001

Income By Program: %

Illinois State Grant------------------------------------------$ 639,341 58%


National State Grant----------------------------------------$ 202,271 19%
Paid Training-------------------------------------------------$ 61,435 6%
Fund Development------------------------------------------$ 68,568 6%
General Administration-------------------------------------$ 122,656 11%

Total Income---------------------------------------------$ 1,094,271

Expenses By Program:

Illinois State Grant-------------------------------------------$ 645,364 68%


National Expansion Grant-----------------------------------$ 202,816 21%
Paid Training--------------------------------------------------$ 40,859 4%
Fund Development-------------------------------------------$ 23,617 3%
General Administration--------------------------------------$ 41,371 4%

Total Expense-------------------------------------------------$ 954,027


Operating Surplus (Deficit)---------------------------------$ 140,244

Fi n a n c i a l s 2001
Thank You To the Many Who Support us:

ILL Dept. of Public Health US Conference of Mayors


ILL Dept. of Child and Family Services
National League of Cities
Members of the ILL State House and Senate
CDC/Health and Human Services Illinois Municipal League
US Congressman Porter
National Conference of Black Mayors
US Congressman Kirk
US Congressman Henry Hyde
Chicago Board of Education
Abbott Research
Allstate Foundation Rosemont Exposition Services
Ronald McDonald SBC Communications
Royal American Bank Peter Rosenthal
Irwin Andrew Porter Foundation Ryan & Ryan
Saint Xavier University Gurtz Electric
Alexian Brothers Medical Center Parkway Bank and Trust
St Alexius Medical Center Michael Lavelle
Italian American War Veterans Rosemont Suites
Village of Rosemont Walgreens
Cremation Services, Inc. H&H Electric
Lions Club of Rosemont Degen & Rosato Construction Co.
Italian American War Veterans Air Quality Maintenance
Orange Crush Storino, Ramello &Durkin
Rosemont Chamber of Commerce Morgan Park H.S.PTA
Northwest Display Corp. Tom and Kathy Rivera
Competition Telecom, Inc William Nolan
Fraternal Order of Police Gregg Horan
Senator Walter Dudycz Illinois PTA District 25
Laura Crane R. Carrozza Plumbing Co., Inc
Kintetsu Intl. Travel Consultants The Daily Herald
Midwest Equipment Rentals
National Conference for Community and
Justice
Fireman’s Assn. Of Chicago
… and so many
Village of Broadview more!!
Vahey Construction Co., Inc
Italian-American Police Association

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DIVIDER
  


  


      

       

        

           

            

           

        

            



            

        

             

                   

                  

                

               

               

              

              

                 

               

 

              

 
 

  



 

             

           

               

          

           

       

           

           

            

         

               

        

            

         

          

             

            

 

          

             

            

          

          

     

              

              

            

  

 
  

   


  

   


   
     
   

        


      
 

     

         


     
 

         

       

      


  
  
       

       


  
 
   
        
  
     
       
     

  


    
       

   

              

    


  
  
    

     


 
     
    
 

     

  


    
    
     
      

    

    

       

  

    

      

 

    

          
 
  

     


   
   

    


    

     

    

        

  


   

 


   

        

        

          

          

        

          

            

           
      
         
                    

        

  

   

      

      

       

           

     

      

   

     

    

 

     

      



      

      

      

       

        

        

      

    

         

   


    

     

 


  

      

     

   

     

     

     

    

      

      

     

        

     

 

    

        

     

      

    

     

      

      

      

        

 

        

       


        

 




      

       

  

          

          

      

              

          

 
   

    

     

  

     

      



        

      

      

       

     

 

         

      

       

       

       

        

     

    

 


    


        

      


      
    
       
        
       
   
      

                  

                 

              

   


        
       
        
       
       
    
        

    


     

       

             

               

                

                

                   

           

     

      

              

            

       

                 

              

         

               

                 

             

             

               

           

          

      

            

             

            

           

          

              

             

          

    

             

          

          

           

       

   

 
   



        

         

       

          

        

       

        

     

     

       

         

        

       

   

     

    

    

    

   

 

  

    

  

   

   

    

      


 

 

   

    

   

   

    

    

   

   

    

 

  

  

      

  

      

    

  

 

  

  

    

  

  

  

 
 

 

                

             

                

             

              

                

             

             

            

             

      


      
       

  
     

    


      
      
      
        
        
        
     
   
   

     


        
      
         
        
       
   
      
      
    
       
     
     
     
     
       
      
     
      
    
       

       


        
      
     
        
    

         


      
        
      
    
    
        
     
      
    
        
    
     
      
      
    
       

     


  
    

       

    

         

     

         

    

 






  

  

 

     

     

  

    

 
   


     

     

     

     

 

     

 

     



 
  
   

 



    

 

  

        

 


  

    

  

 

  

  



      

          

       

      

     

      

       

       

      

       

        

        

        

         

     

        

      

       

        

       



       

        

       

       

     

       

          

 

 
 

   

    

     

      

          

           

    

 
 

 


      

      

    

 
  

   

 

  

 
  

 

 
  



   


 
    

      

    


  
 

      

  


     

 
  
   

     

  


  
 
    
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
     
 
   
   
  
 

 
   
  

 

    

  
 
 
   
  
  
  
 
  
   
 
   
   
  
 
   
 
  
  
   
   
  
 
 
 
 
 

      

      

 


 

               

      

           


 

      

       

         

       

         

          

        

            

     

         

     

           

         

         

         

         

      

     

           

         

         

         

         

      

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 
DIVIDER
SALF
Save A Life Foundation

Annual
Report
2003

Save A Life Foundation, Inc. 9950 W Lawrence Ave Ste 300, Schiller Park, Illinois 60176
SALF Annual Report 2003

Christina Jean Spizzirri


August 6, 1974 to September 7, 1992

Carol J. Spizzirri
Founder/President
Save A Life Foundation, Inc.

Save A Life Foundation is celebrating 10 years of spreading its life saving message to the
public after the tragic death of my daughter, Christina Jean Spizzirri, in September 1992. I
founded SALF to help prevent the same unnecessary deaths and severe injuries of others.

With the help of so many, we have brought these Life Supporting First Aid (LSFA) skills to
the masses. Through school age children (K-12) and adult programs this training has
increased the average person’s ability to survive personal or widespread emergencies.

In the coming years, we continue to expand our reach throughout the country and promote
our mission statement: “Save A Life Foundation works towards training and developing
people, especially children, as volunteers equipped with basic life supporting first aid
skills to aid in an emergency.”

Carol J. Spizzirri
Founder/President
In Memoriam

Dr. Safar was born in 1924 in Vienna, Austria. After brief


studies in pathology research, oncology and surgery at the
University of Vienna (1948-49) and Yale University (1949-
50), he received his anesthesiology training at the University of
Pennsylvania in 1950-52.

He initiated, developed and chaired academic anesthesiology


departments in three institutions: the National Cancer Institute
in Lima, Peru (1952-53), Baltimore City Hospital (BCH, now
Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center) (1955-61) and the
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) (1961-78).

Dr. Safar and associates developed the department at UPMC


into the largest academic anesthesiology department in the
United States, which from 1962 to 1999 gave critical care
medicine training to more than 500 physicians.
The department fathered 10 new programs in anesthesiology,
pain control, respiratory therapy, intensive (critical) care
Peter Safar, M.D., dies at 79 medicine, emergency medical services, resuscitation research
August 4, 2003 and disaster reanimatology.

Note: This article is courtesy of the University of Dr. Safar was clinically active as an anesthesiologist for 39
Pittsburgh Medical Center news bureau. years, until age 65. In 1979 at the age of 55, he stepped aside
as department chairman. That same year, Dr. Safar founded the
Web site: http://www.upmc.com
International Resuscitation Research Center (IRRC) at the
University Pittsburgh, which he directed until 1994. He
Other articles: CNN, American Medical Association mentored 60 physicians and 20 medical student research
(PDF: 63 KB) fellows at the IRRC.

PITTSBURGH, Aug. 4 – Peter Safar, M.D., Distinguished In 1994, at the age of 70, Dr. Safar turned the IRRC leadership
Professor of Resuscitation Medicine at the University of over to Patrick Kochanek, M.D., who renamed the IRRC, the
Pittsburgh School of Medicine, died last night. He was 79 Safar Center for Resuscitation Research (SCRR). Dr. Safar
years old. He is survived by his wife Eva, and two sons, Philip continued to lead research programs on cardiac arrest,
and Paul. A third child, Elizabeth, died in 1966. traumatology and suspended animation.

Known as the father of modern day cardiopulmonary In the 1950s, at Baltimore City Hospital, Dr. Safar
resuscitation (CPR), Dr. Safar's research efforts and documented, with experiments on human volunteers,
accomplishments in emergency medicine, critical care cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) step A (airway control
medicine, resuscitation research and disaster re-animatology by backward tilt of the head, jaw thrust and open mouth) and
have saved many lives and gained international recognition. step B (the superiority of mouth-to-mouth over manual
artificial ventilation). He combined steps A and B with step C
"Throughout his distinguished career, Peter Safar worked (closed-chest cardiac massage, rediscovered and documented
tirelessly and effectively to cheat death," said University of by others) into basic life support (BLS).
Pittsburgh Chancellor Mark Nordenberg. "He fundamentally
re-shaped approaches to medical treatment and helped save In 1961, Safar extended CPR into cardiopulmonary-cerebral
hundreds of thousands of lives. His own life was characterized resuscitation (CPCR), which he assembled as a sequence of
by intellectual power, uncompromising standards and personal nine steps of basic, advanced and prolonged life support (BLS-
grace. He was one of a kind and will be sorely missed by his ALS-PLS). He co-initiated modern life supporting first aid
friends and colleagues, here and around the world." (LSFA), resuscitation and intensive (critical) care medicine
(CCM).
"Peter Safar was an incredible man who not only saved a
countless number of lives through his work but influenced Read More about the amazing Dr. Peter Safar on
generations through his genius, elegance, humanism and our web site
remarkable purpose. I don't think a day went by that Peter
http://www.salf.org/news2/08_august_2003/august_4_2
didn't do something good for mankind," said Patrick
Kochanek, M.D., director of the Safar Center for Resuscitation 003.asp
Research at the University of Pittsburgh.
Training

Scores of Kids
Ready to
Save A Life
Thanks to our
Instructors

SALF’s Programs

Save A Save A Bystander Bystander


Life For Life For Basics Basics AED
Kids Kids

Grades K-2 3-6 7-Adults 10-Adults


Recognizing an X X X X
Emergency
Scene Safety X X X X
Contacting EMS X X X X
Bleed Control X X X X
Opening and airway X X X
Heimlich Maneuver
For infants, children X X X
And adults
Early Heart Attack X X X
Care
Rescue Breathing
For infants, children X X X
and adults
CPR
for infants, children X X
And adults
AED Training X
Time 30 Min 60 Min 2 Hours 4.5 Hours

….and of course to the many people, corporations and


organizations who have made this training possible!
Training

Children were able


to retain 97% of the
skills taught and
demonstrated a
57% increase in
their willingness to
help.

From the beginning, SALF recognized children had


the ability and eagerness to help save a life. To bring
this to public attention, we conducted a study
consisting of nearly 50,000 elementary and secondary
school children from various geographical regions.
Prior to presenting the training course, SALF
instructors presented them with a pre-test of 10
questions relative to Life Supporting First Aid skills
they may have already known. Immediately after
training, the children were given the same test;
followed by a re-test three months later. The outcome
revealed a 97% skills retention level and a 57%
increased willingness to help those in need, which, in
fact, has mirrored the increase in a number of lives
being saved by these same children.

To date, current tests handled by our Scantron data


collection system reflect these impressive results. Use
of this automatic test handling system ensures the
accuracy of scoring and provides the capability of real
time test result tracking from each SALF Branch
location.

At SALF we have seen the importance and


effectiveness of these classes and feel that all children
should receive training starting in the early grades,
with refresher and advanced classes as they progress
through the different levels of schooling.

A well-trained Bystander can make all the difference


in an emergency no matter how minor or how major in
the incident
Branches 2003

SALF National Headquarters Alexian Brothers Medical Center


and Chicago/North Suburbs Branch Hanover Park, Illinois

St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center


Milwaukee, Wisconsin
University of Pittsburgh
Safar Resuscitation Research Center
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

St. James Hospital


Pontiac, Illinois
St. John’s Hospital
Springfield, Illinois
Annual Report 2003

Pre-EMS White Paper

A survey was taken of mayors, fire chiefs and other senior emergency management directors,
from around the country, concerning their views of the state of EMS and emergency
preparedness today. Following are the questions and responses to that survey.

Percentage of 81 responses
80 A B C
70 1 87.65% 8.64% 2.47%
2 80.25% 18.52% 0.00%
60
Agree
3 93.83% 6.17% 0.00%
50
4 91.36% 13.58% 0.00%
Disagree
40
5 91.36% 12.35% 0.00%
No Response
30 6 90.12% 12.35% 1.23%
20 7 79.01% 12.35% 2.47%
10 8 91.36% 9.88% 0.00%
0
9 82.72% 11.11% 1.23%
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 10 91.36% 6.17% 0.00%
11 82.72% 11.11% 0.00%

1. Do you feel there is something lacking in the present day courses or programs addressing pre-EMS training?
2. Do you feel federal and state agencies are in your opinion best equipped to fund and implement a "citizen based" pre-
EMS department?
3. Do you feel your state representatives and senators should support legislation and initiatives that include pre-EMS
training?
4. Do you think pre-EMS trained citizens should coordinate with the CERT teams in municipalities across the U.S.?
5. Do you feel your role in the community is the best way to promote pre-EMS participation?
6. Do you feel it is the school's role in providing pre-EMS education to its students; faculty members and ALL school
related personnel?
7. Do you feel schools should be designated "gathering points" for supplies and medical aid during disasters?
8. Do you believe "Corporate America" has a responsibility to provide their employees with pre-EMS training?
9. Do you feel that basic "emergency preparedness" accountability standards should be set for all communities, with
defined roles for all members of a community?
10. Life supporting first aid (LSFA) has been a part of driver's education in Japan since 1995; do you feel it would be a
good fit in the driver's education programs here in the U.S.?
11. If (LSFA) was integrated into driver's education in the U.S., do you feel a "refresher" course should be incorporated
into each license renewal?
Events 2003

SALF Week 2003

In conjunction with National EMS Week, Governors,


and Mayors around the country, proclaimed May 18th
through the 24th , 2003 as Save A Life Week .

Race For Life carries SALF’s message through


racing events involving NASCAR and local
municipalities, and organizations in Illinois and
around the country.

Palatine, Illinois hosted this Race For Life with


Mayor Rita Mullins and US Army’s Racing Pro
Tony Schumacher. Events included displays of
antique, specialized and professional racing cars
with different contests including best of show.

Held in Palatine’s downtown parking garage, this


Left to Right:
event attracted enthusiasts from around the state. Dane Neal, SALF National Media Dir.
Rita Mullins, Mayor, Palatine, IL.
Tony Schumacher, US Army Racing
Carol J. Spizzirri, SALF President

Past and present partners and supporters in the “Race For Life”

* Budweiser * NEXTEL/NASCAR * GO ARMY Racing * Albrecht Enterprises.* NEXTEL Communications


* Courtyard by Marriott * OCTAGON Marketing * CLTV * Village Of Palatine * Racing Reflections
* Speed Street 600 Festival * Dave Pate and Son’s * Jade Gurss * Kraft Racing * Chicagoland Speedway
* Richard Petty Driving Experience * ESPN’s RPM Tonight * Sir Speedy Printing * Speed Channel
* Jay Howard Enterprises * North Carolina Citizens Corps * Corporate Treats * Wolf Camera
* Prairie Rock Brewery * Red Bull Cheever Racing * West Cook Municipal League * Chicago Cubs
* Quality Beers * Albert Fernando * City of Des Plaines * City of Concord
Events 2003
Mississippi Governor comes to Chicago
Mississippi Governor Ronnie Musgrove was in Chicago to receive an award from The Save A Life Foundation in
recognition of his commitment to education in his state, and to proclaim "Save A Life Week" in Mississippi May
18th - 24th.

Congressman Crane Voices Support


Congressman Phil Crane publicly announced his support for the Save A Life Foundation's (SALF) life–supporting first
aid (LSFA) training programs offered free to the public school children within his district on May 28, 2003 at
Riverwood Elementary School in McHenry, Illinois.

Illinois Congressman Mark Kirk Attends Gary M. Sanborn Elementary School Training
SALF trained 5th graders at Sanborn School in Palatine, Illinois. Present were IL Congressman Mark Kirk, Palatine
Mayor, Rita Mullins, and officials from surrounding communities.

SALF trains Miami 5th graders September 29th


SALF Senior Instructor George Gurrola trained Miami 5th graders at Miami’s Holmes Elementary School. Observing
were the mayors of Miami, North Miami and Miami-Dade County along with the City of Miami Fire Rescue, and
Miami-Dade Office of Emergency management. SALF’s program was well received by adults and children alike.

Carol J. Spizzirri honored at the Northwestern University/Wisconsin Badgers Game October 25


Carol J. Spizzirri, SALF’s founder, received the game ball at half time from Nextel’s Regional Vice President Mark
Flynn and Northwestern’s Athletic Director Mark Murphy in recognition of her life saving achievements.

Illinois House of Representatives recognizes Carol J. Spizzirri


Illinois Resolution HR305, sponsored by IL Representative Lou Lang, passed the IL House unanimously
recognizing Carol and SALF for accomplishments in the training of Illinois children to be ready to act in times of
an emergency.

“Tree of Life” Award presented


SALF’s Springfield, IL branch Facilitator, Michael Hamilton, presented Assistant Coach Jerry Hart and Auburn
Police officer Dwayne Hoagland with the “Tree of Life” award in recognition of saving the life of Jessica Ball, 22,
assistant to the girls basketball team.

IL Senate President Emil Jones honored by Dr. Henry Heimlich


President Emil Jones was honored for saving the life of Paula Nachtrieb. President Jones took action by performing
the Heimlich maneuver on Nachtrieb, saving her life.

Dipping for Dollars December 6th


Krispy Kreme Doughnuts in Hanover Park held their Dipping for Dollars in support of SALF. Customers could dip
their donuts in various toppings in trade for a donation to SALF.
Events 2003

Spizzirri, Brown Announce Affiliation Between SALF and FEMA


January 24, 2003

FEMA Deputy Director Mike Brown and SALF


President/Founder Carol J. Spizzirri signed a partnership
agreement on January 23rd, to work together as part of President
Bush’s Citizen Corps’ initiative, to raise public awareness and
emergency prepare communities, with an emphasis on training
and educating children and families in life supporting first aid
skills.

Mayors from across the country witnessed this historic event


unveiled, while congratulation letters poured in from US
Congressional leaders and world-renowned emergency medical
experts themselves Peter Safar, M.D. (Father of CPR) and Henry
Heimlich, M.D. (Father of the Heimlich Maneuver). “SALF has
established itself as the so far most effective organization in
reaching out to the masses with LSFA skill acquisition”, wrote
Safar. While Doctor Heimlich commended this merging of these
two agencies by writing “Your cooperative effort will be Mayors listened attentively as Under Secretary of Emergency
successful and save many lives because SALF has the experience Preparedness and Response in the Department of Homeland
of teaching lifesaving measures to masses of people - school Security and the National Chairman for the Citizen Corps’
children.” Councils, Mike Brown took the podium "Everyone can do
something to spread the word about emergency preparedness and
Citizen Corps’ Council members, Mayors Rita Mullins, Palatine, first aid, and the affiliation between Citizen Corps’ and the Save
IL and Arlene Mulder, Arlington Heights, IL opened the A Life Foundation will help bring that message to the American
conference with an introduction of "What Citizen Corps Means to people," Brown said. "I look forward to working with SALF and
The Mayor" and the importance of SALF’s mission, "training and to expanding Citizen Corps’ network of affiliate organizations
developing people as volunteers, equipped with life supporting and programs to make our nation safer and better prepared than
first aid skills to aid in an emergency", as mayors develop their ever before." Brown encouraged mayors to incorporate SALF’s
strategic plan to prepare their cities against man made, natural or energy into their policy platform, which could only prove to be a
personal disasters. successful means for re-election as well as saving the lives of
their citizens.
"What was once a Mom working from her kitchen table, has
sprung to national perspective and has become an instrumental The contract adds SALF as an affiliate to the four charter Citizen
part in securing all communities against life threatening Corps’ programs: Neighborhood Watch, Volunteers in Police
emergencies through this FEMA and Citizen Corps’ affiliation", Service, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), and
Mayor Mullins commented as she introduced Carol Spizzirri. Medical Reserve Corps. Additionally, SALF now joins the
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in their Citizen
Since September 11th, mayors have become aggressive with Corps’ affiliate program.
issues related to emergency training within their community. At
the October 2001 USCM’s "Emergency Summit", hundred of Issuing a call to service for all Americans to embrace a spirit of
mayors came together to share their concerns and establish "Best volunteerism, President Bush announced the creation of USA
Practices" as the new office of "Homeland Security" was being Freedom Corps in this State of the Union address last January.
discussed. Testifying at this Summit, Spizzirri drew attention to The President established Citizen Corps’, a component of USA
the Pre-EMS role of the citizen as the "Immediate Providers". "At Freedom Corps, to provide people the opportunity to volunteer in
a time of a catastrophic emergency, it’s the mayor who is on the a range of homeland security measures within their communities.
front line and they need to know that their citizens are secure
until advance care providers arrive". Spizzirri testified. Citizen Corps’ mission is to harness the power of individual
citizens through education, training, and volunteer opportunities
Spizzirri commended President Bush for his commitment to the to make communities safer, stronger, and better prepared for the
Emergency Medical Service (EMS) and the creation of Citizen threats of terrorism, crime, public health risks, and disasters of all
Corps’. "Mayors are not alone in their quest to emergency kinds. FEMA and SALF will now coordinate these volunteer
prepare their community," Spizzirri said. "Citizens, especially opportunities through Citizen Corps’ Councils.
children, will now have the ability to protect themselves, and or,
family members if they are faced with a life threatening Mayors and guests surrounded the dual signing and exchanging
emergency. of plaques. Brown and Spizzirri will meet again on February 4-
5th at FEMA Headquarters in DC to discuss future plans.
Articles 2003
S.A.L.F. Training Saves Child From Choking
March 05, 2003

On March 5, 2003 fifth grader, Zachary Moore and teacher Larry Johnson from DooLittle East Middle School
in Cook County became heroes after exercising their joint life saving first aid (LSFA) skills to save a child from
choking.

