Founder and Executive Director of Hearts In Motion, Karen Scheeringa, is a woman of faith, of passion for the disadvantaged, and a woman of seemingly unlimited energy. She is the mother of ten children, nine of whom were adopted from the Philippines, Korea, Mexico, Guatemala, and the United States. In 1982, while picking up her adopted daughter from Korea, Karen met the director of an organization which specialized in providing needed surgeries for children from all over the world, and immediately became involved as a volunteer in that work. She did so as part of her personal desire to follow Jesus Christ in loving service to others.

By 1986, however, Ms. Scheeringa realized that the number of children in developing countries needing medical attention required a more aggressive approach. Additionally, she observed that removing small children from their families and homes was traumatic for all involved. In 1990, Ms. Scheeringa incorporated Hearts In Motion and began taking medical teams to children in need. (501 (c) 3 status was received in 1993.)

By the time of the incorporation, Karen’s efforts were becoming concentrated on Central America, especially Guatemala. She has worked effectively with medical specialists and other volunteers to establish a significant “presence,” in the Department of Zacapa, Guatemala. Through her efforts, H.I.M. has gained the trust of families in this poverty stricken area. Karen has also developed and maintained important contacts with medical and political leaders in Central America and throughout the United States.

Karen’s honors include:
-The Times Women of Merit
-Kiwanis International World Service Award
-Serving on the task force for Children and Family Services in Indiana.
-Honorary Doctorates.
-Recognition by Rotary International as a Paul Harris Fellow.

She has received Certificates of Appreciation from:
-The Korean Community of Chicago
-The President of Guatemala
-The Wellness Council of Northwest Indiana
-Northwest Indiana Trade World Council
-National Firemen Department of Guatemala
-And many more

Karen enjoys sharing her vision and experiences as well as challenging church and civic groups to participate in the work of Hearts In Motion. Her charisma and zeal are contagious, making her an effective motivator. She is available to speak to any group on an appointment basis and requests are welcomed.