Our Story
It all starts with people
Every meaningful change begins with a connection, a shared idea, or the belief that something better is possible. At JSFoundation, we bring people, knowledge and opportunities together — turning small beginnings into lasting change.
What started as a personal vision has grown into a shared journey, shaped by the people and communities we work with.
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.
Where it began
JSFoundation was born from a shared belief that knowledge, creativity and determination can change lives.
Founded in 2015 by Karen Christiaens, the foundation was inspired by the vision and values of John Schrooten — an engineer, entrepreneur and humanitarian who believed in practical solutions and empowering people to shape their own future.
Following John's 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.
Today, JSFoundation (Private Stichting John Schrooten) is a Belgium-based organization with a strong focus on Tanzania, working alongside local communities and partners to create sustainable opportunities.
Our commitment
We are committed to community-led initiatives, hands-on education and practical support that empower people with knowledge about healthy nutrition and sustainable agriculture, help them develop skills, strengthen local businesses and create lasting opportunities — building self-reliance, one community at a time.
Our journey
10 years of growing together
From planting the first moringa trees to growing opportunities for women, farmers and future generations.
Our values
Everything we do is guided by the triple bottom line: People, Planet and Profit — balancing social well-being, environmental sustainability and economic opportunities.
Our work is guided by five core values that shape how we connect, collaborate and create lasting change.
- Respect & Listen
We value local cultures, traditions and knowledge. By listening first, we understand people's needs, ambitions and priorities, ensuring that communities remain at the heart of every initiative. - Trust & Transparency
We believe in honesty, open communication and accountability, being transparent about how we work, what we achieve and how resources are used. - Collaboration & Community Leadership
We bring people, ideas and expertise together, building solutions through shared effort, mutual understanding and local leadership. - Empowerment & Practical Action
We provide access to practical skills, tools and opportunities, enabling people to turn ideas into action, strengthen their independence and shape their own future. - Sustainability & Responsibility
We consider the long-term social, environmental and economic impact of our actions, creating opportunities that benefit both people and the planet.
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.
Karen CHRISTIAENS
Short description and/or function
Christophe HUYGENS
Short description and/or function
Peer BAIERLEIN
Short description and/or function
Our board of advisors provides strategic guidance and expertise, helping us strengthen our impact and grow sustainably.
Name
Short description and/or function
Name
Short description and/or function
Name
Short description and/or function
Our work is made possible by a dedicated group of volunteers who contribute their time, skills, and energy to support our mission.
Name
Short description and/or function
Name
Short description and/or function
Name
Short description and/or function
Our partners
Growing stronger together
We believe meaningful and lasting change grows through strong partnerships. By bringing together local knowledge, expertise, resources and shared ambitions, we create opportunities that go beyond what any organization could achieve alone.
- 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
Key partners
Building on trust and local ownership
Operational partners
Turning ideas into action
Financial Supporters
Making opportunities possible
Ecosystem
Connecting knowledge and innovation