Shortly after Zachary and his classmates received the Save A Life Foundation’s (SALF) LSFA training, including
CPR & Heimlich Maneuver he was called into action. It was during lunch in the schools cafeteria when he noticed
a friend, Theoda Bynum choking, unable to speak. Remembering to stay calm and seek immediate help when faced
with an emergency, Zachary got his teacher, Larry Johnson.

Johnson, who was also present during the training instantly rushed over, positioned himself behind the little boy,
wrapped his arms around he waist and began the Heimlich maneuver. After a few abdominal thrusts the object
blocking Theoda’s airway was dislodged and he was able to breath again.

The SALF will honor Mr. Johnson and fifth grader Zachary Moore for their heroic acts by presenting them with
The life-saving “Tree of Life Award”. Johnson who is greatful for the award said, “It is really ironic this incident occurred
ten minutes after the children and I received the SALF training”.

Chicago Firefighter and Save A Life Foundation’s (SALF) instructor, Marty Chapman communicated with the
children, important initial steps to take when responding to an emergency such as: recognizing an emergency, staying calm, scene
safety, calling for help and how to perform basic CPR & Heimlich Maneuver techniques.

Anesthesia and Disaster Medicine: Part II


Framework for Mass Casualty Management and the Role of the Anesthesiologist
By Ernesto A. Pretto, MD, MPH
(Excerpt from above, for full article go to http://www.salf.org/news2/05_may_2003/may_06_2003.asp)

Citizen Rescuers

In our nation, today, the average citizen has little knowledge of what to do or how to provide help to others in a
disaster. In order to ensure proper and safe citizen response, public education programs and training must be
developed and implemented by federal, state and local authorities. This should be done in conjunction with private
and public educational organizations, who are experts in teaching bystander first response. The new Department of
Homeland Security must undertake the task of preparing and training the public, not only about how to defend or
protect against a terrorist attack with duct tape and plastic sheeting, but also on teaching the public how to become
an effective member of an organized citizen emergency response effort.

A simple but effective way of accomplishing this task would be to provide all citizens of the United States, ages 9-
92, the option of receiving (free of charge) a 2-hour life supporting first aid (LSFA) training course SALF – Save A
Life Foundation. These courses are currently administered in elementary, middle and high school, in selected
communities. They could be offered to all students, and to citizens seeking motor vehicle licensing. Citizens should
also be encouraged to maintain first aid kits in their homes and cars. Only through full community involvement can
maximum lifesaving potential in disasters be achieved.

Moreover, each neighborhood or community should have Citizen Emergency Response LAFD-Community
Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training, in the same way that ‘neighborhood watch teams’ are established to
combat crime.I stress the need for an organized and trained public as an essential element of disaster medical
services because it is clear that no EMS system can rely solely on professional responders and expect to save many
lives in large-scale disasters. If properly trained and organized, citizen rescuers can make a difference in times of
crisis. Disaster medical response planners should plan for and include this resource as an essential element of
disaster response. The training standards and programs needed to fulfill the goals described herein should be agreed
upon in advance and taught to all citizens.
Articles 2003
S.A.L.F. Training Saves Child From Choking
March 05, 2003

On March 5, 2003 fifth grader, Zachary Moore and teacher Larry Johnson from DooLittle East Middle School
in Cook County became heroes after exercising their joint life saving first aid (LSFA) skills to save a child from
choking.

Shortly after Zachary and his classmates received the Save A Life Foundation’s (SALF) LSFA training, including
CPR & Heimlich Maneuver he was called into action. It was during lunch in the schools cafeteria when he noticed
a friend, Theoda Bynum choking, unable to speak. Remembering to stay calm and seek immediate help when faced
with an emergency, Zachary got his teacher, Larry Johnson.

Johnson, who was also present during the training instantly rushed over, positioned himself behind the little boy,
wrapped his arms around he waist and began the Heimlich maneuver. After a few abdominal thrusts the object
blocking Theoda’s airway was dislodged and he was able to breath again.

The SALF will honor Mr. Johnson and fifth grader Zachary Moore for their heroic acts by presenting them with
The life-saving “Tree of Life Award”. Johnson who is greatful for the award said, “It is really ironic this incident
Occurred ten minutes after the children and I received the SALF training”.

Chicago Firefighter and Save A Life Foundation’s (SALF) instructor, Marty Chapman communicated with the
children, important initial steps to take when responding to an emergency such as: recognizing an emergency,
staying calm, scene safety, calling for help and how to perform basic CPR & Heimlich Maneuver techniques.

Anesthesia and Disaster Medicine: Part II


Framework for Mass Casualty Management and the Role of the Anesthesiologist
By Ernesto A. Pretto, MD, MPH
(Excerpt from above, for full article go to http://www.salf.org/news2/05_may_2003/may_06_2003.asp)

Citizen Rescuers

In our nation, today, the average citizen has little knowledge of what to do or how to provide help to others in a
disaster. In order to ensure proper and safe citizen response, public education programs and training must be
developed and implemented by federal, state and local authorities. This should be done in conjunction with private
and public educational organizations, who are experts in teaching bystander first response. The new Department of
Homeland Security must undertake the task of preparing and training the public, not only about how to defend or
protect against a terrorist attack with duct tape and plastic sheeting, but also on teaching the public how to become
an effective member of an organized citizen emergency response effort.

A simple but effective way of accomplishing this task would be to provide all citizens of the United States, ages 9-
92, the option of receiving (free of charge) a 2-hour life supporting first aid (LSFA) training course SALF – Save A
Life Foundation. These courses are currently administered in elementary, middle and high school, in selected
communities. They could be offered to all students, and to citizens seeking motor vehicle licensing. Citizens should
also be encouraged to maintain first aid kits in their homes and cars. Only through full community involvement can
maximum lifesaving potential in disasters be achieved.

Moreover, each neighborhood or community should have Citizen Emergency Response LAFD-Community
Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training, in the same way that ‘neighborhood watch teams’ are established to
combat crime.I stress the need for an organized and trained public as an essential element of disaster medical
services because it is clear that no EMS system can rely solely on professional responders and expect to save many
lives in large-scale disasters. If properly trained and organized, citizen rescuers can make a difference in times of
crisis. Disaster medical response planners should plan for and include this resource as an essential element of
disaster response. The training standards and programs needed to fulfill the goals described herein should be agreed
upon in advance and taught to all citizens.
Articles 2003

Mayor Richard M. Daley commemorates two EMS


technicians for saving lives
April 9, 2003
April 9, 2003: Mayor Richard M. Daley along with the City Council commemorated two Chicago Emergency Medical
Technicians (EMS) for their heroic efforts in saving the lives of a newborn baby and a gunshot wound victim.

January 5, 2003: Save A Life Foundation (SALF) Instructor and Ambulance Commander, Clinton Elmore along with his
paramedic partner were dispatched to aid a three–week–old baby that was having difficulty breathing. A half a block from
reaching their designated location, a driver of a car swerved in front of the ambulance truck, jumped out and started yelling
"My friend is shot."

After immediately calling for back up, Commander Elmore began to administer critical life supporting first aid to the gunshot
victim while his partner rushed to administer first aid to the baby who was only a few feet away.

When the second ambulance arrived both victims were then taken to the hospital, treated and later released.

"This event is a prime example of the heroism performed daily by the Chicago Fire Department," says Daley in the
Resolution given April 9, 2003.

The heroic efforts of SALF Instructor and Ambulance Commander, Clinton Elmore and partner is recognized by the Save A
Life Foundation (SALF) as they celebrate their 2003 "Save A Life" week to encourage all citizens, including children be
trained in Life Supporting First Aid skills in attempt to help aid the injured prior to EMS arrival.

"Training Children For Emergencies" Airs on ABC 7 News


May 20, 2003

The Save A Life Foundation's (SALF) life-supporting first aid training program, offered free to all Illinois public
schoolchildren (K-12) was recognized by ABC 7 News Thursday, May 8th, 2003 at Shepard High school in Palos Heights.

The new feature segment on ABC 7 News "All About Kids" with Judy Hsu explored the charitable trust of the SALF's life–
saving mission which is to prepare, equip and train all bystanders; especially children on how to act effectively during the
times of emergencies.

SALF Instructor and Chicago Firefighter Boyce Coleman presented the freshman class of Shepard High School with real life
emergency scenarios as well as train them on how to respond to each. From CPR & Heimlich maneuver to bleed control and
burn care each student had the opportunity to exercise their learned skills through hands on demonstrations using
mannequins.

Utilizing local EMS providers as Instructors, SALF has trained over 700,000 Illinois schoolchildren "at no cost" and adults in
skills that will not only improve emergency response efforts but also increase the endurance of life for all citizens.

The Save A Life Foundation, member of U.S. Homeland Security and affiliate of FEMA's Citizen Corps is celebrating its
10th Anniversary along with its 2003 "Save A Life" Week on May 18–23, and will participate with the Chicago Fire Dept's,
"Safety for Life Fair" on May 22 at Cellular One, White Sox Park.

"Save A Life" Week has received special recognition by the 93rd Illinois General Assembly who has passed House
Resolution 305 commemorating the many life–saving achievements that SALF and founder/president, Carol Spizzirri has
dispatched into the communities. Also Twenty one states along with over two hundred municipalities have proclaimed this
week as an official obligation for all US citizens to become emergency prepared.
Articles 2003

Congressman Crane Attends CPR & First Aid Training


May 22, 2003

Congressman Phil Crane will publicly announce his support for the Save A Life Foundation's (SALF) life–supporting first
aid (LSFA) training programs offered free to the public school children within his district on May 28, 2003 at Riverwood
Elementary School in McHenry, Illinois.

The Congressman along with SALF's President & Founder, Carol Spizzirri, Riverwood Principal, Dr. Susan DeRoche and
many state representatives of McHenry County will be in attendance to view the training along with acknowledge the need
for citizens; especially children to be emergency prepared.

The Save A Life Foundation, member of U.S. Homeland Security and affiliate of FEMA’s Citizen Corps mission is to
equip, train and prepare all bystanders on how to act effectively during the times of emergencies.

"Because the U.S. has only one firefighter for every 280 people and one police officer for every 385 people, it essential
that all citizens have the confidence and capability to act. Relying solely on first responders to relieve life-threatening
situations will instantly decrease the chances of survival and encourage bereavement."

"Having the support of Congressman Crane, a respectable leader whose judgment is valued and trusted among many, will
definitely increase the awareness of our life-saving efforts, Spizzirri said."

Utilizing local EMS providers as Instructors, SALF has trained over 700,000 Illinois school children "at no cost" and
adults in skills that will not only improve emergency response efforts but also increase the endurance of life for all
citizens.

U.S. Fire Administrator Visits Chicago


to Address Homeland Security
June 12, 2003

The U.S. Fire Administrator, R. Dave Paulison who was appointed by President Bush in December 2001, to direct
and oversee all federal, state and local emergency preparedness and response programs will be a featured speaker at
the 2003 SALF "Bridge the Gap" Summit being held on September 16th & 17th at the Hilton Chicago.

Paulison, also past president of the International Association of Fire Chiefs served thirty years in fire rescue and was
chief of the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department, overseeing 1,900 personnel as well as the county’s emergency
management office. His emergency management experience included Hurricane Andrew, the most destructive United
States hurricane of record causing 23 deaths and $26.5 billion cost of damage along with the crash of ValuJet Flight
592.

The 2003 "Bridge the Gap" Summit hosted by Save A Life Foundation (SALF), member of U.S. Homeland Security
and affiliate of FEMA’s Citizen Corps will assemble the nations top emergency, medical, public safety, school,
transportation and corporate officials to address community leaders nationwide on how to develop the most effective
and efficient emergency response plan that will bridge the gap between the onsite of a disaster scene to the time EMS
arrives.

Since the early 1990's the SALF has been active in altering the way bystanders view and approach an emergency
scene. Utilizing local EMS providers as Instructors, SALF has trained over 700,000 Illinois school children at no cost
and adults in skills that will not only improve emergency response efforts but also increase the chances of survival for
all citizens.

Being recognized by distinguished medical professionals "as the far most effective organization in reaching out to the
masses with life saving first aid (LSFA) skills acquisition"; SALF's programs continue to be in high demand
throughout the nation.
“Bridge the Gap” Summit 2003

Chicago Hilton
September 16-17, 2003

Senator Walter Dudycz,


MC

Carol Spizzirri, SALF


President/Founder, opened the Summit,
welcoming mayors, doctors, school
officials and attendees from across the

Mayor Irv Bock


Hanover Park, Illinois
“Bridge the Gap” Summit 2003

Special Award Presentation


Tree of Life Award Bridge of Life Award

Scott Mox, M.D. Henry Heimlich, MD,


for years of dedication to
for saving the life of a local saving lives through research
iti
Bridge of Life Award

Ernesto Pretto, MD, accepting for Peter

Bank One’s “Hometown Heroes” Award

(In order left to right) Andrew Alexander, Assistant Banking Center Manager,
Alan Thivousak, VP, Banking Center Manager., Sid Blustain, EMTP, Chicago
Fire Department, Michael Moylan, Assistant District Manager, Dina Spentzos,
Assistant Banking Center Manager, Eric Edwards, 1st Vice President
“Bridge the Gap” Summit 2003

10th Year Anniversary Award

IL Cong.Mark Kirk US Sen. Richard Durbin IL Cong. Phillip Crane Jim Edgar Illinois
Lenore McDonald accepting Clarisol Duque accepting Dennis O’Sullivan Accepting Governor 91-98

IL Senator Steve Rauschenberger


Assistant Minority Leader

IL State Representative Lou Lang


Assistant Majority Leader, Illinois

IL State Senator M. Maggie Crotty


19th District, Illinois

IL State Senator Adeline J. Geo-Karis


31st District, Illinois

IL State Senator James “Pate” Phillips


Former Senate President, Illinois

IL State Representative Raymond Poe


99th District, Illinois

Paul G. Vallas, CEO


Philadelphia City School District
“Bridge the Gap” Summit 2003

Hon. Chuck Hartke Director


IL Department of Agriculture
Bridge of Life Award

Gery Chico, Esq.


Former President
Chicago Board of Education
Bridge of Life Award

Walter Dudycz
Former IL State Senator
Bridge of Life Award

Sponsor Awards
Centers for Disease Control
Sherlita Amler M.D. M.S. & Phil Talboy
Sponsor Award

Comcast Communications
Dan Capasso, Manager of Local Programming
Sponsor Award

Bank One
Alan Thavisouk, Vice President
Sponsor Award

ComEd
John Donleavy
Sponsor Award

Blue Cross\Blue Shield


Patrick Dorsey, Director Corporate Security and Safety
Sponsor Award
“Bridge the Gap” Summit 2003

Guest Speakers

Janet Huckabee John E Jones


Arkansas’ First Lady Deputy Director
National Weather Service

Liz DiGregorio
FEMA Liaison to the White House Henry Heimlich, MD
For Citizen Corps President
Federal Emergency Management Agency
Heimlich Institute

Arne Duncan James Opoka


Chief Executive Officer Senior Specialist
Chicago Public Schools FEMA Region V

Gery Chico, Esq. William Modzeleski


Former President Associate Deputy Undersecretary
Chicago Board of Education US Dept. of Education
“Bridge the Gap” Summit 2003

Police/Fire/EMS Panel

(In order from left to right):


Senator Walter Dudycz, MC
Bill Jaconetti, Officer, (Chicago Police Dept)
Michael Hansen, Chief (Lincolnwood Fire Dept)
Jay Reardon,Chief (IL Terrorism Task Force)
Larry Matkaitis, (IL Fire Chiefs Assoc.)
Gary Schenkel (Chicago Police Dept.)
Paula Willoughby, D.O., (Chicago Police Dept)
EMS Medical Advisor

Corporate Emergency Response


Partners Panel

(In order from left to right):


Martin Heffron, (Nextel)
Government Account Specialist
John Donleavy, (ComEd)
Richard Johns (Motorola)
Director Risk Management
Jack Stoller (Bank One)
First VP, Info. Security Director
Patrick Dorsey (IL Blue Cross\Blue Shield)
Director Corporate Security And Safety
“Bridge the Gap” Summit 2003

Mayors Panel

(In order from left to right):


Irv Bock, (Mayor, Hanover Park, IL)
Ralph Conner (Mayor, Maywood, IL)
Patrick Hays (Mayor, North Little Rock,
Ark)
Rita Mullins (Mayor, Palatine, IL)
Doug Scott (Mayor, Rockford, IL)

Medical Panel

(In order from left to right):


Sherlita Amler, MD (Centers for Disease Control )
Division of Injury and Disability Outcomes
Henry Heimlich, MD (Heimlich Institute)
President
Steven Orebaugh, MD (Univ. of Pittsburgh Med.Ctr.)
Assistant Professor
Mark Friedman, MD (ACOEMP)
FACEP, FACP
Mark Dworken, MD (IDPH)
State Epidemiologist
“Bridge the Gap” Summit 2003

Education Panel

(In order left to right):


Sunny Chico, Frmr US Department of Education (President, SPC Consulting)
Andres Durbak, Director, Bureau of Safety and Security (Chicago Public Schools)
Richard Stipher, Assistant Superintendent (DeKalb County, IL Reg. Ed.)
Gery Chico, Esq. (Fmr President Chicago Board of Ed.)
(Upper right)
Arne Duncan, CEO (Chicago Public Schools)

Life Supporting First Aid Panel

(In order from left to right):


Sid Blustain EMTP (Chicago IL Fire Dept.)
Martinez Chapman, Firefighter (Chicago IL Fire Dept.)
Mike Hamilton, EMTP (America Ambulance Service)
Scott Vaughn, EMTP (Lincolnshire, IL Fire Dept.)
“Bridge the Gap” Summit 2003

Awards & Presentations

Automated External Federal Emergency Management Agency, Reg. V


Defibrillator presented Arne James Opoka, Senior Specialist
Duncan, CEO for the Chicago
Public Schools

Steven Orebaugh, MD,


University of Pittsburgh
Medical Center, SALF
Pennsylvania State Chairman

Gloria Singleton-Young, RN, SALF Mike Hamilton, EMTP,


Facilitator St. Joseph Hospital, SALF Illinois State
Milwaukee, WI Coordinator
“Bridge the Gap” Summit 2003

Daily Herald News


(readership of 225,000 daily)

August 7, 24 & 31, 2003 September 14,2003

Between printed mailings, newspaper ads,


mass e-mails, faxing and our SALF Web

Some of Our
A1 Communications ComEd *
Adolph Kiefer & Associates Daily Herald
AFFI- Assoc. Firefighters of Illinois Digital Bridge
Alexian Brothers Hilton Chicago
Altria Krispy Kreme
Bank One * McDonald’s
BFI-Browning Ferris Industries Motorola
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois Nextel
Cambridge Homes Rider Dickerson
CDC-Centers for Disease Control Storino Ramello & Durkin
Comcast TCF Bank

* Major Sponsors
Sponsors

Sponsors and Contributors for 2003


Abbott Laboratories Fund Hilton Hotels World Headquarters
Adolph Kiefer and Assoc. Household - HELP Charity Committee
Ahlbeck & Company IL State Rep., Lee Daniels
Albert Fernando Contemporary Marketing Rep. Italian American War Veterans #5
Albrecht Enterprises Jade Gurss
Alexian Brothers Health System, Inc. Jay Howard Enterprises
Altria Corporate Services, Inc. John Spot/Tim Lintner
American College of Osteopathic Emergency Physicians Kraft Racing
Krispy Kreme Doughnuts
Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois Krispy Kreme Sweet Traditions
Bank One - Chicago, IL Legends in Stone
Bank One - Columbus, Ohio Long Grove Confectionery
Baxter International, Inc. Lowe's Motor Speedway
Blue Cross Blue Shield McDonald's Corporation
Briskman & Briskman Motorola
Browning Ferris Industries Nancy Mynard
Budweiser NEXTEL Communications
Cambridge Homes NEXTEL/NASCAR
Charlotte-Mecklenberg Police North Carolina CERT
Chicago Cubs North Carolina Citizens Corps.
Chicago Wolves Pro Hockey North Carolina Governor's Office
Chicagoland Speedway North Studio's
Cisco Systems John O. Brill
City of Concord OCTAGON Marketing
City of Des Plaines PACTIV Corporation
Clear Channel Parkway Bank
CLTV Prairie Rock Brewing Company
Comcast Cable Communications, Inc. Pro Star
Commonwealth Edison Co. Quality Beers
Corporate Treats Racing Reflections
Courtyard by Marriott Red Bull Cheever Racing
Currie Motors Richard Petty Driving Experience
Daily Herald Storino, Ramello & Durkin
Dave Pate and Son's TCF Bank
Elkay Alan and Sourixat Thavisouk
ESPN's RPM Tonight United Airlines Foundation
Floran Technologies Village of Palatine
GO ARMY Racing West Cook Municipal League
Westpoint Stevens
William A. McGinty Company
Wine & Spirit Distributors of Illinois
Winning System
Wolf Camera
Financial 2003

2002 2003
Statement of Financial Position – Dec. 31, 2002 Statement of Financial Position – Dec. 31, 2003

