About Us
The Warriors Prosthetic Initiative (WPI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping injured veterans and first responders regain capability and independence after limb loss.
Warriors Prosthetic Initiative is dedicated to serving those who were injured while serving us. We recognize the sacrifices that many make to give us freedom, security, and safety. Whether it be during military services, or through law enforcement, fighting fires, or performing emergency services, many are injured while serving on our behalf.
Warriors Prosthetic Initiative also recognizes that there is more to recovery and living with an injury than prosthetics and rehabilitation. While the medical community works hard to do what they can, the simple truth is – the world is not always adapted to those with prosthetics.
We are here to help. Our initial outreach seeks to provide prosthetic adapters that allow users of Hosmer hooks to use power tools, lawn and gardening equipment, and sporting equipment so that they can access work they enjoy or hobbies they love.
Join us in our mission to serve those injured while serving us!
Our Mission
In service to those who were injured in service to us, we adapt the world so that those who served can return to work that interests them and hobbies they love.
We believe those who sacrificed life and limb serving our country deserve to live full, active lives. Our mission is to empower veterans and first responders with limb differences to return to the hobbies, careers, and activities they love. We do this by providing adaptive equipment, training, and support.
Our History
WPI was founded in 2019 by Mr. DaTrelle Black, Dr. John Schell, and Mr. Dylan Herd, who recognized the need for an organization focused specifically on supporting veterans and first responders with limb loss and limb dysfunction.
Our Team
WPI is led by a diverse Board of Directors who bring decades of combined experience in nonprofit leadership, prosthetics, and advocacy for injured veterans.
Our all-volunteer staff dedicate their time to furthering our mission. Their compassion and dedication is the driving force behind our organization.
Our Board of Directors
Mr. DaTrelle Black
DaTrelle Black served for over 21 years as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician in the U.S. Armed Forces. During his service, Mr. Black sustained severe injuries while disarming an improvised explosive device. After months of recovery and rehabilitation, he returned to active duty for multiple additional tours. Mr. Black holds a master's degree in psychology. As an injured veteran himself, he brings firsthand experience and passion for empowering fellow injured veterans.
Dr. John Schell
Dr. John Schell has over 20 years of experience working closely with medical device companies. He provides guidance on intellectual property, corporate governance, and taxes. Dr. Schell serves on the boards of several charities focused on diversity, equity, inclusion, and support for injured veterans. His expertise and connections in the medical technology space make him an invaluable member of the WPI team.
Mr. Dylan Herd
Mr. Dylan Herd is an HVAC technician and machinist who lost a hand in an accident. After struggling to find effective prosthetic solutions, he has become highly experienced in using adapters that enable him to regain function. Mr. Herd has received extensive training with the LifeWork® Adapter for power tools and sports equipment. His personal experience helps inform WPI's mission and is emensely valuable when training users of adapted tools.
Contact Us
Warriors Prosthetic Initiative, Inc.
5114 Balcones Woods Drive
Ste. 307-204
Austin, Texas 78759
Email: info@warriorsprostheticinitiative.org
Phone: (512) 337-6451
Fax: (512) 233-5190
Warriors Prosthetic Initiative, Inc. is a non-profit corporation with 501(c)(3) status.
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