Meet Kristi “KK” Schiller, Founder of K9s

Kristi Schiller is a visionary philanthropist who transformed a tragic loss into a national movement protecting both law enforcement officers and communities

How We Got Started?

K9s began with tragedy and heroism. On December 22, 2009, Deputy Ted Dahlin’s K9 partner, Blek, was killed while chasing burglary suspects, ensuring Dahlin returned home safely to his family.

Moved by the story, Houston philanthropist Kristi Schiller wanted to honor Blek’s sacrifice. She soon learned many police departments couldn’t afford K9s, which cost up to $45,000. In 2010, Schiller founded K9s (Formally known as K9s4COPs) to provide these life-saving dogs.

Since then, K9s has placed over 300 K9s, taking more than a billion dollars in contraband off the streets. Through her mission, Schiller keeps Blek’s legacy alive, helping K9s protect officers, communities, and children across America.

OUR MISSION

Why We Exist

To strengthen communities and enhance safety across America.
Safer Communities

K9s helps officers access K9 partners, ensuring they have the support needed to protect our neighborhoods and keep families safe.

Better Law Enforcement

K9s make officers safer and help them do their jobs better. K9s ensures agencies have these vital partners for greater effectiveness.

Honor The Legacy

K9s are true heroes. K9s exists to ensure these loyal, courageous dogs continue their work in protecting and serving communities.

BOARD MEMBERS

Guided by Purpose,
Driven by Heart

Meet the brilliant and compassionate individuals who make up our Executive & Advisory Boards, and are dedicated to achieving our goals.

Kristi “KK” Schiller
FOUNDER & BOARD CHAIR
Hon. Robert Eckels
PRESIDENT OF BOARD
Carol Watford
BOARD SECRETARY
Manuel Sanchez
BOARD
Deputy Ted Dahlin
BOARD
David DeLeon
BOARD
Preston Hall
BOARD
Jason Morris
ADVISORY BOARD
David L. Butchalter
ADVISORY BOARD
Marilyn Chinitz
ADVISORY BOARD
Rikki Kleiman
ADVISORY BOARD
Sgt. Chris Moore
ADVISORY BOARD
Marisa R. Randazzo, Ph.D.
ADVISORY BOARD
Sgt. Stuart Red
ADVISORY BOARD
Ellen Susman
ADVISORY BOARD
Dave Zinczenko
ADVISORY BOARD
David Hagy
ADVISORY BOARD
David Wilde
ADVISORY BOARD

Empower Our First Responders to Make America Safer

Your donation helps fund K9 units that detect threats, protect schools, and secure communities nationwide, directly contributing to a safer future for students, healthcare workers, and law enforcement.

Take Action Now