Current Assets $ 908,135 Current Assets $ 188,812


Fixed Assets – Net $ 64,283 Fixed Assets – Net $ 271,497
______________________ ______________________

Total Assets $ 972,418 Total Assets $ 460,309

Current Liabilities $ 26,510 Current Liabilities $ 30,220


Long Term Liabilities $ 72,617 Long Term Liabilities $ 306,994
Total Liabilities $ 99,127 Total Liabilities $ 337,214
Unrestricted Net Assets $ 227,529 Unrestricted Net Assets $ 23,095
Temporarily Restricted Net Assets $ 645,762 Temporarily Restricted Net Assets $ 100,000
Total Net Assets $ 873,291 Total Net Assets $ 123,095

Total Liabilities and Net Assets $ 972,418 Total Liabilities and Net Assets $ 460,309

Statement of Activities - Unrestricted Statement of Activities - Unrestricted


Year Ended Dec. 31, 2002 Year Ended Dec. 31, 2003

Income by Program: Income by Program:

Illinois State Grant 41% $ 710,438 Illinois State Grant 37% $ 430,281
National Expansion 34% $ 582,049 National Expansion 12% $ 132,968
Paid Training 2% $ 31,693 Paid Training 3% $ 31,081
Fund Development 15% $ 249,540 Fund Development 40% $ 459,833
General Administration 8% $ 146,557 General Administration 8% $ 96,859
Total Income $ 1,720,277 Total Income $1,151,022

Expenses by Program: Expenses by Program:


Illinois State Grant 44% $ 704,657 Illinois State Grant 53% $ 720,642
National Expansion 37% $ 586,255 National Expansion 10% $ 127,055
Paid Training 1% $ 11,382 Paid Training 1% $ 13,336
Fund Development 10% $ 169,343 Fund Development 24% $ 329,196
General Administration 8% $ 133,677 General Administration 12% $ 165,227

Total Expense $1,605,314 Total Expense $1,355,456

Operating Surplus (Deficit) $ 114,963 Operating Surplus (Deficit) $ <204,434>


.
Save A Life Foundation, Inc.
9950 W Lawrence Ave Ste 300
Schiller Park, Illinois 60176
847-928-9683 Fax 847-928-9684
www.salf.org salf@salf.org

Copyright 2003 All Rights reserved


DIVIDER
Page 1

2004 Annual Report

Trained Hands Save Lives

www.salf.org
Page 2

2004
Annual Report
Mission
Training and developing "Bystanders", including
children, as volunteers equipped with Life-
Supporting First Aid Skills (LSFA) to aid in an
emergency.
In response to the tragic events of
September 11, 2001 our government created Community Outreach
the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, a Using a unique community emergency medical
unified core for the vast national network of service infrastructure SALF trains emergency
organizations and institutions involved in professionals how to prepare schoolchildren and
efforts to secure our nation; and develop a citizens for life-threatening emergencies using
basic life supporting first aid skills, including
culture that promotes a common identity,
CPR and Heimlich maneuver.
innovation, mutual respect, accountability, and
teamwork to achieve efficiencies, effectiveness,
and operational synergies during emergencies.
Enhancing Partnerships
SALF embraces and continually explores ways to
incorporate their life saving message with
Being the second affiliate of this newfound organizations and businesses nationwide.
security department SALF– took immediate
action to strengthen their current resources and Public Accountability
help communities develop an emergency action SALF’s overall objective is to enrich the public’s
plan. A plan that would ensure effective confidence, desire and responsibility to come to
response, relieve unnecessary deaths, and the aid of others in traumatic situations before
reduce the emotional and economic upsets medical help arrives.
caused by a life-threatening catastrophe.
Respect
Today, SALF continues to work diligently with SALF values an atmosphere of trust and fairness
high-level community minded dignitaries to and holds the highest regard for the worth and
offer basic life-supporting first aid training, rights of others.
including CPR and Heimlich maneuver to all
citizens, starting with schoolchildren. Financial Strength
SALF practices prudent business planning and
SALF believes that by having an integrated cost management strategies to ensure financial
EMS system of trained citizens, first responders, viability and responsible growth. Each SALF
paramedics and hospitals, our nation will branch office that requests initial fiscal support to
strengthen and triumph over any tragic event. launch operations is required to balance funds
through cost trainings, fundraising and private
gift giving.
Page 3

IML Links with SALF United Kingdom Honors Spizzirri’s


Achievements
With nearly 2,000 members, the Illinois
Municipal League created an SALF portal on Contingency Planning Manager of West
their website that allows Mayors and Village Midlands Region County Air Ambulance
Presidents to correspond with SALF and (UK), David S. Jones honored SALF
share their “best practices” in emergency President and Founder, Carol Spizzirri
preparedness and response. with an award that recognizes her tireless
efforts in working with local EMS forces
to empower community members, especially school-
Senate President becomes children with emergency response skills to assist
Spokesman during traumatic situations. The award was a shield,
revealing the Air Crew’s coat of arms, making
Illinois Senate President, Emil Jones, a mem- Spizzirri an honorary Aircrew Member of the West
Midlands Region County Air Ambulance (CAA) Op-
ber of the Illinois General Assembly for
erations Division.
more than 30 years signed on to be SALF’s
Illinois State Public Spokesman.
CAA is funded entirely through charitable support
and its EMS providers are strictly volunteers. CAA
President Jones, who has saved three lives won the UK national award for having the best Com-
using the Heimlich maneuver is known for munity Responder scheme in the country.
his strength in leadership and for supporting
issues that favor education, health and safety. The Future of Life . . .
NASCAR Driver Races to
Support PSA Campaign
Travis Geisler, #36, a rising star in NAS-
CAR’s Busch Series, joined Save A Life
Foundation (SALF) along with members of Rests in the
the U.S. Conference of Mayors to record a
series of SALF Public Service Announce- Hands of
ments (PSA). Comcast Communications
sponsored the SALF PSA campaign to in- our Kids.
crease Pre-EMS (before Emergency Medical
Service) awareness and to support SALF’s
basic life-supporting first aid training offered
free to schoolchildren.
Page 4

Illinois Expansion Operations Expand to Central


Pennsylvania
Illinois Congressman, John Shimkus and Ed-
wardsville Mayor, Gary Niebur, SALF awarded the
former President of the Illinois American Trauma Soci-
Municipal League joined SALF’s ety’s Pennsylvania Di-
President and Founder, Carol vision (ATSPA), Me-
Spizzirri in presenting a mini- chanicsburg, PA with a
grant award in the amount of $25,000 grant to initiate
$25,000 to Anderson Hospital, an SALF Regional facil-
Maryville, Illinois to launch an ity that services Central
SALF branch office. Pennsylvania. In appreciation, the Pennsyl-
vania Office of Emergency Medical Service
and the National America Trauma Society
Mayors In Front of the Race matched the funds received.
Mayors are the
This undertaking marked the first step
Principle Executive
towards fulfilling the late Dr. Peter
Officers (PEO) within
Safar’s (father of CPR) dream of hous-
his/her community.
ing an SALF branch in his home state
They have the duty to
and training the citizens, especially the
declare state of
schoolchildren of PA in basic life-
emergency at a time
supporting first aid.
of disaster and they
have the power to
lead citizens to safety Illinois Bi-Partisan Support
when they are in harm. For Financial Strength
SALF’s strongest advocates are Mayors. They Despite the grueling shortfall of the 2003 state
are the key masters who have the ability to budget, Illinois State Senate President, Emil
unlock every door within his/hers city; and they Jones, Senate Appropriations Chairman, Sena-
are the dominant force behind tor Donne Trotter, Assistant Minority
making a life-saving difference Leader Steve Rauschenberg, Assis-
tant Majority Leader Jimmy DeLeo,
Majority Caucus Chair Senator,
Wisconsin Branch Debbie Halverson, Leader Frank
Receives Grant Watson, Majority Leader Barbara
Flynn Currie, Deputy Majority
After receiving high Leader Ralph Capparelli, Assistant
reviews for efforts and Majority Leader, Lou Lang, Minor-
accomplishments in preparing ity Leader, Tom Cross and House
citizens, especially schoolchildren for emergen- Rules Committee, Gary Hannig lead the way
cies, SALF’s Milwaukee, Wisconsin Branch, for a cascade of bi-partisan support from state
facilitated out of St. Joseph’s Regional Medical legislators who unanimously passed appropria-
Center received a mini-grant award in the tions for the 2004 Illinois state budget, allow-
amount of $75,000. ing the continuation and expansion of SALF
state operations.
Page 5

Blue Cross Insures and McDonald Children - Our ultimate focus and most
Serves Kids Safety Program precious and valuable resource to our fu-
ture’s success
Ronald McDonald House Chari- are our
ties both Global and Chicago
children.
land and Northwest Indiana
Chapter along with Blue Cross
Blue Shield of Illinois together SALF Training
co-sponsored SALF’s free basic
Saves Choking
life-supporting first aid training,
including CPR and Heimlich ma- Child
neuver to more than 8,500
SALF honored
schoolchildren
Chicago, Illinois
throughout
school teacher Mr.
Chicago.
Johnson and fifth
grader Zachary
The children
Moore for their heroic acts in saving a
that received
young girl from choking.
the free CPR
and First Aid
Ten minutes after receiving SALF’s
training also
basic life-
received a
supporting
personal visit
first aid train-
from
ing, Moore
McDonald’s
and his teacher
infamous red-haired and paper white
Mr. Johnson
complexion clown, Ronald McDon-
saved a young
ald.
girl, Theoda
Bynum, from
Teen Saves Dad’s Life choking to
death.
SALF awarded 14-year-old Chicago
Public School student, Bill Glessener SALF trains
with their Tree of Life Award after he on an average,
saved his dad’s life by performing yearly, over
CPR. 150,000 children, grades K-12 in skills that will enable
them to respond during an emergency. Since 1995,
8th grader, Bill Glessener, who received over one million schoolchildren throughout Illinois,
SALF’s life-supporting first aid training, Wisconsin, Florida, and Pennsylvania has received
immediately dialed 9-1-1 and administered basic life-supporting first aid (LSFA) training, includ-
CPR when he witnessed his father collapsed ing CPR and Heimlich maneuver and each has become
of a heart attack. aware of his/her role in assisting during life-
threatening emergencies before medical professionals
Medical professionals stated that if Glesse- arrive.
ner did not perform CPR his father would
have died.
Page 6

Because more than 5,000 children die and “By teaching every child in America basic
90,000 are permanently disabled each year life-supporting first aid skills, we can save
by preventable injuries, including burns,
lives” — Vice Admiral Richard H. Car-
choking, falls, drowning and accidents and
because children face an equal amount of mona, U.S. Surgeon General
risks as adults during traumatic
Former Philadel-
situations, it is crucial for SALF
phia Mayor and
to prepare them how to react and
current Pennsyl-
respond.
vania Governor
Ed Rendell —
Due to the demand for SALF’s
spearheading a
life supporting first aid training
home for SALF
programs are greater than the re-
within Central
sources available it is essential for
Pennsylvania’s
businesses to lend a hand and rec-
American Trauma
ognize the need for kids and
Association.
adults to be emer-
gency ready.
Mayor Irv Bock of
Hanover Park, Illi-
World-renowned
nois and Mayor Rita Mullins of
corporations, i.e.
Palatine, Illinois — both being in-
Ronald McDonald
strumental in launching an SALF
House Charities,
branch inside Alexian Brother’s
Blue Cross Blue
Medical Center, Hanover Park, Illi-
Shield of Illinois,
nois.
Chicago Board of
Education, Co-
Mayor
mEd, Altria, Kim-
Gary
ball Hill Homes,
Niebur of
Comcast Communications, Krispy
Edwards-
Kreme and The Daily Herald, have been
ville, Illi-
at the forefront of SALF’s life-saving
nois —
crusade. It is time to applaud their sup-
helping
port and ask that others follow their lead
launch an
and join their efforts.
SALF
branch
Honors Go To inside
Anderson
Hospital,
Mayor Manny Diaz of Miami, Flor- Maryville, Illinois, saturating three municipalities east
ida — incorporating SALF LSFA training of the Mississippi River and crossing into St. Louis.
course into his “Mentoring Program”.
Page 7

SALF’s 2004 “RACE FOR LIFE” in Palatine,


Illinois Senate President Illinois was hosted by Palatine, Illinois Mayor Rita
Awarded By Heimlich Mullins.

The event included a Celebrity Charity Car Show


SALF along with the National Safety Council,
with special guest appearances by NHRA’s Top Fuel
American Red Cross and American Heart
superstar Tony “The Sarge” Schumacher-US Army
Association presented an award to Illinois State
Racing, and Red Bull Cheever Pacing to
Senate President, Emil Jones for
help raise funds for SALF’s free basic
his heroic acts in saving a man
life-supporting first aid training offered to
from choking using the Heim-
schoolchildren.
lich maneuver.
SALF’s 2004 “RACE FOR LIFE” in
Special Guest and SALF’s
Joliet, Illinois was hosted by the Joliet
Medical Advisory Board
City Center, and sponsored by Nextel
member, Dr. Henry Heimlich
Communications, Joliet FanFest NAS-
(Heimlich maneuver) was also on hand to
CAR, Chicagoland Speed-
present President Jones with the Heimlich
way and Associated Fire-
Institute’s “Save A Life Award”.
fighters of Illinois. Guest

SALF Serves on AHA First


Aid Task Force
Carol Spizzirri, SALF founder, joined fellow
nationally recognized resuscitation leaders to
serve on American Heart Association’s “The
First Aid Task Force” in Dallas, TX. “The
appearance included NAS-
First Aid 2005 Task Force was formed to seek
CAR Driver Travis Geisler-
a thorough scholarly review of current knowl-
Busch Series.
edge and understanding of First Aid practices.

Bush Thanks “GO


Putting Acute Care into Perspective
ARMY” for “Race for Life”
SALF’s President Carol Spizzirri accepted the President Bush, an avid enthusiast of the car race cir-
invitation to serve on the National Center for cuit, gave his personal thanks to the fastest driver in
Injury Prevention and Control (NIH) and Cen- the world NRHA “GO
ters for Disease Control’s (CDC) “Acute Care ARMY” driver Tony
Research Committee” to incorporate Pre-EMS Schumacher.
into its guidelines. CDC is the leading principal Schumacher greeted race
agency in the United States government known car fans at SALF’s sec-
for protecting the health and safety of all ond annual “Race For
Americans. Life”, held in Palatine,
Illinois.
Mirroring SALF’s 2002 “RACE FOR LIFE”
event, in Des Plaines, Illinois with Dale The event was sponsored by the Village of Palatine
Ernhardt Jr., SALF’s 2003 “RACE FOR LIFE” and SALF. Import and Domestic autos, racecars
was held in Charlotte, North Carolina. from the Porsche series, Chicagoland MOPAR, and
NASCAR, driver Ken Shrader participated in the
The event was hosted by Governor Mike Eas- fundraising campaign.
ley, and sponsored by Nextel Communications.
Page 8
Save A Life Foundation
National Headquarters
2003-2004 SALF National Spokesman– Travis O’Hare Aerospace Center
Geisler, NASCAR Driver-Bush Series 9950 West Lawrence Ave. Suite # 300
Schiller Park, Illinois 60176
2003-2004 SALF State Spokesman—Illinois State
Senate President, Emil Jones
Illinois Branch Offices:
Executive Board of Directors SALF State Office, Springfield
Carol J. Spizzirri, President & Founder Alexian Brothers Medical Center, Hanover Park
Save A Life Foundation Anderson Hospital, Maryville
Doug Browne, Treasurer St. James Hospital, Pontiac
Deputy Director, National Center for Injury Joliet Fire Department, Joliet
Prevention and Control , CDC
Rita Mullins, Secretary Indiana
Mayor of Palatine, Illinois Walnut Township Volunteer Fire Department
Peggy Trimble, RN,
Pennsylvania State EMS Director (retired) Florida
Office of the Mayor
Advisory Board
Fire & Rescue Department, Miami
Derek Crawford
Regional Director of State Government Affairs,
Pennsylvania
Altria, INC.
John J. Donleavy American Trauma Society, Mechanicsburg
Vice President, VELCO
Power & Light, VT Wisconsin
Robert E. Ryan St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, Milwaukee
Vice President, Government Affairs,
Comcast Communications Major Sponsors
Mark Mitchell, D.O.
ER Medical Director, St. Joseph Regional
*Ronald McDonald House Charities-Global
Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI
*Ronald McDonald House Charities -
Steve Orebaugh, M.D.
Chicagoland and Northwest Regions
Pittsburgh Medical Center Altria, INC.
Ernesto Pretto, M.D. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois
Professor and Chief, University of Miami, Chicago Public Schools
Jackson Memorial Hospital, Department of
Anesthesiology, President of WADEM (former)
Comcast Communications
ComEd-Exelon Company
Daily Herald Publications
State Council
Kimball Hill Homes
Ken Alderson
Pace Transportation
Executive Director of Illinois Municipal League
Rider Dickerson, Inc.
Edward Crews, FF/EMT-P
Irv Bock
Mayor of Hanover Park, Illinois Illinois State Representative Louis Lang -
Kelly Clancy
“SALF has saved the lives of countless numbers of people. It is
Corporate Director of External Affairs,
truly the gift that keeps giving. From small beginnings, this
Alexian Brothers organization has become very significant and with our attention
Martin J. Heffron and help can become a model for 1000s around the country to
Business Consultant, U.S. Cellular follow. The lessons learned by so many children will do much
to lead us to a safer and more aware citizenry and I am proud
Medical Board to stand with Carol and her legions to do whatever I am able to
Carol Spizzirri, B.S.N. bring this message and these lessons to more and more people."
Peter Safar, M.D., ScD., (Father of CPR, deceased)
Henry Heimlich, M.D., ScD., (Heimlich maneuver)
Steve Orebaugh, M.D.
Ernesto A. Pretto, M.D.
Mark Mitchell, D.O.
Page 9

Financial
2003 2004
Statement of Financial Position-Dec. 31, 2003 Statement of Financial Position-June 30, 2004

Current Assets $ 188,812 Current Assets $1,149,045


Fixed Assets-Net $ 271,497 Fixed Assets-Net $ 254,539

Total Assets $ 460,309 Total Assets $ 1,403,584

Current Liabilities $ 30,220 Current Liabilities $ 38,801


Long Term Liabilities $ 306,994 Long Term Liabilities $ 294,810

Total Liabilities $ 337,214 Total Liabilities $ 333,611

Unrestricted Net Assets $ 23,095 Unrestricted Net Assets $ 42,500


Temporarily Restricted Net Assets $ 100,000 Temporarily Restricted Net Assets $ 1,112,473
Total Net Assets $ 1,069,973
Total Net Assets $ 123,095

Total Liabilities and Net Assets $ 460,309 Total Liabilities and Net Assets $ 1,403,584

Statement of Activities –Unrestricted Statement of Activities –Unrestricted


Year Ended Dec. 31, 2003 Six Months Ended June 30, 2004

Income by Program: Income by Program:

Illinois State Grant 37% $ 430,281 Illinois State Grant 11% $ 20,000
National Expansion 12% $ 132,968 National Expansion 34% $ 64,957
Paid Training 3% $ 36,016 Paid Training 12% $ 23,160
Fund Development 40% $ 454,898 Fund Development 41% $ 77,088
General Administration 8% $ 96,859 General Administration 2% $ 3,007
Total Income $ 1,151,022 Total Income $ 188,212

Expenses by Program: Expenses by Program:


Illinois State Grant 53% $ 720,642 Illinois State Grant 32% $ 82,138
National Expansion 10% $ 27,055 National Expansion 53% $ 134,505
Paid Training 1% $ 13,336 Paid Training 3% $ 8,021
Fund Development 24% $ 329,196 Fund Development 3% $ 7,815
General Administration 12% $ 165,227 General Administration 9% $ 21,328

Total Expenses $ 1,355,456 Total Expenses $ 253,807

Operating Surplus (Deficit) $ <204,434>


Operating Surplus (Deficit) $
<65,595>
Page

Save A Life Foundation


National Headquarters
O’Hare Aerospace Center
9950 West Lawrence Ave. Suite # 300
Schiller Park, Illinois 60176

Telephone: 847-928-9683
Fax: 847-928-9684

Trained Hands Save Lives


www.salf.org
DIVIDER
SALF
Save A Life Foundation

Annual Report
2005
Executive Board of Directors
President Advisory Board
Ken Alderson President, Illinois Municipal League
Carol J. Spizzirri, Derek L. Crawford, Regional Director of Government Affairs
President and Founder Altria - IL
Save A Life Foundation - IL Edward Crews FF/EMT-P Vice President,
Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois
Treasurer John Donleavy, President and CEO VELCO - VT
Mark Friedman, MD, FACEP FACP - IL
Douglas R. Browne, Darrell Patterson Safe Kids Coordinator - IL
Treasurer Bob Ryan Vice President Gov’t Affairs Comcast - IL
DBMD, Centers for Disease Control Jeffrey Schwartz, DO - IL
& Prevention - GA Dick Stipher Retired Assistant School Superintendent - IL

Secretary Medical Board Founding Members


Carol Spizzirri, R.N. President/Founder
Honorable Rita Mullins, Secretary Peter Safar M.D. ScD (Dec’d) (Father of CPR)
Mayor Palatine, IL, Exec. Bd, Safar Resuscitation Research Center -PA
U.S. Conference of Mayors, Henry Heimlich, M.D. ScD (Heimlich Maneuver)
Illinois Municipal League President Heimlich Institute - OH

