The story behind The Bison Foundation — our mission, our people, and the programs we're building.
John Byler founded The Bison Foundation after living through a mild traumatic brain injury. That experience shaped his commitment to helping others affected by brain injury.
The foundation is still early in its development and is not currently providing direct services. Its work is focused on listening, learning, and shaping future support.
BISON stands for Brain Injury Support: Operational & Neurological. Our name reflects the work ahead.
To build a community of care around those affected by brain injury — providing practical in-home support, places of renewal, and the human connection that survivors need to recover and thrive.
A world where no brain injury survivor faces their recovery alone — where support is personal, programs are effective, and hope is never in short supply.
Dignity, compassion, community, and perseverance. We hold ourselves to the highest standard — because those we serve deserve nothing less.
Our name is more than a word — it's a declaration of who we are and what we're building.
Recognizing the complex neurological realities of brain injury and its far-reaching effects on every dimension of life.
Acknowledging that brain injuries — traumatic or acquired — alter lives in deeply personal, often invisible ways.
Building a community of care that surrounds survivors and their families with practical help and lasting hope.
Creating programs designed for real life — in-home, hands-on, and community-based, not merely theoretical.
Honoring the uniqueness of every brain and every recovery — "as specific as our injuries are, as specific as our fingerprints."
The foundation is still shaping its future service areas. At this time, it is not providing direct services.
A future form of direct support for people facing hardship after brain injury.
Learn MoreMeet the people building The Bison Foundation's early work.
John Byler founded The Bison Foundation after living through a mild traumatic brain injury. His experience continues to guide the foundation's early work and future direction.
At this stage, the organization is small and still shaping its service model. It is not currently providing direct services.
Serving as the Administrator of The BISON Foundation is an honor and deeply personal to me.
Inspired by my uncle's passion for helping those affected by brain injury, I am committed to supporting our mission of raising awareness, providing resources, and ensuring survivors and their families know they are never alone.
"Be a part of the impact. Stay up-to-date with Bison Foundation news, including new programs, upcoming events, and updates on our brain injury recovery journey."