Accessible Prosthetics Initiative at Pitt
Many amputees do not have access to the proper prosthetic care due to being uninsured, having unique conditions, or being in a remote location. As a result, these amputees struggle to return to their daily activities and lifestyle. Accessible Prosthetics Initiative, or API, is a non-profit organization focused on increasing access to prosthetic technologies and care. API accomplishes this through community outreach, educational initiatives, and accessible device design. By meeting with amputees and healthcare professionals, we try to identify and develop solutions to unaddressed issues patients are experiencing.
Our API members here at Pitt are involved in many different roles for the club, including volunteering, outreach, and device development. A few of our members volunteer weekly to give programs to middle school students, to open their eyes to a potential career in prosthetics and healthcare. These interactive programs allow us to teach kids about prosthetics through fun engineering challenges. Other members of our club are focused on outreach, by connecting and discussing with amputee support groups. The rest of our club members work on designing and manufacturing prosthetic devices.
The money raised will go into creating prosthetic devices for amputees, especially for those who do not have access to prosthetic care through other means. This money will go into purchasing materials and tools needed to create these devices. Any money remaining will go back to the club, such as for a pizza night for our club members or club merchandise. Any single donation would be greatly appreciated, as you are helping people get one step closer to getting the proper care they deserve!