Senior Advisor Medical Advisory Board


Mark Mitchell, D.O.,
Andrew Knapp, SALF Executive Director - WI
Executive Board Member EMS Medical Director Wheaton Franciscan Health Care St.
Vice Pres of Gov’t Relations Josephs - WI
Magellan Health Services - D.C. Steven Orebaugh, M.D., SALF Executive Director - PA
Anesthesiology Director South Side Hospital
Illinois SALF Spokesperson Ernesto A. Pretto, MD, MPH, SALF Executive Director - FL
Professor of Clinical Anesthesia Jackson Memorial Hospital -
Emil Jones, Jr. U of Miami
Illinois Senate President Robert W. Amler, MD Dean-
School of Public Health N.Y. Medical College
Sherlita Amler, MS FAAP, Health Commissioner, Putnam County
- NY

Sponsors
Abbott Laboratories * Adolph Kiefer and Assoc. * Ahlbeck & Company* Air Quality Maintenance * Alan and Sourixat
Thavisouk * Albert Fernando Contemporary Marketing * Albrecht Enterprises * Alexian Brothers Health System, Inc.
* Allstate Foundation * Altria Corporate Services, Inc. * American College of Osteopathic Emergency Physicians *
Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois* Bank One * Blue Cross Blue Shield * Briskman & Briskman * Browning Ferris
Industries * Cambridge Homes * Caraher Management * Charlotte-Mecklenberg Police * Chicago Cubs* Chicago
Wolves Pro Hockey * Chicagoland Speedway * Cisco Systems * City of Concord * City of Des Plaines * CLTV *
ComCast * Commonwealth Edison Co. * Competition Telecom Inc. * Corporate Treats * Cremation Services Inc.*
Currie Motors * Daily Herald * Dave Pate and Son’s * Degen & Rosato Construction Co. * Elkay * ESPN’s RPM
Tonight * Exelon - ComEd and PECO * Floran Technologies * GO ARMY Racing * Gurtz Electric * H & H Electric
* Hilton Hotels World Headquarters * Household - HELP Charity Committee * IL State Rep., Lee Daniels * Irwin
Andrew Porter Foundation * Italian American War Veterans #5 * Jade Gurss * Jay Howard Enterprises * John O.
Brill * John Spot/Tim Lintner * Kimball Hill Homes * Kintetsu Intl. Travel Consultants * Kraft Racing * Krispy Kreme
* Legends in Stone * Lowe’s Motor Speedway * McDonald’s Corporation * Midwest Equipment Rentals * Motorola
* NEXTEL Communications * North Carolina CERT * North Carolina Citizens Corps.* North Carolina Governor’s
Office * Northwest Display Corp * OCTAGON Marketing * PACTIV Corporation * Parkway Bank and Trust * Pro Star
* R. Carrozza Plumbing Co., Inc. * Racing Reflections* Red Bull Cheever Racing* Richard Petty Driving Experience
* Ronald McDonald Global * Ronald McDonald House Charities Chicago/Northern Indiana * Rosemont Exposition
Services * Rosemont Suites * Ryan and Ryan * SBC Communications * Stoffel Seals Corporation * Storino, Ramello
& Durkin * TCF Bank * United Airlines Foundation * Vahey Construction Co., Inc.* West Cook Municipal League *
Westpoint Stevens * William A. McGinty Company

i Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


History of Save A Life Foundation
The Save A Life Foundation (SALF), a not-for-
profit Foundation, was founded in 1993 by Carol
J Spizzirri, RN, after her 18 year old daughter,
Christina Jean Spizzirri, bled to death following
a hit and run incident on Labor Day, 1992. First
responders were not trained in life supporting
first aid (LSFA) skills, and consequently stood by
helplessly waiting for Emergency Medical Service
(EMS) to arrive some 30 minutes later.

In an effort to prevent this needless tragedy from happening again,


Spizzirri was responsible for the passage of an Illinois state mandate
requiring all police officers and fire fighters to be trained in LSFA
skills at their academies, with yearly refresher courses. Meanwhile,
Dr. Peter Safar, (father of CPR) and Dr. Henry Heimlich, (Heimlich
maneuver) approached Ms. Spizzirri to encourage her to train the
masses by training school children to make LSFA skills a part of our
culture of preparedness.

Both Doctors Safar and Heimlich joined SALF’s Medical Board and
assisted Spizzirri in creating age-appropriate courses to train school
age children in LSFA skills. To date SALF has trained nearly 2 million
children in seven states. Carol Spizzirri is widely respected as a
national authority on Pre-EMS and for her efforts of promoting EMS at
the local, state, and federal levels.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Conference of Mayors adopted the


Community Response Systems Initiative (CRSI) Resolution, named
in honor of Christina Spizzirri, committing their support to SALF as
a foundation for emergency preparing their communities. Thereafter
U.S. Senator Norm Coleman (MN), sponsored the “CRSI ACT” to
assist in this initiative.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report ii


Office of the Founder/President
SALF began its important work to prepare Bystanders
13 years ago. Many events have taken place since
then to profoundly change the way our society
views citizen preparedness.

The World Trade Center disaster brought home our


vulnerabilities to man-made disasters. Hurricane
Katrina re-emphasized that natural disasters are an
ongoing concern to every community. We continue to
work tirelessly to provide LSFA training to all Americans,
starting with our children.

This past year we began a number of initiatives at the local, state, and
national levels designed to provide a broader spectrum to vulnerable
populations. We continue to be vigilant to ensure that the Good
Samaritan Law protects those who do render aid.

Institute of Medicine’s “Future of EMS in the Healthcare System”


report on the state of our nation’s Emergency Medical Services
(EMS), further underscores the urgent need for a solid infrastructure
and national policy to provide for the growth and future of EMS. To
assure a seamless reaction between EMS and Pre-EMS, SALF
continues to expand its national partnerships with community based
and civic organizations focused on educating our young people. Our
legislative partners are working closely with us to develop baseline
standards that will allow us to expand nationwide.

As we embark upon many new challenges that face us, I would be


remiss if I did not take this opportunity to thank our many partners and
sponsors. With your continued support, we are certain to succeed in
our mission to save lives.

Carol J. Spizzirri

iii Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Table of Contents
History of Save A Life Foundation.....................................................ii
Message from Our Founder/President.............................................iii
Affiliations..........................................................................................v
Mission and Vision............................................................................1
Coverage Map..................................................................................1
Fast Facts.........................................................................................2
Program Overview............................................................................4
Youth ChalleNGe Partnership...........................................................6
Annual Performance Measurements................................................8
Achievement Percentage Rates.......................................................9
SALF Programs: A State View........................................................10
Corp. Sponsor Summaries - RMHC/CPS.......................................17
SALF Coalition................................................................................18
Corp. Sponsor Summary - Blue Cross Blue Shield - Illinois...........19
Girl Uses SALF Lesson to Save Friend..........................................20
Highlights & Accomplishments........................................................22
Third Bi-annual “Bridge The Gap Summit” 2005.............................26
Cost-Benefit Analysis......................................................................28
Appendix - Definition of Terms........................................................30
In Memory of Mayor Irwin A. Bock..................................................32

Copyright Save A Life Foundation 2006

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report iv


Salf Affiliations
Save A Life Foundation is a national affiliate of the following
organizations. These partners have proven valuable in our efforts to
train America’s children.

v Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Mission
The Mission of the Save A Life Foundation is to train and develop
“Bystanders”, especially children, as volunteers equipped with Life
Supporting First Aid Skills (LSFA) to aid in an emergency.

Vision
The vision of the Save A Life Foundation is to provide LSFA training to
citizens of every state and territory, making the ability and willingness
to sustain life a part of the fabric of American society, while protecting
those who render aid by vigilance over the Good Samaritan Laws.

MAP
Map shows SALF branches in California, Vermont, New York,
Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Florida (color code Youth
Challenge program states)

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 1


FAST FACTS
SALF Courses
• Age appropriate courses Kindergarten through grade 12
• Structured within existing school instruction (averages one
hour per student per year)
• Taught by local EMS professionals
• Provides empowering, basic skills and mentoring by
positive role models
• Free to school children
• Adult courses available for fee, with proceeds
supplementing free child training

SALF Program Design


• Program administered by Site Facilitator with
medical background
• Site Facilitator receives 20 hours of orientation
• Students are tested and data is processed and stored
for accountability
• Program oversight provided by SALF
• SALF provides orientation and screening of instructors
• Start-up mini-grants through SALF maybe available
for qualified recipients
• Local participation ensures relevance to
regional preparedness/training issues

SALF Eligibility Criteria


• Instructors must be EMT certified and posses a
current police background check
• Instructors receive a four hour orientation how to train
children and testing procedures
• Hosting sites must enter into a signed agreement
• Program sites must meet SALF Board of
Directors standards
• Program sites must meet sustainability requirements

2 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


SALF Statistics to Date
• 1,643,292 children trained
• 13 Branches/Satellites in seven states
• Average number of students 25 per class
• Controlled testing shows 97% percent retention and
57% percent attitude change as of 2006
• SALF Instructors provided 3,340,000 hours of service to
the community valued at $30,060,000
• Average EMS credit hours 12,800
• Average school teacher credit hours 6,800
• Federal and state funds contributes 77% of training
costs, while hosting sites provide a minimum of 23% of the
base cost
• 91% of funds are used for training, while 9% is used
for operating expenses

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 3


Program Overview
How Does SALF Affect EMS Professionals?
• Helps maintain skills proficiency
• Enhances EMS career with supplemental benefits,
including continuing education credit hours
• Works well with EMS schedule of “one day on, two
days off”
• Provides opportunity to
teach children valuable
skills to maintain life
until professionals arrive
• Improves community
relations
• Presents youth with
positive role models
and mentorship
• Promotes EMS careers among students

How Does SALF Affect Hospitals?


• Promotes health safety education to the community
• Provides additional community outreach avenues
• Supplements free training for children through on-site
or off-site adult for-fee courses (program can
become self-sufficient with various funding sources,
including grants and donations)
• Strengthens relationship between citizens, local
and state agencies
• Engages Medical Reserve Corps members as
SALF instructors

How Does SALF Affect Mayors?


• Promotes community preparedness citywide (Citizen
Corps/Medical Reserve Corps). Fosters cooperative
efforts between government, schools, and first responders
• Enhances value of EMS professionals to the community
• Opens additional grant-funding opportunities

4 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


• Promotes increased
involvement of business
community in mayor-
supported initiatives

How Does SALF Affect


Students and Schools?
• Students learn valuable
life long skills that could save a life
• Students will bring their new skills home to family members
and teach them what they learned in school
• Fosters a positive attitude toward helping others
• Time considerate to schools, courses average 25 students
per class and one hour per child per school year
• In-class teacher evaluation provides accountability of
SALF courses
• Web-based data collection provides accountability of
student skills retention
• Opportunity for teachers to be trained and receive
continuing education credits
• Mentoring is a critical aspect of the SALF program and
what sets SALF apart, especially those at-risk students.
Evidence is clear that the positive aspects of an EMS
provider translates their new skills and facilitates a
behavioral change to help those in need. The positive role
model also heightens the possibility of an EMS or
medical career

How Does SALF Affect the Business Community?


• Improves company-employee relations through
corporate sponsorships
• Increases ties to local community through improved
corporate citizenship
• Provides opportunity for paid employee training to offset
free children’s programs
• Provides additional avenues for corporate marketing, public
service advertisement to demonstrate its good will

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 5


How Does SALF Affect Citizens Corps and Medical
Reserve Corps?
• Promotes spirit of volunteerism
• Provides additional cooperative benefit opportunities
• Improves community preparedness through coordination
with other affiliate programs
• Provides valuable activities to keep members engaged

SALF Youth ChalleNGe Partnership

SALF Programs will be made


available to 29 Youth ChalleNGe
Academies in 33 states and Puerto
Rico as part of a partnership
agreement between SALF and the
U.S. National Guard Bureau

Earlier this year, SALF entered into an agreement to provide our


LSFA course to youth 16-18 as part of the National Youth ChalleNGe
program, which mentors and educates high school “at-risk” students.
Under the agreement, ChalleNGe’s Emergency Medical Technician
staff will be trained as SALF instructors to train cadets during the
residential phase of the program.

SALF initially established its first ChalleNGe partnership in Illinois at


Lincoln’s ChalleNGe Academy. Illinois was part of the original group of
pilot programs for Youth ChalleNGe in 1993 and has graduated

6 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


more than 8,000 cadets since its inception. SALF instructors will train
approximately 800 cadets this year, and nearly 8,000 nationally each
year as part of this ground breaking partnership.

SALF is in discussions with Civil Air Patrol to offer training to chapters


in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Under a national agreement more
than 27,000 CAP Cadets at 1,700 sites will receive LSFA training.
SALF continues to increase its ongoing training to Junior ROTC
cadets each year through existing programs in school systems
throughout the country..

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 7


Annual Performance Measurements

All SALF trained students are given a skills test to measure subject
matter knowledge. The test consists of 10 questions based on the age-
appropriate module. All results are stored in SALF’s data collection
system. Results and trends are studied to measure consistency of
instruction and seek ways to improve training delivery and results
while measuring the value these skills play in changing a child’s value
to help others.

Mentoring is an important aspect of the SALF program. A multi-


dimensional mentoring model is what sets SALF apart from other
youth-programs. Evidence is clear, that the positive aspects of youth
participating in a short, highly energized course, with those who utilize
these skills as a career, increase the student’s interest in the field of
EMS and are eager to follow their example when ever possible. By
working one on one with the school staff, SALF facilitators are aware
of any special needs, such as language barriers prior to scheduling
the class and assign appropriate local instructors to work with those
needing assistance.

8 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Program Achievement Percentage Rates

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 9


Of the targeted youth, 97% successfully retain the course skills after
three months. Each student reads each skill with the instructor, views
a demonstration, and is given a hands-on practical opportunity to
utilize skills. A testing score card is presented at the completion of
the course, with eight course skills related questions and two optional
questions to determine if the student gained life-altering value from
the course. The instructor gathers all completed test cards and the
teacher’s Class Evaluation Sheet before leaving the session. These
cards and evaluation sheets are returned to the hosting site for
processing. It has been demonstrated that 57% of those students
who complete the course have increased their willingness to help
others in need, where they would not have prior to the training.

The average cost per student completing the SALF training is $10
per session. The total cost includes all instructional material, clinical
practice equipment and supplies, the instructor supplemental benefits,
@ $1 per child student, testing and data collection processing, and
related support. There are currently SALF sites in 7 states. SALF’s
partnership with U.S. National Guard’s “Youth Challenge” program will
increase sites by 50% to 54 sites in 40 states within the next fiscal
year.

Save A Life Foundation’s continuing


efforts to educate and inform,
impact people’s lives every day. - IL
Senate President, Emil Jones
SALF State Spokesman

SALF Programs: A State View


Illinois’ SALF program has grown tremendously during the past
year, with seven new branches and satellites scheduled to open in

10 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


2006-07. The addition of the Lincoln’s ChalleNGe, Teen Reach, and
Civil Air Patrol have also added to the success of SALF’s growth.
Illinois legislators continue to provide their loyal support through
state funding. Illinois Senate President Emil Jones, SALF’s State
Spokesperson, has personally saved three lives over the past four
years using the Heimlich maneuver. “Funding for SALF is an important
tool in educating young people in the techniques of life saving” -IL
Senate President Emil Jones

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 11


Indiana has demonstrated tremendous potential for growth with
interest in the SALF training coming from all areas of the state. The
Youth ChalleNGe program is expected to begin operation in 2007,
further solidifying the base of support for the program.

12 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


The home state of SALF’s mentor and medical board member, the
late Dr. Peter Safar, Pennsylvania continues to be fertile ground for
SALF’s training programs. A pilot program in the Philadelphia Schools
will begin in the 2006-07 school year, training 5,000 students as part
of its Jr. ROTC and Driver Education programs. The Philadelphia
Schools Emergency Preparedness Committee and schools CEO,
Paul Vallas has been instrumental in bringing SALF training to one of
the nation’s largest school systems.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 13


Wisconsin has been steadily establishing itself as the premiere
SALF program for its creativity and dedication to training its children.
Milwaukee’s St Joseph Hospital acts as the main branch for
operations, training over 12,000 children last year. In upstate Green
Bay, a pilot program expects to attract surrounding communities and
additional corporate sponsorships next year.

14 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Florida has produced an abundance of support for SALF training.
The Miami Florida Branch through the Mayor’s office, as part of his
mentoring program, will provide for greater numbers of children to be
trained in Miami-Dade County. A new affiliation with Jackson hospital
will position the SALF program to participate in research projects.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 15


Expansion of the SALF training should continue at a rapid pace
during 2006-07. In addition to opening new branches in New York,
Vermont, and California, SALF anticipates new branch locations in
Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. With the SALF/Youth ChalleNGe
Partnership Initiative, training could begin in as many as ten states
during the initial phase, with 33 states possible under the program.

16 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Ronald McDonald House Charities Global &
Chicago Public Schools
In September 2005, Ronald McDonald House Charities Global
and Chicago Public Schools collaborated to award the Save A Life
Foundation a $50,000 grant. This grant provided Basic Life Supporting
First Aid training to 5,500 fourth and fifth-grade school children in 50
Chicago Public Schools.

The chosen schools were located throughout all areas of the city, from
the far south side to the far northwest side and all points in between.
Students from all walks of life were given the opportunity to participate
in classes that impact not only their lives, but that radically impact the
lives of others as they became trained to save a life.

Mr. Ken Barun, President and CEO of Ronald McDonald House


Charities; Mr. Paul Clark, Board President of Ronald McDonald
House Charities; and Mr. Arne Duncan, CEO of Chicago Public
Schools recognized the opportunity to improve the lives of children
and dramatically change the nation’s preparedness landscape. We
appreciate their ongoing commitment, and salute them for having the
foresight to recognize the need for this training.

We would be remiss if we did not include a big, “Thank You” to all of


the school principals, nurses, event coordinators, faculty, and staff
who willingly opened their classrooms to SALF and who worked with
us to ensure a successful training experience for their students. We
look forward to working with them again next year.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 17


Save A Life Foundation Coalition
Since 1996 SALF has been awarded appropriations through the Illinois
Department of Public Health. Since 2000 SALF has received federal
funding through Centers for Disease Control. Through the generosity
of private donations SALF has been able to offset the growing demand
for it’s training. The events of September 11, 2001, Hurricane Katrina
in 2005, and the increasing threat of terrorism, SALF has recieved
requests for its training that exceed current resources. To address the
increased demand, the SALF Coalition formed.

As a SALF Coalition Member, contributors will be linked to SALF’s


web site. Coalition members will be featured in SALF’s publications
throughout the year. Premiere Coalition members will have the option
of being included in SALFTOWN Kid’s interactive website which
features educational activities. Other membership options include:

• Adopt-A-School - sponsor the training ($10.00 per child


covers the cost of training, books, equipment
and instructors)

• Direct Contribution - of any amount through our Coalition


Web page guarantees your generous donation will support
SALF in all our effort to save lives.

18 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


In December 2005, BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois awarded the Save
A Life Foundation a $15,000 grant to train 1,500 school children in
six Chicago Public Schools in Basic Life Supporting First Aid skills.
Each of the schools chosen has a student body representative of the
diversity within the Chicago Public School system. Students were
given the opportunity to participate in these educational and relevant
First Aid training classes.

Mr. Raymond F. McCaskey, President and CEO of BlueCross


BlueShield, Healthcare Division for Illinois, recognized the opportunity
to improve the lives of children living in our great city and selflessly
secured needed funding to make the vision a reality. We thank him
and Ms. Anita Pluta for their commitment in serving their communities.
We also salute them for having the foresight to recognize the need for
this training.

Thank you to all of the school principals, nurses, event coordinators,


faculty, and staff who willingly opened their classrooms to SALF and
worked with us to ensure a successful training experience for their
students. We look forward to working with you again next year.

Through our combined efforts, we have been able to make a positive


impact in the lives of the 1,547 children that were trained. More
importantly, they are now equipped to act responsibly and decisively
when faced with an actual emergency.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 19


Girl uses SALF lesson to save friend’s life

Taylor Tosovsky and Rachel Wiesehan have been best friends since
kindergarten. But now their friendship means something more. Both
girls, who are 10-years-old, are students at St. Bonafice and play on
the Metro United soccer team. Last weekend the girls had a match in
Jefferson City, Mo. Taylor and another friend walked to get some ice.
When the two were walking back, she put a piece of ice in her mouth
and it lodged in her throat. At first, Taylor’s friend thought she was
playing, but she was choking. Her friend called out for help and help
came in a small, brown-haired, big-eyed, little girl. Rachel remembered
the steps she had been taught in the Save A Life assembly she had
attended at school the week before. The fireman had showed Rachel
and her fellow classmates how to properly give the Heimlich Maneuver
and how to perform CPR.

“I heard people yelling and I ran out in the hall,” Wiesehan said. “I
just started giving her the Heimlich, I didn’t really even think about it.”
Rachel helped save Taylor’s life and she learned how by the Save A
Life program.

The program is now offered in schools all across the United States.
Locally, the program is administered at St. Mary’s, Trinity School
and St. Bonafice. Captain Tom Dannenberg of the Edwardsville
Fire Department said the program varies with the age group. “The
kindergarten class is a half hour and teaches the basics,” Dannenberg
said. “They learn how to recognize an emergency and when it is safe
to help and how to call 9-1-1.” He said the younger students also learn

20 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


the “look, listen, feel” move for breathing. The older students go up
to a two hour session and discuss the Heimlich, CPR and how to
help someone if they are bleeding. “This is a great program. We don’t
get a lot of chances to talk to the kids,” Dannenberg said. “We really
appreciate the schools letting us come in and show the kids safety. It
just proves that young children can be taught how to save a life. We
want people to be involved as safely as they can and know the steps
on how to safely help in an emergency.”
Eric Brandmeyer the EMS coordinator of Anderson Hospital and the
Save A Life Director for local schools said the girls are extraordinary.
“I have submitted them for the Save A Life Tree of Life Award,”
Brandmeyer said. “It takes the opportunity to give kids the recognition
for saving a life, and that is definitely the case with the two girls.”
Brandmeyer also said the program has benefited greatly for children
in the community. He explained the program is available to all schools
within the Anderson Hospital area and is free.

