Our Story
JSFoundation is a Belgium-based organization working with partners around the world, with a strong focus on Tanzania. Together with local communities and organizations, we develop practical, sustainable solutions that create lasting impact.
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The foundation was established in 2015 by Karen Christiaens, following the vision of John Schrooten an engineer, entrepreneur, and deeply committed humanitarian. After his passing in 2016, the foundation continues their shared mission: creating meaningful, long-term impact through sustainable development. Their vision remains at the heart of everything we do.
Our commitment
We are committed to creating opportunities that last — supporting people not just today, but for the future.
Together with our partners and communities, we are building self-reliance, one community at a time.
Our approach
We work side by side with local partners and communities, with a focus on practical, inclusive, and long-term solutions.
Our work centers around:
- Training in sustainable agriculture, health, and entrepreneurship
- Creating learning environments such as food forests and school gardens
- Supporting local initiatives through microloans and school programs
- Developing tools and solutions that improve everyday life
Everything we do is designed to build self-reliance and create lasting impact.
Our goal is not dependency, but independence, ensuring that every project can continue and grow on its own. Everything we support follows the triple bottom line:
people
Improving lives and strengthening
communities
planet
Respecting and working with
nature
profit
Enabling sustainable economic growth
Our values
Our work is guided by a clear set of values:
- Community-led
We listen first and build solutions together - Sustainable
We focus on long-term impact— social, economic, and environmental - Practical
We believe in hands-on solutions that work in everyday life - Transparent
We are open about how we work, what we achieve, and how resources are used - Respectful
We value local knowledge, culture, and ownership
Our team
JSFoundation is supported by a committed team in Belgium. Our team brings together expertise in engineering, sustainability, and development, united by a shared commitment to creating lasting change. The team in Belgium supports coordination, partnerships, and fundraising—connecting resources with local action.
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Our board of advisors provides strategic guidance and expertise, helping us strengthen our impact and grow sustainably.
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Our work is made possible by a dedicated group of volunteers who contribute their time, skills, and energy to support our mission.
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Our connection with Tanzania
Our work is rooted in long-term partnerships in Tanzania. We collaborate closely with local communities, women’s groups, farmers, and schools—people who are at the heart of their communities and best understand their own needs.
By working side by side with local partners, we ensure that every initiative is relevant, locally driven, and built to last.
Our key partners are: KSDI and Tunza Africa
Team in Tanzania works directly with communities, implementing projects and ensuring they respond to real needs on the ground.
Our partners
We believe strong partnerships are essential for sustainable impact. We work with trusted organizations and networks, including:
- Operational partners
Local NGOs, schools, and community groups who implement and guide projects on the ground - Financial supporters
Organizations and individuals who make our work possible - Ecosystem partners
Networks and collaborators who strengthen knowledge, innovation, and long-term development