Jen Hengehold, the physical education teacher for kindergarten


through eighth grade at St. Bonafice, said the program has become a
staple within the school.
“This is the second year we have had the program and the second time
something good happened because of what was taught,” Hengehold
said. “I am very happy we have this program and I am very, very proud
of my students’ ability to respond to serious emergencies.”
Last year, some of the children that attend St. Bonafice were building
a bike ramp. One child was severely injured from a shovel slicing open
the back of his leg. The other children had recently went through the
Save A Life program at school and knew how to apply pressure to the
wound.
As far as the girls go, Rachel is remaining humble about her new
found celebrity status.
“I don’t really think I am famous, but some people think I am.”
And will Taylor ever eat ice again?
“I hate ice,” she said. - Marci Winters-McLaughlin/Intelligencer

(c)Edwardsville Intelligencer 2006

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 21


Highlights & Accomplishments
National Highlights

U.S. Department of Homeland Security - a natural partnership


created by existing philosophy, expertise, and SALF’s core
competencies in bystander citizen preparedness. SALF’s efforts to
prepare citizens as bystanders is in keeping with DHS mission to
better inform, educate and prepare average citizens to cope with a
catastrophic man-made or natural disaster. SALF continues to work
closely with Citizens Corps and Medical Reserve Corps at the local
and national levels. For the third year SALF was featured in U.S.
Homeland Security’s Annual Report for its contribution in conjunction
with SALF month during National Preparedness Month.

National Executive Board - restructured in 2003, the National


Executive Board of Directors appointed five members, President,
Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer, who are
responsible for developing and overseeing all policies, redefining
and establishing protocols to accommodate expansion and structure
of the organization. Andrew Knapp, a former aide to Health and
Human Services (HHS) Secretary Tommy Thompson, was appointed
to the National Advisory Board in early 2006. His experience has
strengthened SALF’s understanding on a variety of issues including
homeland security. Knapp also served on Secretary Thompson’s
Budget Council. Currently he serves as Vice-President of Government
Relations for Magellan Health Services.

National Affiliations - By strengthening ties to our not-for-profit


partners such as the U.S. Conference of Mayors, state municipal
leagues, League of Cities, county governments, emergency
departments, county health departments, community colleges and
school districts, SALF has positioned itself to meet the national
challenges of preparing our youth to become emergency active
citizens. Those organizations with similar interests have established
a mutually beneficial non-threatening understanding of our goals and
philosophy and have served to solidify our infrastructure.

22 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


New Strategic Partnerships - Over the years partnerships with,
Chicago Public Schools, Ronald McDonald House Charities Global,
Blue Cross Blue Shield Illinois and Pennsylvania, CBS Outdoor,
VELCO, Kimball Hill Homes Foundation, Comcast, EXELON, and
others have proven beneficial and are vital to our continued growth.
Our long time corporate supporters are greatly appreciated for their
generosity. Their belief in SALF has achieved making a life saving
difference for our children. This coming year new alliances will begin
with several public and private partners whose goals and objectives
closely compliment those of the Foundation. They will include the
Philadelphia Public Schools, Protecting America, American Association
of Community Colleges, Illinois Community College Board.

Save A Life Month Proclamations - 28 State Governors, and


2,501 municipal leaders from across the U.S. and Puerto Rico have
proclaimed SALF month for September 2005. This is an increase of
over 400% since 1993. The effort of state and local governments to
encourage citizens to become emergency prepared continues to be
an intergral part of our national visioin.

Founder/President Recognized - Illinois Resolution HR305,


sponsored by State Representative Lou Lang, and passed
unanimously in the House of Representatives. The resolution
recognized Carol J. Spizzirri, SALF’s President and Founder for
her work and the accomplishments of SALF since 1993 in training
children of Illinois to be ready to act in an emergency. SALF’s training
has resulted in many lives being saved by students who received the
SALF training. Spizzirri has served on numerous committees and
boards in 2005-06 including:
• AHA (American Heart Association) National First Aid
Science Advisory Board
• Ad Hoc Coalition to Save Lives Through Public Access
To Defibrillation
• Appointed NY Medical College, Adjunct Professor
• Illinois Homeland Security Task Force

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 23


• National U.S. Homeland Security’s Citizen Corps
Council member
• California Homeland Security-Citizen Corps
Council member
• IOM (Institute of Medicine) Committee on the Future of
Emergency Care in the U.S. Health System
• CDC (Centers for Disease Control) Acute Care Research
Agenda Steering Committee

IL State Highlights

Illinois Funding Support - In response to the increasing demand


statewide for SALF training, Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich,
recognized the importance of emergency preparing our children
by including SALF in his 2006 budget. This action by the Governor
demonstrates his commitment to the children of Illinois and to the
continuation of the SALF program.

Illinois Municipal League - (IML) made an important contribution to


their support of SALF by providing a web portal on the IML web site
to promote SALF and its community activities with IML members. This
partnership has proven successful in stimulating mayors to adapt the
program statewide. Ken Alderson, Executive Director of IML, recently
joined SALF’s Illinois State Advisory Board.

Illinois Teen Reach - A youth-oriented program established through


the Illinois Department of Human Services, has collaborated with
SALF to provide training to many of its 126 statewide programs. Teen
REACH (Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope)
offers positive services and activities for youth between the ages of 6
and 17 during non-school hours. Teen REACH has helped thousands
of kids stay out of trouble and learn to enjoy life, and soon how to save
a life. The SALF trained youths are provided a positive mentor/role
model relationship by SALF Instructors, and some have expressed an
interest in the EMS profession.

24 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Internal Affairs

Reorganization - A new operational structure was implemented


this year at SALF Headquarters. By redefining and combining job
functions and hiring professional staff in strategic functional areas,
the Foundation seeks to create a seamless work plan and customer
service oriented environment. As the Foundation prepares for
immediate and long-term growth, it is our goal to provide the highest
level of professionalism to our stakeholders. An Illinois State Director
was appointed early in 2006 at SALF’s Springfield office, to develop
new and monitor existing sites and work closely with our state
partners.

Technology Upgrades - have begun with an aggressive approach


to moving our education materials to an on-line system. Policy and
procedure manuals, marketing, and other useful materials are being
provided on a web-based system allowing our Branches and Satellites
easier access. Routine data will be updated and transferred more
efficiently, as will training statistics and test results. SALF’s goal is to
streamline internal systems system further by continuing to develop
an interactive web base infrastructure as more SALF sites have
access to the latest technology.

SALFTOWN USA - Is a much-anticipated portal to SALF’s virtual


learning capabilities for elementary school children is now only a
click away. The learning opportunities for children to understand
emergency services will be greatly enhanced as children K-6th
grades refresh their newly learned life saving skills with the assistance
of SALF’s mascot’s “Perry Medic” and “EMy-Tech”. SALFTOWN’s
goal is to illustrate through an interactive training vehicle, that children
will discover is both fun and educational, reassuring them they can
actually make a life saving difference.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 25


Third Biannual “Bridge the Gap Summit”
2005
April 28th, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont,
Illinois SALF hosted a one-day consensus panel meeting on
developing guidelines for a National Pre-Emergency Medical Service
(Pre-EMS) Response Team represented by a 21-member panel
assembly comprised of top federal, state, and local administration
officials, public Health experts, corporate executives, mayors,
emergency response managers, first responders, and school health
and safety supervisors. Panelist were separated into three focus
groups 1) Pre-EMS for Schools, 2) Pre-EMS for the Community, and
3) The Future of EMS.

The Summit was opened by SALF Illinois State Spokesman


Senate President Emil Jones, emceed was Dr. Mark Mitchell, D.O.,
Emergency Room Medical Director, St. Joseph Regional Medical
Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with guest speakers, Dr. Henry
Heimlich, M.D., ScD, Heimlich Institute, John E. Jones Jr., Deputy
Director of the National Weather Service, Lt. April D. Kidd, Deputy
Director, Cortez Trotter, EMTP, Fire Commissioner, Chicago Fire
Department, Arne Duncan, CEO Chicago Public Schools, and Robert
Colangelo, Branch Chief, FEMA Region V.
Moderators included: Honorable Rita Mullins, Mayor of Palatine,
Illinois and Ernesto Pretto, M.D., Professor of Clinical Anesthesiology,
University of Miami, Jackson Memorial Hospital, Fmr. President of
WADEM.

Issues presented and recommendations:

EMS and school officials need to develop a stronger partnership and


coordinate pre-emergency response plans that utilize off-duty EMS
personnel as instructors to train schoolchildren (grades K-12) and
staff how to respond to medical emergencies.

EMS and school officials should analyze existing resources, limitations


and needs within a community and involve the entire school district,

26 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


the emergency response community, and family organizations in pre-
emergency planning and post event evaluation.

To improve a community’s health and safety during emergencies


an integrated EMS system of training citizens, first responders,
paramedics and hospitals must be developed.

Evaluate and execute the role of the federal, state, and local agencies,
organizations and individuals within a community who affect Pre-EMS
response plans.

To increase the survival rate among victims of Sudden Cardiac Arrest


Citizens need to be trained in basic life-supporting first aid skills,
including CPR and First Aid and schools among with public buildings
should be equipped with Automatic External Defibrillators (AED).

Due to the nation’s lack of measuring response time, it is uncertain to


know approximately how long it will take for EMS to arrive to a scene
after 9-1-1 has been called.

According to a USA Today investigation, only nine of the fifty largest


cities track their response times. And, only an estimated 6% to 10%
of sudden cardiac arrest victims receive medical attention within the
estimated time of survival, while the other 90-94% die.

It has been proven that when a bystander performs CPR prior to


medical arrival, a victim’s chance of surviving a sudden cardiac arrest
triples.

The focus of the 2005 “Bridge the Gap” Summit, highlighted “Best
Practices”, to improve the quality of care during emergencies and to
make EMS an integrated system of trained citizens, first responders,
paramedics and the hospital.

The event ended by honoring Mayor Manny Diaz, Miami, Florida


for incorporating Pre-EMS as part of his “Mentoring Program” for all
Miami school students and strengthening his EMS infrastructure.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 27


Cost Benefit Analysis
Return on Investment (ROI)

The ROI is a key area requiring little effort for big results in justifying
and validating a program. A program is cost-effective if, on the
basis of analysis of competing alternatives, it is determined to have
the lowest costs for a given amount of benefits. Cost-effectiveness
analysis is appropriate whenever it is unnecessary or impractical to
consider the dollar value of the benefits provided by the alternatives
under consideration. Since there is no other child program such as
SALF’s to compare to, it was necessary to provide a dollar amount
and a percentage value based on those figures for a valuable
program. SALF:
• Identifies the results of its training by a simple
questionnaire recognizing measurement of skills
retention level and any attitude change. (97% skills and
57% increased willingness to aid another).
• Seeks feedback from all those trained and who witnessed
the training
• Uses only EMS providers as Instructors for
quality assurance.
• Courses defined by those medical experts who invented
the procedures.
• Provides cost and time effectiveness

SALF’s courses have demonstrated a benefit of an estimated 10%


savings equal to $3.5 million, or more, a year in medical care costs
related to death and disabling injures. Based on A Report to Congress
1989 “Cost of Injury in US” Division of Injury Epidemiologist and
Control, Center for Environmental Health and Injury Control

For every $1 invested, the benefit of SALF’s training provides a


savings to society by a return of 80% confidence level not including
mitigating pain and suffering by those who experience the loss of a
loved one or an employee.

28 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


• Based on perceived value of $100,000
• Multiplying original dollars estimated by level of confidence
$100,000 (benefit of training)
x .80 (confidence factor)
$80,000 (discounted benefit)
• Subtracting cost of program from discounted benefit:
$80,000 (discounted benefit)
$25,000 (cost of 2,500 students)
$55,000 (profit)
• Divide profit by cost of program:
5,000 / $25,000 = 2.2
• Multiply this figure by 100 to obtain a return on investment
(ROI) percentage value for the program relative to input:
100
x 2.2
220% (estimate of value of program - this is
believed to be conservative)

Accordingly, your social investment of $100,000 will have an impact


of $220,000

Source info: J. Phillip, author of “Handbook of Training Evaluation And


Measurement Methods”:1997 FY-2005 Annual Budget

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 29


Appendix: Definition of Terms
AED - Automated External Defibrillator an electronic battery operated
device used to electrically stimulate the heart by rendering a series of
“shocks” to a person whose heart functions have ceased.

CAP -Civil Air Patrol consists of cadets age 14-18 whose interests
include aviation. Adult component comprises search and rescue
augmenters to the Air Force mission.

CDC - Centers for Disease Control and prevention, headquartered


in Atlanta, GA

CERT - Community Emergency Response teams providing local


training and Citizens Corps

CITIZENS CORPS - National network of Department of Homeland


Security sponsored councils of local citizen who plan train for a role in
disasters and emergencies

CPR - Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation - the manual stimulation of the


heart muscle to restore heart and blood pumping functions.

CRSI - Community Response Systems Initiative, named in honor of


“Chrissy” or Christina Spizzirri, consists of a resolution unanimously
adapted by the U.S. Council of Mayors in 2006 to encourage the
training of citizens, especially children. A companion CRSI Act Bill has
been presented by federal legislators to provide funding for training
for municipalities

DHS - Department of Homeland Security

DOD - Department of Defense

EMS - Emergency Medical Services, includes EMT, Paramedic,


hospital personnel involved in emergency life sustaining, life saving,
transport of sick, injured

30 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


FEMA - Federal Emergency Management Agency responsible for
coordination and funding of disaster response and recovery efforts
declared by the President under the Robert T. Stafford Act

HHS - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

IOM - Institute of Medicine

JROTC - Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps, incorporates high


school aged students in a military style service organization

LSFA - Life Supporting First Aid, includes scene safety, bleed control,
rescue breathing, Heimlich maneuver, CPR and use of Automated
External Defibrillator (AED) as defined by Doctors Peter Safar, Henry
Heimlich, and RN Carol Spizzirri

MEDICAL RESERVE CORPS - Medical professionals organized to


respond to emergencies (see Citizens Corps)

NHTSA - National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Pre-EMS - Services rendered to the ill or injured by the general public


“Bystander” prior to arrival of Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
personnel.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 31


In Memory of Mayor Irwin (Irv) A. Bock

Hanover Park, Illinois

Mayor Irwin Bock was a rare individual who motivated everyone who
met him throughout his 69 years. His untimely passing on March 9,
2006, saddened many hearts, especially those here at the Save A Life
Foundation.

For virtually a lifetime, Bock was a pillar in his community and country
putting the welfare of the people as his first priority. Throughout his
distinguished military and political career of 37 years, Bock’s ambition
was to make his community a safe haven. He was elected Village
President of Hanover Park, IL in 1997, where he served until his
death.

Hon. Bock, a graduate of Loop Jr. College, Chicago, served in the U.S.
Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Coast Guard. His distinguished
career also included service as a Chicago police officer and Crew
Chief for the Hanover Park Fire Department.

His desire to serve the community resulted in his appointment as


SALF’s Vice President of Operations in 2000. Shortly after 9-11, Bock
and Palatine, Illinois Mayor Rita Mullins represented SALF at the U.S.
Conference of Mayors meeting in Washington DC. Both noted, the
important role the bystander plays in responding to emergencies and
urged all Mayors to support Save A Life Foundation activities in their
municipalities.

32 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Bock stepped up his efforts to emergency prepare his and surrounding
communities, by encouraging Alexian Brothers Health Network, to
form a partnership with SALF to train the masses. Bock became the
Branch Executive Director of the SALF/Alexian branch in 2003. “Our
initial goal is to train 50,000 children in life saving techniques across
the northwest suburbs over the next five years, to save lives,” Bock
told the Hanover Park Examiner in May 2004.

Bock will be remembered for his grace, dignity and decades of


accomplishments. Mayors throughout the nation will always remember
Honorable Bock’s commitment to empower citizens, starting with
children, with life saving skills.

The entire SALF family extends our most sincere condolences to


the family and friends of Hanover Park Village Mayor Bock. “Irv was
my friend, confidante, and a valued leader whose character was
strengthened by his lovely wife, Carol. To know him was to know a
generous humanitarian who brightened the hearts of many,”- Carol
Spizzirri, Pres/Founder SALF.

We will miss him, but are assured he’ll continue promoting SALF from
the other side. “Good-bye for now Irv”.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 33


2006 Outstanding Service
Awards

SALF Employee of the Year


Carrie Viehweg - State Director Illinois

Branch of the Year


Anderson Hospital - Maryville IL
Eric Brandmeyer - Facilitator

Facilitator of the Year


Gloria Singleton-Young
Wheaton St. Francis Healthcare - St. Joseph Hospital
Milwaukee, WI

Wisconsin Instructor of the Year


Doran Kemp Sr.
Wheaton St. Francis Healthcare - St. Joseph Hospital
Milwaukee, WI

Illinois Instructors of the Year


Saquan Gholar
SALF/Chicago

Maurice Blandon
SALF/Chicago

Chris Locus
Anderson Hospital
Maryville

William Hurt
SALF/Springfield

Scott Vaughn
SALF/Lake Zurich

Danny Pender
SALF/Johnston

Illinois Legislators of the Year


Sen. Steve Rauschenberger
Sen. Donne Trotter
Sen. James Deleo

SALF
Save A Life Foundation

www.salf.org
DIVIDER
SALF
Save A Life Foundation

Annual Report
2006-2007
2006 Outstanding Service
Awards

SALF Employee of the Year


Carrie Viehweg - State Director Illinois

Branch of the Year


Anderson Hospital - Maryville IL
Eric Brandmeyer - Facilitator

Facilitator of the Year


Gloria Singleton-Young
Wheaton St. Francis Healthcare - St. Joseph Hospital
Milwaukee, WI

Wisconsin Instructor of the Year


Doran Kemp Sr.
Wheaton St. Francis Healthcare - St. Joseph Hospital
Milwaukee, WI

Illinois Instructors of the Year


Saquan Gholar
SALF/Chicago

Maurice Blandon
SALF/Chicago

Chris Locus
Anderson Hospital
Maryville

William Hurt
SALF/Springfield

Scott Vaughn
SALF/Lake Zurich

Danny Pender
SALF/Johnston

Illinois Legislators of the Year


Sen. Steve Rauschenberger
Sen. Donne Trotter
Sen. James Deleo

SALF
Save A Life Foundation

www.salf.org
Executive Board of Directors
President Advisory Board
Ken Alderson President, Illinois Municipal League
Carol J. Spizzirri, Derek L. Crawford, Regional Director of Government Affairs
President and Founder Altria - IL
Save A Life Foundation - IL Edward Crews FF/EMT-P Vice President,
Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois
Treasurer John Donleavy, President and CEO VELCO - VT
Mark Friedman, MD, FACEP FACP - IL
Douglas R. Browne, Darrell Patterson Safe Kids Coordinator - IL
Treasurer Bob Ryan Vice President Gov’t Affairs Comcast - IL
DBMD, Centers for Disease Control Jeffrey Schwartz, DO - IL
& Prevention - GA Dick Stipher Retired Assistant School Superintendent - IL

Secretary Medical Board Founding Members


Carol Spizzirri, R.N. President/Founder
Honorable Rita Mullins, Secretary Peter Safar M.D. ScD (Dec’d) (Father of CPR)
Mayor Palatine, IL, Exec. Bd, Safar Resuscitation Research Center -PA
U.S. Conference of Mayors, Henry Heimlich, M.D. ScD (Heimlich Maneuver)
Illinois Municipal League President Heimlich Institute - OH

Senior Advisor Medical Advisory Board


Mark Mitchell, D.O.,
Andrew Knapp, SALF Executive Director - WI
Executive Board Member EMS Medical Director Wheaton Franciscan Health Care St.
Vice Pres of Gov’t Relations Josephs - WI
Magellan Health Services - D.C. Steven Orebaugh, M.D., SALF Executive Director - PA
Anesthesiology Director South Side Hospital
Illinois SALF Spokesperson Ernesto A. Pretto, MD, MPH, SALF Executive Director - FL
Professor of Clinical Anesthesia Jackson Memorial Hospital -
Emil Jones, Jr. U of Miami
Illinois Senate President Robert W. Amler, MD Dean-
School of Public Health N.Y. Medical College
Sherlita Amler, MS FAAP, Health Commissioner, Putnam County
- NY

Sponsors
Abbott Laboratories * Adolph Kiefer and Assoc. * Ahlbeck & Company* Air Quality Maintenance * Alan and Sourixat
Thavisouk * Albert Fernando Contemporary Marketing * Albrecht Enterprises * Alexian Brothers Health System, Inc.
* Allstate Foundation * Altria Corporate Services, Inc. * American College of Osteopathic Emergency Physicians *
Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois* Bank One * Blue Cross Blue Shield * Briskman & Briskman * Browning Ferris
Industries * Cambridge Homes * Caraher Management * Charlotte-Mecklenberg Police * Chicago Cubs* Chicago
Wolves Pro Hockey * Chicagoland Speedway * Cisco Systems * City of Concord * City of Des Plaines * CLTV *
ComCast * Commonwealth Edison Co. * Competition Telecom Inc. * Corporate Treats * Cremation Services Inc.*
Currie Motors * Daily Herald * Dave Pate and Son’s * Degen & Rosato Construction Co. * Elkay * ESPN’s RPM
Tonight * Exelon - ComEd and PECO * Floran Technologies * GO ARMY Racing * Gurtz Electric * H & H Electric
* Hilton Hotels World Headquarters * Household - HELP Charity Committee * IL State Rep., Lee Daniels * Irwin
Andrew Porter Foundation * Italian American War Veterans #5 * Jade Gurss * Jay Howard Enterprises * John O.
Brill * John Spot/Tim Lintner * Kimball Hill Homes * Kintetsu Intl. Travel Consultants * Kraft Racing * Krispy Kreme
* Legends in Stone * Lowe’s Motor Speedway * McDonald’s Corporation * Midwest Equipment Rentals * Motorola
* NEXTEL Communications * North Carolina CERT * North Carolina Citizens Corps.* North Carolina Governor’s
Office * Northwest Display Corp * OCTAGON Marketing * PACTIV Corporation * Parkway Bank and Trust * Pro Star
* R. Carrozza Plumbing Co., Inc. * Racing Reflections* Red Bull Cheever Racing* Richard Petty Driving Experience
* Ronald McDonald Global * Ronald McDonald House Charities Chicago/Northern Indiana * Rosemont Exposition
Services * Rosemont Suites * Ryan and Ryan * SBC Communications * Stoffel Seals Corporation * Storino, Ramello
& Durkin * TCF Bank * United Airlines Foundation * Vahey Construction Co., Inc.* West Cook Municipal League *
Westpoint Stevens * William A. McGinty Company

i Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


History of Save A Life Foundation
The Save A Life Foundation (SALF), a not-for-
profit Foundation, was founded in 1993 by Carol
J Spizzirri, RN, after her 18 year old daughter,
Christina Jean Spizzirri, bled to death following
a hit and run incident on Labor Day, 1992. First
responders were not trained in life supporting
first aid (LSFA) skills, and consequently stood by
helplessly waiting for Emergency Medical Service
(EMS) to arrive some 30 minutes later.

In an effort to prevent this needless tragedy from happening again,


Spizzirri was responsible for the passage of an Illinois state mandate
requiring all police officers and fire fighters to be trained in LSFA
skills at their academies, with yearly refresher courses. Meanwhile,
Dr. Peter Safar, (father of CPR) and Dr. Henry Heimlich, (Heimlich
maneuver) approached Ms. Spizzirri to encourage her to train the
masses by training school children to make LSFA skills a part of our
culture of preparedness.

Both Doctors Safar and Heimlich joined SALF’s Medical Board and
assisted Spizzirri in creating age-appropriate courses to train school
age children in LSFA skills. To date SALF has trained nearly 2 million
children in seven states. Carol Spizzirri is widely respected as a
national authority on Pre-EMS and for her efforts of promoting EMS at
the local, state, and federal levels.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Conference of Mayors adopted the


Community Response Systems Initiative (CRSI) Resolution, named
in honor of Christina Spizzirri, committing their support to SALF as
a foundation for emergency preparing their communities. Thereafter
U.S. Senator Norm Coleman (MN), sponsored the “CRSI ACT” to
assist in this initiative.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report ii


Office of the Founder/President
SALF began its important work to prepare Bystanders
13 years ago. Many events have taken place since
then to profoundly change the way our society
views citizen preparedness.

The World Trade Center disaster brought home our


vulnerabilities to man-made disasters. Hurricane
Katrina re-emphasized that natural disasters are an
ongoing concern to every community. We continue to
work tirelessly to provide LSFA training to all Americans,
starting with our children.

This past year we began a number of initiatives at the local, state, and
national levels designed to provide a broader spectrum to vulnerable
populations. We continue to be vigilant to ensure that the Good
Samaritan Law protects those who do render aid.

Institute of Medicine’s “Future of EMS in the Healthcare System”


report on the state of our nation’s Emergency Medical Services
(EMS), further underscores the urgent need for a solid infrastructure
and national policy to provide for the growth and future of EMS. To
assure a seamless reaction between EMS and Pre-EMS, SALF
continues to expand its national partnerships with community based
and civic organizations focused on educating our young people. Our
legislative partners are working closely with us to develop baseline
standards that will allow us to expand nationwide.

As we embark upon many new challenges that face us, I would be


remiss if I did not take this opportunity to thank our many partners and
sponsors. With your continued support, we are certain to succeed in
our mission to save lives.

Carol J. Spizzirri

iii Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Table of Contents
History of Save A Life Foundation.....................................................ii
Message from Our Founder/President.............................................iii
Affiliations..........................................................................................v
Mission and Vision............................................................................1
Coverage Map..................................................................................1
Fast Facts.........................................................................................2
Program Overview............................................................................4
Youth ChalleNGe Partnership...........................................................6
Annual Performance Measurements................................................8
Achievement Percentage Rates.......................................................9
SALF Programs: A State View........................................................10
Corp. Sponsor Summaries - RMHC/CPS.......................................17
SALF Coalition................................................................................18
Corp. Sponsor Summary - Blue Cross Blue Shield - Illinois...........19
Girl Uses SALF Lesson to Save Friend..........................................20
Highlights & Accomplishments........................................................22
Third Bi-annual “Bridge The Gap Summit” 2005.............................26
Cost-Benefit Analysis......................................................................28
Appendix - Definition of Terms........................................................30
In Memory of Mayor Irwin A. Bock..................................................32

Copyright Save A Life Foundation 2006

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report iv


Salf Affiliations
Save A Life Foundation is a national affiliate of the following
organizations. These partners have proven valuable in our efforts to
train America’s children.

v Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Mission
The Mission of the Save A Life Foundation is to train and develop
“Bystanders”, especially children, as volunteers equipped with Life
Supporting First Aid Skills (LSFA) to aid in an emergency.

Vision
The vision of the Save A Life Foundation is to provide LSFA training to
citizens of every state and territory, making the ability and willingness
to sustain life a part of the fabric of American society, while protecting
those who render aid by vigilance over the Good Samaritan Laws.

MAP
Map shows SALF branches in California, Vermont, New York,
Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Florida (color code Youth
Challenge program states)

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 1


FAST FACTS
SALF Courses
• Age appropriate courses Kindergarten through grade 12
• Structured within existing school instruction (averages one
hour per student per year)
• Taught by local EMS professionals
• Provides empowering, basic skills and mentoring by
positive role models
• Free to school children
• Adult courses available for fee, with proceeds
supplementing free child training

SALF Program Design


• Program administered by Site Facilitator with
medical background
• Site Facilitator receives 20 hours of orientation
• Students are tested and data is processed and stored
for accountability
• Program oversight provided by SALF
• SALF provides orientation and screening of instructors
• Start-up mini-grants through SALF maybe available
for qualified recipients
• Local participation ensures relevance to
regional preparedness/training issues

SALF Eligibility Criteria


• Instructors must be EMT certified and posses a
current police background check
• Instructors receive a four hour orientation how to train
children and testing procedures
• Hosting sites must enter into a signed agreement
• Program sites must meet SALF Board of
Directors standards
• Program sites must meet sustainability requirements

2 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


SALF Statistics to Date
• 1,643,292 children trained
• 13 Branches/Satellites in seven states
• Average number of students 25 per class
• Controlled testing shows 97% percent retention and
57% percent attitude change as of 2006
• SALF Instructors provided 3,340,000 hours of service to
the community valued at $30,060,000
• Average EMS credit hours 12,800
• Average school teacher credit hours 6,800
• Federal and state funds contributes 77% of training
costs, while hosting sites provide a minimum of 23% of the
base cost
• 91% of funds are used for training, while 9% is used
for operating expenses

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 3


Program Overview
How Does SALF Affect EMS Professionals?
• Helps maintain skills proficiency
• Enhances EMS career with supplemental benefits,
including continuing education credit hours
• Works well with EMS schedule of “one day on, two
days off”
• Provides opportunity to
teach children valuable
skills to maintain life
until professionals arrive
• Improves community
relations
• Presents youth with
positive role models
and mentorship
• Promotes EMS careers among students

How Does SALF Affect Hospitals?


• Promotes health safety education to the community
• Provides additional community outreach avenues
• Supplements free training for children through on-site
or off-site adult for-fee courses (program can
become self-sufficient with various funding sources,
including grants and donations)
• Strengthens relationship between citizens, local
and state agencies
• Engages Medical Reserve Corps members as
SALF instructors

How Does SALF Affect Mayors?


• Promotes community preparedness citywide (Citizen
Corps/Medical Reserve Corps). Fosters cooperative
efforts between government, schools, and first responders
• Enhances value of EMS professionals to the community
• Opens additional grant-funding opportunities

4 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


• Promotes increased
involvement of business
community in mayor-
supported initiatives

How Does SALF Affect


Students and Schools?
• Students learn valuable
life long skills that could save a life
• Students will bring their new skills home to family members
and teach them what they learned in school
• Fosters a positive attitude toward helping others
• Time considerate to schools, courses average 25 students
per class and one hour per child per school year
• In-class teacher evaluation provides accountability of
SALF courses
• Web-based data collection provides accountability of
student skills retention
• Opportunity for teachers to be trained and receive
continuing education credits
• Mentoring is a critical aspect of the SALF program and
what sets SALF apart, especially those at-risk students.
Evidence is clear that the positive aspects of an EMS
provider translates their new skills and facilitates a
behavioral change to help those in need. The positive role
model also heightens the possibility of an EMS or
medical career

How Does SALF Affect the Business Community?


• Improves company-employee relations through
corporate sponsorships
• Increases ties to local community through improved
corporate citizenship
• Provides opportunity for paid employee training to offset
free children’s programs
• Provides additional avenues for corporate marketing, public
service advertisement to demonstrate its good will

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 5


How Does SALF Affect Citizens Corps and Medical
Reserve Corps?
• Promotes spirit of volunteerism
• Provides additional cooperative benefit opportunities
• Improves community preparedness through coordination
with other affiliate programs
• Provides valuable activities to keep members engaged

SALF Youth ChalleNGe Partnership

SALF Programs will be made


available to 29 Youth ChalleNGe
Academies in 33 states and Puerto
Rico as part of a partnership
agreement between SALF and the
U.S. National Guard Bureau

Earlier this year, SALF entered into an agreement to provide our


LSFA course to youth 16-18 as part of the National Youth ChalleNGe
program, which mentors and educates high school “at-risk” students.
Under the agreement, ChalleNGe’s Emergency Medical Technician
staff will be trained as SALF instructors to train cadets during the
residential phase of the program.

SALF initially established its first ChalleNGe partnership in Illinois at


Lincoln’s ChalleNGe Academy. Illinois was part of the original group of
pilot programs for Youth ChalleNGe in 1993 and has graduated

6 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


more than 8,000 cadets since its inception. SALF instructors will train
approximately 800 cadets this year, and nearly 8,000 nationally each
year as part of this ground breaking partnership.

SALF is in discussions with Civil Air Patrol to offer training to chapters


in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Under a national agreement more
than 27,000 CAP Cadets at 1,700 sites will receive LSFA training.
SALF continues to increase its ongoing training to Junior ROTC
cadets each year through existing programs in school systems
throughout the country..

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 7


Annual Performance Measurements

All SALF trained students are given a skills test to measure subject
matter knowledge. The test consists of 10 questions based on the age-
appropriate module. All results are stored in SALF’s data collection
system. Results and trends are studied to measure consistency of
instruction and seek ways to improve training delivery and results
while measuring the value these skills play in changing a child’s value
to help others.

Mentoring is an important aspect of the SALF program. A multi-


dimensional mentoring model is what sets SALF apart from other
youth-programs. Evidence is clear, that the positive aspects of youth
participating in a short, highly energized course, with those who utilize
these skills as a career, increase the student’s interest in the field of
EMS and are eager to follow their example when ever possible. By
working one on one with the school staff, SALF facilitators are aware
of any special needs, such as language barriers prior to scheduling
the class and assign appropriate local instructors to work with those
needing assistance.

8 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Program Achievement Percentage Rates

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 9


Of the targeted youth, 97% successfully retain the course skills after
three months. Each student reads each skill with the instructor, views
a demonstration, and is given a hands-on practical opportunity to
utilize skills. A testing score card is presented at the completion of
the course, with eight course skills related questions and two optional
questions to determine if the student gained life-altering value from
the course. The instructor gathers all completed test cards and the
teacher’s Class Evaluation Sheet before leaving the session. These
cards and evaluation sheets are returned to the hosting site for
processing. It has been demonstrated that 57% of those students
who complete the course have increased their willingness to help
others in need, where they would not have prior to the training.

The average cost per student completing the SALF training is $10
per session. The total cost includes all instructional material, clinical
practice equipment and supplies, the instructor supplemental benefits,
@ $1 per child student, testing and data collection processing, and
related support. There are currently SALF sites in 7 states. SALF’s
partnership with U.S. National Guard’s “Youth Challenge” program will
increase sites by 50% to 54 sites in 40 states within the next fiscal
year.

Save A Life Foundation’s continuing


efforts to educate and inform,
impact people’s lives every day. - IL
Senate President, Emil Jones
SALF State Spokesman

SALF Programs: A State View


Illinois’ SALF program has grown tremendously during the past
year, with seven new branches and satellites scheduled to open in

10 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


2006-07. The addition of the Lincoln’s ChalleNGe, Teen Reach, and
Civil Air Patrol have also added to the success of SALF’s growth.
Illinois legislators continue to provide their loyal support through
state funding. Illinois Senate President Emil Jones, SALF’s State
Spokesperson, has personally saved three lives over the past four
years using the Heimlich maneuver. “Funding for SALF is an important
tool in educating young people in the techniques of life saving” -IL
Senate President Emil Jones

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 11


Indiana has demonstrated tremendous potential for growth with
interest in the SALF training coming from all areas of the state. The
Youth ChalleNGe program is expected to begin operation in 2007,
further solidifying the base of support for the program.

12 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


The home state of SALF’s mentor and medical board member, the
late Dr. Peter Safar, Pennsylvania continues to be fertile ground for
SALF’s training programs. A pilot program in the Philadelphia Schools
will begin in the 2006-07 school year, training 5,000 students as part
of its Jr. ROTC and Driver Education programs. The Philadelphia
Schools Emergency Preparedness Committee and schools CEO,
Paul Vallas has been instrumental in bringing SALF training to one of
the nation’s largest school systems.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 13


Wisconsin has been steadily establishing itself as the premiere
SALF program for its creativity and dedication to training its children.
Milwaukee’s St Joseph Hospital acts as the main branch for
operations, training over 12,000 children last year. In upstate Green
Bay, a pilot program expects to attract surrounding communities and
additional corporate sponsorships next year.

14 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Florida has produced an abundance of support for SALF training.
The Miami Florida Branch through the Mayor’s office, as part of his
mentoring program, will provide for greater numbers of children to be
trained in Miami-Dade County. A new affiliation with Jackson hospital
will position the SALF program to participate in research projects.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 15


Expansion of the SALF training should continue at a rapid pace
during 2006-07. In addition to opening new branches in New York,
Vermont, and California, SALF anticipates new branch locations in
Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. With the SALF/Youth ChalleNGe
Partnership Initiative, training could begin in as many as ten states
during the initial phase, with 33 states possible under the program.

16 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Ronald McDonald House Charities Global &
Chicago Public Schools
In September 2005, Ronald McDonald House Charities Global
and Chicago Public Schools collaborated to award the Save A Life
Foundation a $50,000 grant. This grant provided Basic Life Supporting
First Aid training to 5,500 fourth and fifth-grade school children in 50
Chicago Public Schools.

The chosen schools were located throughout all areas of the city, from
the far south side to the far northwest side and all points in between.
Students from all walks of life were given the opportunity to participate
in classes that impact not only their lives, but that radically impact the
lives of others as they became trained to save a life.

Mr. Ken Barun, President and CEO of Ronald McDonald House


Charities; Mr. Paul Clark, Board President of Ronald McDonald
House Charities; and Mr. Arne Duncan, CEO of Chicago Public
Schools recognized the opportunity to improve the lives of children
and dramatically change the nation’s preparedness landscape. We
appreciate their ongoing commitment, and salute them for having the
foresight to recognize the need for this training.

We would be remiss if we did not include a big, “Thank You” to all of


the school principals, nurses, event coordinators, faculty, and staff
who willingly opened their classrooms to SALF and who worked with
us to ensure a successful training experience for their students. We
look forward to working with them again next year.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 17


Save A Life Foundation Coalition
Since 1996 SALF has been awarded appropriations through the Illinois
Department of Public Health. Since 2000 SALF has received federal
funding through Centers for Disease Control. Through the generosity
of private donations SALF has been able to offset the growing demand
for it’s training. The events of September 11, 2001, Hurricane Katrina
in 2005, and the increasing threat of terrorism, SALF has recieved
requests for its training that exceed current resources. To address the
increased demand, the SALF Coalition formed.

As a SALF Coalition Member, contributors will be linked to SALF’s


web site. Coalition members will be featured in SALF’s publications
throughout the year. Premiere Coalition members will have the option
of being included in SALFTOWN Kid’s interactive website which
features educational activities. Other membership options include:

• Adopt-A-School - sponsor the training ($10.00 per child


covers the cost of training, books, equipment
and instructors)

• Direct Contribution - of any amount through our Coalition


Web page guarantees your generous donation will support
SALF in all our effort to save lives.

18 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


In December 2005, BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois awarded the Save
A Life Foundation a $15,000 grant to train 1,500 school children in
six Chicago Public Schools in Basic Life Supporting First Aid skills.
Each of the schools chosen has a student body representative of the
diversity within the Chicago Public School system. Students were
given the opportunity to participate in these educational and relevant
First Aid training classes.

Mr. Raymond F. McCaskey, President and CEO of BlueCross


BlueShield, Healthcare Division for Illinois, recognized the opportunity
to improve the lives of children living in our great city and selflessly
secured needed funding to make the vision a reality. We thank him
and Ms. Anita Pluta for their commitment in serving their communities.
We also salute them for having the foresight to recognize the need for
this training.

Thank you to all of the school principals, nurses, event coordinators,


faculty, and staff who willingly opened their classrooms to SALF and
worked with us to ensure a successful training experience for their
students. We look forward to working with you again next year.

Through our combined efforts, we have been able to make a positive


impact in the lives of the 1,547 children that were trained. More
importantly, they are now equipped to act responsibly and decisively
when faced with an actual emergency.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 19


Girl uses SALF lesson to save friend’s life

Taylor Tosovsky and Rachel Wiesehan have been best friends since
kindergarten. But now their friendship means something more. Both
girls, who are 10-years-old, are students at St. Bonafice and play on
the Metro United soccer team. Last weekend the girls had a match in
Jefferson City, Mo. Taylor and another friend walked to get some ice.
When the two were walking back, she put a piece of ice in her mouth
and it lodged in her throat. At first, Taylor’s friend thought she was
playing, but she was choking. Her friend called out for help and help
came in a small, brown-haired, big-eyed, little girl. Rachel remembered
the steps she had been taught in the Save A Life assembly she had
attended at school the week before. The fireman had showed Rachel
and her fellow classmates how to properly give the Heimlich Maneuver
and how to perform CPR.

“I heard people yelling and I ran out in the hall,” Wiesehan said. “I
just started giving her the Heimlich, I didn’t really even think about it.”
Rachel helped save Taylor’s life and she learned how by the Save A
Life program.

The program is now offered in schools all across the United States.
Locally, the program is administered at St. Mary’s, Trinity School
and St. Bonafice. Captain Tom Dannenberg of the Edwardsville
Fire Department said the program varies with the age group. “The
kindergarten class is a half hour and teaches the basics,” Dannenberg
said. “They learn how to recognize an emergency and when it is safe
to help and how to call 9-1-1.” He said the younger students also learn

20 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


the “look, listen, feel” move for breathing. The older students go up
to a two hour session and discuss the Heimlich, CPR and how to
help someone if they are bleeding. “This is a great program. We don’t
get a lot of chances to talk to the kids,” Dannenberg said. “We really
appreciate the schools letting us come in and show the kids safety. It
just proves that young children can be taught how to save a life. We
want people to be involved as safely as they can and know the steps
on how to safely help in an emergency.”
Eric Brandmeyer the EMS coordinator of Anderson Hospital and the
Save A Life Director for local schools said the girls are extraordinary.
“I have submitted them for the Save A Life Tree of Life Award,”
Brandmeyer said. “It takes the opportunity to give kids the recognition
for saving a life, and that is definitely the case with the two girls.”
Brandmeyer also said the program has benefited greatly for children
in the community. He explained the program is available to all schools
within the Anderson Hospital area and is free.

Jen Hengehold, the physical education teacher for kindergarten


through eighth grade at St. Bonafice, said the program has become a
staple within the school.
“This is the second year we have had the program and the second time
something good happened because of what was taught,” Hengehold
said. “I am very happy we have this program and I am very, very proud
of my students’ ability to respond to serious emergencies.”
Last year, some of the children that attend St. Bonafice were building
a bike ramp. One child was severely injured from a shovel slicing open
the back of his leg. The other children had recently went through the
Save A Life program at school and knew how to apply pressure to the
wound.
As far as the girls go, Rachel is remaining humble about her new
found celebrity status.
“I don’t really think I am famous, but some people think I am.”
And will Taylor ever eat ice again?
“I hate ice,” she said. - Marci Winters-McLaughlin/Intelligencer

(c)Edwardsville Intelligencer 2006

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 21


Highlights & Accomplishments
National Highlights

U.S. Department of Homeland Security - a natural partnership


created by existing philosophy, expertise, and SALF’s core
competencies in bystander citizen preparedness. SALF’s efforts to
prepare citizens as bystanders is in keeping with DHS mission to
better inform, educate and prepare average citizens to cope with a
catastrophic man-made or natural disaster. SALF continues to work
closely with Citizens Corps and Medical Reserve Corps at the local
and national levels. For the third year SALF was featured in U.S.
Homeland Security’s Annual Report for its contribution in conjunction
with SALF month during National Preparedness Month.

National Executive Board - restructured in 2003, the National


Executive Board of Directors appointed five members, President,
Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer, who are
responsible for developing and overseeing all policies, redefining
and establishing protocols to accommodate expansion and structure
of the organization. Andrew Knapp, a former aide to Health and
Human Services (HHS) Secretary Tommy Thompson, was appointed
to the National Advisory Board in early 2006. His experience has
strengthened SALF’s understanding on a variety of issues including
homeland security. Knapp also served on Secretary Thompson’s
Budget Council. Currently he serves as Vice-President of Government
Relations for Magellan Health Services.

National Affiliations - By strengthening ties to our not-for-profit


partners such as the U.S. Conference of Mayors, state municipal
leagues, League of Cities, county governments, emergency
departments, county health departments, community colleges and
school districts, SALF has positioned itself to meet the national
challenges of preparing our youth to become emergency active
citizens. Those organizations with similar interests have established
a mutually beneficial non-threatening understanding of our goals and
philosophy and have served to solidify our infrastructure.

22 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


New Strategic Partnerships - Over the years partnerships with,
Chicago Public Schools, Ronald McDonald House Charities Global,
Blue Cross Blue Shield Illinois and Pennsylvania, CBS Outdoor,
VELCO, Kimball Hill Homes Foundation, Comcast, EXELON, and
others have proven beneficial and are vital to our continued growth.
Our long time corporate supporters are greatly appreciated for their
generosity. Their belief in SALF has achieved making a life saving
difference for our children. This coming year new alliances will begin
with several public and private partners whose goals and objectives
closely compliment those of the Foundation. They will include the
Philadelphia Public Schools, Protecting America, American Association
of Community Colleges, Illinois Community College Board.

Save A Life Month Proclamations - 28 State Governors, and


2,501 municipal leaders from across the U.S. and Puerto Rico have
proclaimed SALF month for September 2005. This is an increase of
over 400% since 1993. The effort of state and local governments to
encourage citizens to become emergency prepared continues to be
an intergral part of our national visioin.

Founder/President Recognized - Illinois Resolution HR305,


sponsored by State Representative Lou Lang, and passed
unanimously in the House of Representatives. The resolution
recognized Carol J. Spizzirri, SALF’s President and Founder for
her work and the accomplishments of SALF since 1993 in training
children of Illinois to be ready to act in an emergency. SALF’s training
has resulted in many lives being saved by students who received the
SALF training. Spizzirri has served on numerous committees and
boards in 2005-06 including:
• AHA (American Heart Association) National First Aid
Science Advisory Board
• Ad Hoc Coalition to Save Lives Through Public Access
To Defibrillation
• Appointed NY Medical College, Adjunct Professor
• Illinois Homeland Security Task Force

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 23


• National U.S. Homeland Security’s Citizen Corps
Council member
• California Homeland Security-Citizen Corps
Council member
• IOM (Institute of Medicine) Committee on the Future of
Emergency Care in the U.S. Health System
• CDC (Centers for Disease Control) Acute Care Research
Agenda Steering Committee

IL State Highlights

Illinois Funding Support - In response to the increasing demand


statewide for SALF training, Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich,
recognized the importance of emergency preparing our children
by including SALF in his 2006 budget. This action by the Governor
demonstrates his commitment to the children of Illinois and to the
continuation of the SALF program.

Illinois Municipal League - (IML) made an important contribution to


their support of SALF by providing a web portal on the IML web site
to promote SALF and its community activities with IML members. This
partnership has proven successful in stimulating mayors to adapt the
program statewide. Ken Alderson, Executive Director of IML, recently
joined SALF’s Illinois State Advisory Board.

Illinois Teen Reach - A youth-oriented program established through


the Illinois Department of Human Services, has collaborated with
SALF to provide training to many of its 126 statewide programs. Teen
REACH (Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope)
offers positive services and activities for youth between the ages of 6
and 17 during non-school hours. Teen REACH has helped thousands
of kids stay out of trouble and learn to enjoy life, and soon how to save
a life. The SALF trained youths are provided a positive mentor/role
model relationship by SALF Instructors, and some have expressed an
interest in the EMS profession.

24 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Internal Affairs

Reorganization - A new operational structure was implemented


this year at SALF Headquarters. By redefining and combining job
functions and hiring professional staff in strategic functional areas,
the Foundation seeks to create a seamless work plan and customer
service oriented environment. As the Foundation prepares for
immediate and long-term growth, it is our goal to provide the highest
level of professionalism to our stakeholders. An Illinois State Director
was appointed early in 2006 at SALF’s Springfield office, to develop
new and monitor existing sites and work closely with our state
partners.

Technology Upgrades - have begun with an aggressive approach


to moving our education materials to an on-line system. Policy and
procedure manuals, marketing, and other useful materials are being
provided on a web-based system allowing our Branches and Satellites
easier access. Routine data will be updated and transferred more
efficiently, as will training statistics and test results. SALF’s goal is to
streamline internal systems system further by continuing to develop
an interactive web base infrastructure as more SALF sites have
access to the latest technology.

SALFTOWN USA - Is a much-anticipated portal to SALF’s virtual


learning capabilities for elementary school children is now only a
click away. The learning opportunities for children to understand
emergency services will be greatly enhanced as children K-6th
grades refresh their newly learned life saving skills with the assistance
of SALF’s mascot’s “Perry Medic” and “EMy-Tech”. SALFTOWN’s
goal is to illustrate through an interactive training vehicle, that children
will discover is both fun and educational, reassuring them they can
actually make a life saving difference.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 25


Third Biannual “Bridge the Gap Summit”
2005
April 28th, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont,
Illinois SALF hosted a one-day consensus panel meeting on
developing guidelines for a National Pre-Emergency Medical Service
(Pre-EMS) Response Team represented by a 21-member panel
assembly comprised of top federal, state, and local administration
officials, public Health experts, corporate executives, mayors,
emergency response managers, first responders, and school health
and safety supervisors. Panelist were separated into three focus
groups 1) Pre-EMS for Schools, 2) Pre-EMS for the Community, and
3) The Future of EMS.

The Summit was opened by SALF Illinois State Spokesman


Senate President Emil Jones, emceed was Dr. Mark Mitchell, D.O.,
Emergency Room Medical Director, St. Joseph Regional Medical
Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with guest speakers, Dr. Henry
Heimlich, M.D., ScD, Heimlich Institute, John E. Jones Jr., Deputy
Director of the National Weather Service, Lt. April D. Kidd, Deputy
Director, Cortez Trotter, EMTP, Fire Commissioner, Chicago Fire
Department, Arne Duncan, CEO Chicago Public Schools, and Robert
Colangelo, Branch Chief, FEMA Region V.
Moderators included: Honorable Rita Mullins, Mayor of Palatine,
Illinois and Ernesto Pretto, M.D., Professor of Clinical Anesthesiology,
University of Miami, Jackson Memorial Hospital, Fmr. President of
WADEM.

Issues presented and recommendations:

EMS and school officials need to develop a stronger partnership and


coordinate pre-emergency response plans that utilize off-duty EMS
personnel as instructors to train schoolchildren (grades K-12) and
staff how to respond to medical emergencies.

EMS and school officials should analyze existing resources, limitations


and needs within a community and involve the entire school district,

26 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


the emergency response community, and family organizations in pre-
emergency planning and post event evaluation.

To improve a community’s health and safety during emergencies


an integrated EMS system of training citizens, first responders,
paramedics and hospitals must be developed.

Evaluate and execute the role of the federal, state, and local agencies,
organizations and individuals within a community who affect Pre-EMS
response plans.

To increase the survival rate among victims of Sudden Cardiac Arrest


Citizens need to be trained in basic life-supporting first aid skills,
including CPR and First Aid and schools among with public buildings
should be equipped with Automatic External Defibrillators (AED).

Due to the nation’s lack of measuring response time, it is uncertain to


know approximately how long it will take for EMS to arrive to a scene
after 9-1-1 has been called.

According to a USA Today investigation, only nine of the fifty largest


cities track their response times. And, only an estimated 6% to 10%
of sudden cardiac arrest victims receive medical attention within the
estimated time of survival, while the other 90-94% die.

It has been proven that when a bystander performs CPR prior to


medical arrival, a victim’s chance of surviving a sudden cardiac arrest
triples.

The focus of the 2005 “Bridge the Gap” Summit, highlighted “Best
Practices”, to improve the quality of care during emergencies and to
make EMS an integrated system of trained citizens, first responders,
paramedics and the hospital.

The event ended by honoring Mayor Manny Diaz, Miami, Florida


for incorporating Pre-EMS as part of his “Mentoring Program” for all
Miami school students and strengthening his EMS infrastructure.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 27


Cost Benefit Analysis
Return on Investment (ROI)

The ROI is a key area requiring little effort for big results in justifying
and validating a program. A program is cost-effective if, on the
basis of analysis of competing alternatives, it is determined to have
the lowest costs for a given amount of benefits. Cost-effectiveness
analysis is appropriate whenever it is unnecessary or impractical to
consider the dollar value of the benefits provided by the alternatives
under consideration. Since there is no other child program such as
SALF’s to compare to, it was necessary to provide a dollar amount
and a percentage value based on those figures for a valuable
program. SALF:
• Identifies the results of its training by a simple
questionnaire recognizing measurement of skills
retention level and any attitude change. (97% skills and
57% increased willingness to aid another).
• Seeks feedback from all those trained and who witnessed
the training
• Uses only EMS providers as Instructors for
quality assurance.
• Courses defined by those medical experts who invented
the procedures.
• Provides cost and time effectiveness

SALF’s courses have demonstrated a benefit of an estimated 10%


savings equal to $3.5 million, or more, a year in medical care costs
related to death and disabling injures. Based on A Report to Congress
1989 “Cost of Injury in US” Division of Injury Epidemiologist and
Control, Center for Environmental Health and Injury Control

For every $1 invested, the benefit of SALF’s training provides a


savings to society by a return of 80% confidence level not including
mitigating pain and suffering by those who experience the loss of a
loved one or an employee.

28 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


• Based on perceived value of $100,000
• Multiplying original dollars estimated by level of confidence
$100,000 (benefit of training)
x .80 (confidence factor)
$80,000 (discounted benefit)
• Subtracting cost of program from discounted benefit:
$80,000 (discounted benefit)
$25,000 (cost of 2,500 students)
$55,000 (profit)
• Divide profit by cost of program:
5,000 / $25,000 = 2.2
• Multiply this figure by 100 to obtain a return on investment
(ROI) percentage value for the program relative to input:
100
x 2.2
220% (estimate of value of program - this is
believed to be conservative)

Accordingly, your social investment of $100,000 will have an impact


of $220,000

Source info: J. Phillip, author of “Handbook of Training Evaluation And


Measurement Methods”:1997 FY-2005 Annual Budget

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 29


Appendix: Definition of Terms
AED - Automated External Defibrillator an electronic battery operated
device used to electrically stimulate the heart by rendering a series of
“shocks” to a person whose heart functions have ceased.

CAP -Civil Air Patrol consists of cadets age 14-18 whose interests
include aviation. Adult component comprises search and rescue
augmenters to the Air Force mission.

CDC - Centers for Disease Control and prevention, headquartered


in Atlanta, GA

CERT - Community Emergency Response teams providing local


training and Citizens Corps

CITIZENS CORPS - National network of Department of Homeland


Security sponsored councils of local citizen who plan train for a role in
disasters and emergencies

CPR - Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation - the manual stimulation of the


heart muscle to restore heart and blood pumping functions.

CRSI - Community Response Systems Initiative, named in honor of


“Chrissy” or Christina Spizzirri, consists of a resolution unanimously
adapted by the U.S. Council of Mayors in 2006 to encourage the
training of citizens, especially children. A companion CRSI Act Bill has
been presented by federal legislators to provide funding for training
for municipalities

DHS - Department of Homeland Security

DOD - Department of Defense

EMS - Emergency Medical Services, includes EMT, Paramedic,


hospital personnel involved in emergency life sustaining, life saving,
transport of sick, injured

30 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


FEMA - Federal Emergency Management Agency responsible for
coordination and funding of disaster response and recovery efforts
declared by the President under the Robert T. Stafford Act

HHS - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

IOM - Institute of Medicine

JROTC - Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps, incorporates high


school aged students in a military style service organization

LSFA - Life Supporting First Aid, includes scene safety, bleed control,
rescue breathing, Heimlich maneuver, CPR and use of Automated
External Defibrillator (AED) as defined by Doctors Peter Safar, Henry
Heimlich, and RN Carol Spizzirri

MEDICAL RESERVE CORPS - Medical professionals organized to


respond to emergencies (see Citizens Corps)

NHTSA - National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Pre-EMS - Services rendered to the ill or injured by the general public


“Bystander” prior to arrival of Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
personnel.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 31


In Memory of Mayor Irwin (Irv) A. Bock

Hanover Park, Illinois

Mayor Irwin Bock was a rare individual who motivated everyone who
met him throughout his 69 years. His untimely passing on March 9,
2006, saddened many hearts, especially those here at the Save A Life
Foundation.

For virtually a lifetime, Bock was a pillar in his community and country
putting the welfare of the people as his first priority. Throughout his
distinguished military and political career of 37 years, Bock’s ambition
was to make his community a safe haven. He was elected Village
President of Hanover Park, IL in 1997, where he served until his
death.

Hon. Bock, a graduate of Loop Jr. College, Chicago, served in the U.S.
Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Coast Guard. His distinguished
career also included service as a Chicago police officer and Crew
Chief for the Hanover Park Fire Department.

His desire to serve the community resulted in his appointment as


SALF’s Vice President of Operations in 2000. Shortly after 9-11, Bock
and Palatine, Illinois Mayor Rita Mullins represented SALF at the U.S.
Conference of Mayors meeting in Washington DC. Both noted, the
important role the bystander plays in responding to emergencies and
urged all Mayors to support Save A Life Foundation activities in their
municipalities.

32 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Bock stepped up his efforts to emergency prepare his and surrounding
communities, by encouraging Alexian Brothers Health Network, to
form a partnership with SALF to train the masses. Bock became the
Branch Executive Director of the SALF/Alexian branch in 2003. “Our
initial goal is to train 50,000 children in life saving techniques across
the northwest suburbs over the next five years, to save lives,” Bock
told the Hanover Park Examiner in May 2004.

Bock will be remembered for his grace, dignity and decades of


accomplishments. Mayors throughout the nation will always remember
Honorable Bock’s commitment to empower citizens, starting with
children, with life saving skills.

The entire SALF family extends our most sincere condolences to


the family and friends of Hanover Park Village Mayor Bock. “Irv was
my friend, confidante, and a valued leader whose character was
strengthened by his lovely wife, Carol. To know him was to know a
generous humanitarian who brightened the hearts of many,”- Carol
Spizzirri, Pres/Founder SALF.

We will miss him, but are assured he’ll continue promoting SALF from
the other side. “Good-bye for now Irv”.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 33


DIVIDER
SALF
Save A Life Foundation

Annual Report
2007-2008
Board of Directors
Executive Board Advisory Board
Ken Alderson fmr. Ex Director, Illinois Municipal League
President Derek L. Crawford, Regional Director Kraft - IL
Carol J. Spizzirri, Edward Crews FF/EMT-P Vice President,
President and Founder Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois
John Donleavy, President and CEO VELCO - VT
Treasurer Mark Friedman, MD, FACEP FACP - IL
Douglas R. Browne, Darrell Patterson Safe Kids Coordinator - IL
Treasurer Bob Ryan Vice President Gov’t Affairs Comcast - IL
Jeffrey Schwartz, DO - IL
Secretary Dick Stipher Retired Assistant School Superintendent - IL
Honorable Rita Mullins,
Secretary First Responder Comittee
Sergeant Major Thomas
John Allen
Medical Advisory Board
David Barrabee
Mark Mitchell, D.O., FACOED
Sid Blustain
Medical Director, Emergency Consultants, Inc. Mike Cromis
Steven Orebaugh, M.D., Col. Russell A. Gallagher
Anesthesiology Director South Side Hospital, PA Michael Gorman
Ernesto A. Pretto, MD, MPH, - FL William Justiz
Professor of Clinical Anesthesia Bob Kenny
Jackson Memorial Hospital - U of Miami Chief McHenry
Gary Taylor
Robert W. Amler, MD Dean-
Rita Herrington, RN, EMTP
School of Public Health N.Y. Medical College
Anne Johnson, M.D.
Sherlita Amler, MS FAAP, Health Commissioner, David Jones
Putnam County - NY Dr. Mark Mitchell
Col. Jill Morgenthaler
Dr. Chris Nollette
Dr. Ernesto Pretto
Sen. Martin Sandoval
Greg Scott
Mayor Steve Stockton
Katonja K. Webb

Sponsors
Abbott Laboratories * Adolph Kiefer and Assoc. * Ahlbeck & Company* Air Quality Maintenance * Alan and Sourixat
Thavisouk * Albert Fernando Contemporary Marketing * Albrecht Enterprises * Alexian Brothers Health System, Inc.
* Allstate Foundation * Altria Corporate Services, Inc. * American College of Osteopathic Emergency Physicians *
Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois* Bank One * Blue Cross Blue Shield * Briskman & Briskman * Browning Ferris
Industries * Bulklift * Cambridge Homes * Caraher Management * Charlotte-Mecklenberg Police * Chicago Cubs*
Chicago Wolves Pro Hockey * Chicagoland Speedway * Cisco Systems * City of Concord * City of Des Plaines *
CLTV * ComCast * Commonwealth Edison Co. * Competition Telecom Inc. * Corporate Treats * Cremation Services
Inc.* Cross Containers * Currie Motors * Daily Herald * Dave Pate and Son’s * Degen & Rosato Construction Co. *
Dundee Landscape * Elkay * ESPN’s RPM Tonight * Exelon - ComEd and PECO * Floran Technologies * GO ARMY
Racing * Gurtz Electric * Hexion * H & H Electric * Hilton Hotels World Headquarters * Household - HELP Charity
Committee * IL State Rep., Lee Daniels * Irwin Andrew Porter Foundation * Italian American War Veterans #5 * Jade
Gurss * Jay Howard Enterprises * John O. Brill * John Spot/Tim Lintner * Kimball Hill Homes * Kintetsu Intl. Travel
Consultants * Kraft Racing * Krispy Kreme * Legends in Stone * Lowe’s Motor Speedway * McDonald’s Corporation *
Midwest Equipment Rentals * Motorola * NEXTEL Communications * North Carolina CERT * North Carolina Citizens
Corps.* North Carolina Governor’s Office * Northwest Display Corp * OCTAGON Marketing * Otto Engineering *
Partner of R.H. Partners 1, LLC. * PACTIV Corporation * Performance Stamping * Parkway Bank and Trust * Pro Star
* Quiltmaster * R. Carrozza Plumbing Co., Inc. * Racing Reflections* Red Bull Cheever Racing* Richard Petty Driving
Experience * Ronald McDonald Global * Ronald McDonald House Charities Chicago/Northern Indiana * Rosemont
Exposition Services * Rosemont Suites * Ryan and Ryan * SBC Communications * Spring Hill Center CCII * Stanley
Machine * Stoffel Seals Corporation * Storino, Ramello & Durkin * TCF Bank * United Airlines Foundation * Vahey
Construction Co., Inc.* West Cook Municipal League * Westpoint Stevens * William A. McGinty Company

i Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


History of Save A Life Foundation
The Save A Life Foundation (SALF, a not-for-
profit Foundation, was founded in 1993 by Carol
J. Spizzirri, after the death of her 18 year old
daughter, Christina, who died following a car
accident on Labor Day, 1992. First responders
were not trained in life supporting first aid (LSFA)
skills, and consequently stood by helplessly waiting
for emergency medical service (EMS) providers to
arrive.

In an effort to prevent this needless tragedy from happening again,


Spizzirri was responsible for the passage of an Illinois state mandate
requiring all police officers and fire fighters to be trained in LSFA
skills prior to graduating from their academies and receive yearly
refresher courses. Meanwhile, Spizzirri approached Illinois Senator
Richard Durbin, who passed an appropriations bill to pay for that
training.

Soon after, numerous emergency medical experts, including Peter


Safar M.D. (Father of CPR and Freedom House), approached Ms.
Spizzirri to encourage her to train the masses, starting with school
children, to make LSFA a part of their adult culture.

Working together, Ms. Spizzirri created age-appropriate courses to


teach children (K-12) LSFA skills by utilities local EMS providers,
who use these same skills daily, as Instructors. To date SALF has
trained nearly 2 million children in thirty three (33) states and Puerto
Rico. Spizzirri is widely respected as an authority of Pre-EMS and
promoting EMS issues at the local, state, and federal levels.

In 2007 the U.S. Conference of Mayor adopted the Community


Response Systems Initiative (CRSI) Resolution, named in honor
of her daughter Christina, committing their support of SALF as a
foundation for emergency preparing school age children. Thereafter,
U.S. Senator Norm Coleman (MN), sponsored and passed the “CRSI
ACT” to fund this initiative nation wide.

Spizzirri also met with U.S. Senator Barack Obama (IL), regarding
the fragmented influstructure of EMS, resulting in Senator Obama
sponsoring Senate Bill 1873 which appropriates emergency medical
service much needed funding.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report ii


Office of the Founder/President
SALF began its important work to prepare Bystanders 14 years
ago. Many events have taken place since then to
profoundly change the way our society views citizen
preparedness.

The World Trade Center disaster brought home our


vulnerabilities to man-made disasters. Hurricane
Katrina re-emphasized that natural disasters
are an ongoing concern to every community. We
continue to work tirelessly to provide LSFA training to
all Americans, starting with our children.

This past year we began a number of initiatives at the local, state, and
national levels designed to provide a broader spectrum to vulnerable
populations. We continue to be vigilant to ensure that the Good
Samaritan Law protects those who do render aid.

Institute of Medicine’s “Future of EMS in the Healthcare System”


report on the state of our nation’s Emergency Medical Services
(EMS), further underscores the urgent need for a solid infrastructure
and national policy to provide for the growth and future of EMS. To
assure a seamless reaction between EMS and Pre-EMS, SALF
continues to expand its national partnerships with community based
and civic organizations focused on educating our young people. Our
legislative partners are working closely with us to develop baseline
standards that will allow us to expand nationwide.

As we embark upon many new challenges that face us, I would be


remiss if I did not take this opportunity to thank our many partners and
sponsors. With your continued support, we are certain to succeed in
our mission to save lives.

Carol J. Spizzirri

iii Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Table of Contents
History of Save A Life Foundation.....................................................ii
Message from Our Founder/President.............................................iii
SALF Affiliations..................................................................................v
Mission, Vision and Map...................................................................1
Fast Facts.........................................................................................2
Program Overview...............................................................................4
Program Achievement Percentage Rates...........................................6
Annual Performance Measurements................................................7
SALF Programs: A State View...........................................................8
Youth ChalleNGe Partnership...........................................................9
Girl Uses SALF Lesson to Save Friend..........................................11
Highlights & Accomplishments........................................................13
Carpentersville Unanimously Passes Save A Life Resolution........14
Save A Life Foundation Coalition.....................................................15
Cost-Benefit Analysis.......................................................................16
In Memory of Jan Kelley....................................................................18

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report iv


SALF Affiliations
These partners have proven valuable in our efforts to train America’s
children:

v Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Mission
The Mission of the Save A Life Foundation is training and developing
“Bystanders”, especially children, as volunteers equipped with Life
Supporting First Aid Skills (LSFA) to aid in an emergency, while
promoting the value of EMS for a streamline life saving reaction.

Vision
The vision of the Save A Life Foundation is to provide LSFA training
to child of every state and territory, making the ability and willingness
to sustain life a part of the fabric of American society, while protecting
those who render aid by vigilance over the Good Samaritan Laws.

MAP
Map shows SALF in 30 states plus Puerto Rico.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 1


FAST FACTS
SALF Courses
• Age appropriate courses Kindergarten through grade 12
• Structured within existing school instruction (averages one
hour per student per year)
• Taught by local emergency medical Service (EMS)
professionals
• Provides empowering, basic skills and mentoring by
positive role models
• Free to school children
• Adult courses available for fee, with proceeds
supplementing free child training

SALF Program Design


• Program administered by Site Facilitator with
medical background
• Site Facilitator receives 20 hours of orientation
• Students are tested and data is processed and stored
for accountability
• Program oversight provided by SALF
• SALF provides orientation and screening of instructors
• Start-up mini-grants through SALF maybe available
for qualified recipients
• Local participation ensures relevance to
regional preparedness/training issues

SALF Eligibility Criteria


• Instructors must be First Responder certified or higher and
posses a current police background check
• Instructors receive a four hour orientation how to train
children and testing procedures
• Hosting sites must enter into a signed agreement
• Program sites must meet SALF Board of
Directors standards
• Program sites must meet sustainability requirements

2 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


SALF Statistics to Date
• 1,647,385 children trained
• 9 Branches/Satellites in four states
• 34 Youth ChalleNGe sites in 29 states and Puerto Rico
• Average number of students 25 per class
• Controlled testing shows 97% percent retention and
57% percent attitude change as of 2008
• Average EMS credit hours 12,800
• Average school teacher credit hours 6,800
• Federal and state funds contributes 77% of training
costs, while hosting sites provide a minimum of 23% of the
base cost
• 91% of funds are used for training, while 9% is used
for operating expenses

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 3


Program Overview
How Does SALF Benefit EMS Professionals?
• Helps maintain skills proficiency
• Enhances EMS career with supplemental benefits, including
continuing education credit
hours
• Works well with EMS
schedule
• Provides opportunity to
teach children valuable
skills to maintain life
until professionals arrive
• Improves community
relations
• Presents youth with positive role models and mentorship
• Promotes EMS careers among students

How Does SALF Benefit Hospitals?


• Promotes health safety education to the community
• Provides additional community outreach avenues
• Supplements free training for children through on-site or off-site
adult for-fee courses (program can become self-sufficient with
various funding sources, including grants and donations)
• Strengthens relationship between citizens, local
and state agencies
• Engages Medical Reserve Corps members as
SALF instructors

How Does SALF Benefit Mayors?


• Promotes community preparedness citywide (Citizen Corps/
Medical Reserve Corps). Fosters cooperative efforts between
government, schools, and first responders
• Enhances value of EMS professionals to the community
• Opens additional grant-funding opportunities
• Promotes increased involvement of business community in
mayor supported initiatives

4 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


How Does SALF Benefit Students and Schools?
• Students learn valuable life long skills that could save a life
• Students will bring their new skills home to family members and
teach them what they learned in school
• Fosters a positive attitude toward helping others
• Time considerate to schools, courses average 25 students per
class and one to one and a half hours per school year.
• In-class teacher evaluation provides accountability of SALF
courses
• Opportunity for teachers to be trained and receive
continuing education credits
• Mentoring is a critical aspect of the SALF program and
what sets SALF apart, especially those at-risk students.
Evidence is clear that the positive aspects of an EMS
provider translates their new skills and facilitates a behavioral
change to help those in need. The positive role model also
heightens the possibility of a student choosing an EMS or
medical career

How Does SALF Benefit the Business Community?


• Improves company-employee relations through
corporate sponsorships
• Increases ties to local community through improved
corporate citizenship
• Provides opportunity for paid employee training to offset
free children’s programs
• Provides additional avenues for corporate marketing, public
service advertisement to demonstrate its good will

How Does SALF Benefit Citizens Corps and Medical


Reserve Corps?
• Promotes spirit of volunteerism
• Provides additional cooperative benefit opportunities
• Improves community preparedness through coordination
with other affiliate programs
• Provides valuable activities to keep members engaged

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 5


Program Achievement Percentage Rates

Of the targeted youth, 97% successfully retain the course skills after
three months. Each student reads each skill with the instructor, views
a demonstration, and is given a hands-on practical opportunity to
utilize skills. A testing score card is presented at the completion of
the course, with eight course skills related questions and two optional
questions to determine if the student gained life-altering value from
the course. The instructor gathers all completed test cards and the
teacher’s Class Evaluation Sheet before leaving the session. These
cards and evaluation sheets are returned to the hosting site for
processing. It has been demonstrated that 57% of those students
who complete the course have increased their willingness to help
others in need, where they would not have prior to the training.

6 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Annual Performance Measurements

All SALF trained students are given a skills test to measure subject
matter knowledge. The test consists of 10 questions based on the age-
appropriate module. All results are stored in SALF’s data collection
system. Results and trends are studied to measure consistency of
instruction and seek ways to improve training delivery and results
while measuring the value these skills play in changing a child’s value
to help others.

Mentoring is an important aspect of the SALF program. A multi-


dimensional mentoring model is what sets SALF apart from other
youth-programs. Evidence is clear, that the positive aspects of youth
participating in a short, highly energized course, with those who utilize
these skills as a career, increase the student’s interest in the field of
EMS and are eager to follow their example when ever possible. By
working one on one with the school staff, SALF facilitators are aware
of any special needs, such as language barriers prior to scheduling
the class and assign appropriate local instructors to work with those
needing assistance.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 7


SALF Programs: A State View
Expansion of SALF training should continue during 2008 – 2009.
SALF anticipates new branch locations nationwide.

8 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


SALF Youth ChalleNGe Partnership

Throughout the past year National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Academy


Cadre (staff) have worked diligently with Save A Life Foundation
(SALF) to train thousands of Youth ChalleNGe cadets in basic life
supporting first aid (LSFA) skills. Cadet training continues at sites
across the country, with the expectation of thousands more being
trained in the coming year. Funded by the Department of Defense,
SALF coordinated the training of 140 Youth ChalleNGe Cadre, with
medical backgrounds as instructors, provided training materials and
equipment to train their cadets at Youth ChalleNGe Academies in
more than 30 sites nationwide.

In 1993, the Youth ChalleNGe program, opened in Rantoul, Illinois


(at the former Chanute Air Force Base) by the National Guard
Bureau in an effort to provide alternative education for high school
“at risk” students ages 16-18 who were in danger of dropping out of
traditional school environments. The success of Lincoln’s ChalleNGe
lead to the opening of Youth ChalleNGe sites, most at military bases,
across the country.

In 2005 Lincoln’s ChalleNGe Academy’s Director, Sergeant Major


Peter Thomas initiated a partnership with SALF to empower
cadets with life supporting first aid skills as part of a well balanced
education, creating a network of spontaneous volunteers ready to
lend aid in an emergency prior to emergency medical service arrival.
Mentored by their instructor the cadets also come to value the role of
emergency medical service (EMS) as a possible career choice.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 9


Led by National Guard professionals, SALF’s Bystander Basics©
course became so well accepted by the cadets that in 2006 the
Guard’s Independent Inspection Team observed and evaluated
the training for themselves, reporting to National Guard Bureau
Headquarters in Washington, DC their extreme satisfaction with the
program. Alimentally this stimulated Youth ChalleNGe Academies at
30 sites to incorporate SALF’s course for nearly 7,000 cadets.

Over the course of one year SALF monitored, evaluated and


reported the results of each trained Cadet, revealing 97% retention
of skills learned. Thus, proving cadets now have the knowledge
and willingness to lend aid in an emergency. This was further
demonstrated at Florida’s Youth ChalleNGe, Camp Blanding, Starke,
Florida, with a cadet’s life being saved shortly after the course. “By
empowering our youth with life saving skills they become a more
responsible citizen,” stated Carol Spizzirri, SALF Founder.

Save A Life Foundation continues to work with Youth ChalleNGe


Academies, to expand its focus on our youth, by providing
classroom and practical training with it’s First Responder – Careers
in Healthcare (FR-CIH) course to willing cadets. FR-CIH is geared
toward high school aged youth. The cadet can receive National
Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) First
Responder, Incident Command System (ICS) and National Incident
Management System (NIMS) certifications upon completion. FR-
CIH compliments the Youth ChalleNGe program perfectly, preparing
young men and women to enter advanced training for a career in
emergency medical services, law enforcement, fire service, nursing,
emergency management or public service, and could earn cadet’s an
additional stripe should they enter the military service.

10 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Girl uses SALF lesson to save friend’s life

Taylor Tosovsky and Rachel Wiesehan have been best friends since
kindergarten. But now their friendship means something more. Both
girls, who are 10-years-old, are students at St. Bonafice and play on
the Metro United soccer team. Last weekend the girls had a match in
Jefferson City, Mo. Taylor and another friend walked to get some ice.
When the two were walking back, she put a piece of ice in her mouth
and it lodged in her throat. At first, Taylor’s friend thought she was
playing, but she was choking. Her friend called out for help and help
came in a small, brown-haired, big-eyed, little girl. Rachel remembered
the steps she had been taught in the Save A Life assembly she had
attended at school the week before. The fireman had showed Rachel
and her fellow classmates how to properly give the Abdominal Thrusts
and how to perform CPR.

“I heard people yelling and I ran out in the hall,” Wiesehan said. “I
just started giving her the Abdominal Thrusts, I didn’t really even think
about it.” Rachel helped save Taylor’s life and she learned how by the
Save A Life program.

The program is now offered in schools all across the United States.
Locally, the program is administered at St. Mary’s, Trinity School
and St. Bonafice. Captain Tom Dannenberg of the Edwardsville
Fire Department said the program varies with the age group. “The
kindergarten class is a half hour and teaches the basics,” Dannenberg
said. “They learn how to recognize an emergency and when it is safe
to help and how to call 9-1-1.” He said the younger students also learn
Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 11
the “look, listen, feel” move for breathing. The older students go up
to a two hour session and discuss the Abdominal Thrusts, CPR and
how to help someone if they are bleeding. “This is a great program.
We don’t get a lot of chances to talk to the kids,” Dannenberg said.
“We really appreciate the schools letting us come in and show the kids
safety. It just proves that young children can be taught how to save a
life. We want people to be involved as safely as they can and know the
steps on how to safely help in an emergency.”

Eric Brandmeyer the EMS coordinator of Anderson Hospital and the


Save A Life Director for local schools said the girls are extraordinary.
“I have submitted them for the Save A Life Tree of Life Award,”
Brandmeyer said. “It takes the opportunity to give kids the recognition
for saving a life, and that is definitely the case with the two girls.”
Brandmeyer also said the program has benefited greatly for children
in the community. He explained the program is available to all schools
within the Anderson Hospital area and is free.

Jen Hengehold, the physical education teacher for kindergarten


through eighth grade at St. Bonafice, said the program has become a
staple within the school.
“This is the second year we have had the program and the second time
something good happened because of what was taught,” Hengehold
said. “I am very happy we have this program and I am very, very proud
of my students’ ability to respond to serious emergencies.”
Last year, some of the children that attend St. Bonafice were building
a bike ramp. One child was severely injured from a shovel slicing open
the back of his leg. The other children had recently went through the
Save A Life program at school and knew how to apply pressure to the
wound.

As far as the girls go, Rachel is remaining humble about her new
found celebrity status.
“I don’t really think I am famous, but some people think I am.”
And will Taylor ever eat ice again?
“I hate ice,” she said. - Marci Winters-McLaughlin/Intelligencer
(c)Edwardsville Intelligencer 2006

12 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Highlights & Accomplishments
National Highlights

U.S. Department of Homeland Security - a natural partnership


created by existing philosophy, expertise, and SALF’s core
competencies in bystander citizen preparedness. SALF’s efforts to
prepare citizens as bystanders is in keeping with DHS mission to
better inform, educate and prepare average citizens to cope with a
catastrophic man-made or natural disaster. SALF continues to work
closely with Citizens Corps and Medical Reserve Corps at the local,
state and national levels. For the fourth year SALF was featured
in U.S. Homeland Security’s Annual Report for its contribution in
conjunction with SALF month during National Preparedness Month.

National Affiliations - By strengthening ties to our not-for-profit


partners such as the U.S. Conference of Mayors, state municipal
leagues, League of Cities, county governments, emergency
departments, county health departments, community colleges and
school districts, SALF has positioned itself to meet the national
challenges of preparing our youth to become emergency active
citizens. Those organizations with similar interests have established
a mutually beneficial non-threatening understanding of our goals and
philosophy and have served to solidify our infrastructure.

Save A Life Month Proclamations - 28 State Governors, and


2,501 municipal leaders from across the U.S. and Puerto Rico have
proclaimed SALF month. This is an increase of over 400% since 1993.
The effort of state and local governments to encourage citizens to
become emergency prepared continues to be an intergral part of our
national visioin.

Founder/President Recognized - Illinois Resolution HR305,


sponsored by State Representative Lou Lang, and passed
unanimously in the House of Representatives. The resolution
recognized Carol J. Spizzirri, SALF’s President and Founder for her
work and the accomplishments of SALF since 1993

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 13


Carpentersville Unanimously Passes
Save A Life Resolution
On Tuesday November 4, 2008, the Village of Carpentersville Board
of Trustees passed a resolution approving an agreement between the
Village and the Illinois Save A Life Foundation. with a vote of 5-0. The
SALF Illinois and the Village Fire Department have agreed to work
together to help train 7th and 8th graders in Carpentersville Middle
School in life supporting first aid. The classes will be conducted by
local fire fighters and plan to begin December 2008.

Chief John Schuldt, Mayor Bill Sarto and Save A Life Foundation have
been working together to develop the program in Carpentersville and
the final step was the passage by the Board of Trustees.

Save A Life Foundation (SALF) is a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization


dedicated to training school children in life supporting first aid skills.
With the motto… “Trained hands save lives”, SALF is the only national
affiliate of the Department of Homeland Security’s Citizen Corps
specializing in emergency preparedness for school aged children and
youth. Since its inception in 1993, more than one million children and
youth have been trained in SALF’s basic life supporting first aid skills.
The Carpentersville Fire Department has been trained by SALF to
carry out the youth training. All of Carpentersville instructors are
credentialed EMS professionals. Instructors will be teaching skills
they use on a daily basis as first responders.

Mayor Sarto who is in full support of the SALF program is happy to


be moving forward with the program and stated “I am excited to start
the program and hope to continue it for years to come and expand
it’s scope. It will benefit our community and is a great help to any
youngster, the students will benefit from the practical knowledge that
will help them long into their lives”.

“Local businesses are very supportive of the partnership between


SALF and the Village of Carpentersville and have played a key
role in fundraising to pay for the training. We are looking forward to
expanding corporate donations so the children of Carpentersville can
be emergency prepared” said Carrie Viehweg, SALF Illinois State
Director.

14 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Save A Life Foundation Coalition
Through the generosity of private donations SALF has been able to
offset the growing demand for it’s training. The events of September
11, 2001, Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and the increasing threat of
terrorism, SALF has recieved requests for its training that exceed
current resources. To address the increased demand, the SALF
Coalition formed.

As a SALF Coalition Member, contributors will be linked to SALF’s


web site. Coalition members will be featured in SALF’s publications
throughout the year. Premiere Coalition members will have the option
of being included in SALFTOWN Kid’s interactive website which
features educational activities. Other membership options include:

• Adopt-A-School - sponsor the training ($15.00 per child


covers the cost of training, books, equipment
and instructors)

• Direct Contribution - of any amount through our Coalition


guarantees your generous donation will support SALF in all
our effort to save lives.

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 15


Cost Benefit Analysis
Return on Investment (ROI)

The ROI is a key area requiring little effort for big results in justifying
and validating a program. A program is cost-effective if, on the
basis of analysis of competing alternatives, it is determined to have
the lowest costs for a given amount of benefits. Cost-effectiveness
analysis is appropriate whenever it is unnecessary or impractical to
consider the dollar value of the benefits provided by the alternatives
under consideration. Since there is no other child program such as
SALF’s to compare to, it was necessary to provide a dollar amount
and a percentage value based on those figures for a valuable
program. SALF:
• Identifies the results of its training by a simple
questionnaire recognizing measurement of skills
retention level and any attitude change. (97% skills and
57% increased willingness to aid another).
• Seeks feedback from all those trained and who witnessed
the training
• Uses only EMS providers as Instructors for
quality assurance.
• Courses defined by those medical experts who invented
the procedures.
• Provides cost and time effectiveness

SALF’s courses have demonstrated a benefit of an estimated 10%


savings equal to $3.5 million, or more, a year in medical care costs
related to death and disabling injures. Based on A Report to Congress
1989 “Cost of Injury in US” Division of Injury Epidemiologist and
Control, Center for Environmental Health and Injury Control

For every $1 invested, the benefit of SALF’s training provides a


savings to society by a return of 80% confidence level not including
mitigating pain and suffering by those who experience the loss of a
loved one or an employee.

16 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


• Based on perceived value of $100,000
• Multiplying original dollars estimated by level of confidence
$100,000 (benefit of training)
x .80 (confidence factor)
$80,000 (discounted benefit)
• Subtracting cost of program from discounted benefit:
$80,000 (discounted benefit)
$25,000 (cost of 2,500 students)
$55,000 (profit)
• Divide profit by cost of program:
5,000 / $25,000 = 2.2
• Multiply this figure by 100 to obtain a return on investment
(ROI) percentage value for the program relative to input:
100
x 2.2
220% (estimate of value of program - this is
believed to be conservative)
Accordingly, your social investment of $100,000 will have an impact
of $220,000

Source info: J. Phillip, author of “Handbook of Training Evaluation And


Measurement Methods”:1997 FY-2005 Annual Budget

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 17


In Memory of Jan Kelley
Springfield, Illinois

Save A Life Foundation and its board members


are shocked and saddened by the death of Jan
Kelley, RN, former flight and emergency room
nurse for St. Johns’ Hospital, Springfield, Illinois.
In 2000 Ms. Kelley became SALF’s first Facilitator
based at St. Johns Hospital under former
Emergency Medical Director Mark Mitchell, O.D.

As Facilitator, Ms. Kelley work diligently to bring


SALF’s mission to District #186 school children (K-12) in Sangamon
County, Illinois, and expanded SALF’s reach to 27 collar counties
within a mere two years. Her perseverance prompted numerous state
agencies, including Sangamon County Sheriffs’ Department to the
Illinois School Nurses Association, to join her in SALF’s quest to bring
life supporting first aid skills into the classroom.

Illinois State Fire Marshall would feature SALF each year in their
Fire Marshall Tent, during the Illinois State Fair, during which Kelley
entertained visiting children while wearing SALF’s Perry Medic
costume, often in 100° temperatures. As Perry Medic became more
recognized by local children, community groups called upon Kelley to
invite Perry Medic’s participation at local events, state conferences
and parades.

Witnessing so many needless deaths in the emergency room herself,


her enthusiasm never ceased to empower children with skills,
which would no doubt save the lives of others. In order to reach
more children, Kelley had advocated Children’s Miracle Network to
sponsor “Miracle on Mason Street” that collected over $200,000 to
support SALF’s school training, St. Johns’ emergency department
and other deserved causes. Within a year SALF’s St. Johns’ Branch
became self-funded through the generosity of local corporations and
community groups that Kelley stimulated.

18 Save A Life Foundation Annual Report


Jan Kelley will be gravely missed. Her dedication to make a difference
in this world has been recognized statewide. Those who personally
knew Jan and her devoted husband Bill, knew of their caring nature
and love for children, especially their own sons.

In this time of loss, our hearts reach out in sympathy to Jan’s family
and friends.

Good-bye for now Jan!

Save A Life Foundation Annual Report 19


2007-2008
Outstanding Service Awards

SALF Employee of the Year


Carrie Viehweg - State Director Illinois

Branch of the Year


Anderson Hospital - Maryville IL
Eric Brandmeyer - Facilitator

Facilitator of the Year


Mike Cromis – VELCO, Rutland, Vermont

Instructor of the Year


Gary Pitney - Santa Barbara Fire Department

Municipal Leader of the Year


Bill Sarto, Village President, Carpentersville, Illinois

Volunteers of the Year


Derrick Bonomo, EMT-P
Rita Herrington, RN, EMT-P
Anne Johnson, M.D.
David Jones
Dr. Mark Mitchell
Col. (Ret.) Jill Morgenthaler
Greg Scott, RN, MS, EMT-P
Chief William McHenry
John Allen

SALF
Save A Life Foundation

www.salf.org

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