What are the Schmitz Foundations?

Werner Peter Schmitz-Hille (Founder, † 24.12.2008)

The W. P. Schmitz Foundation, created by Werner Peter Schmitz († 24.12.2008), was established in 1985 as a non-profit foundation for development aid in accordance with the terms of the laws of the German State of North-Rhine Westphalia. Its scope has expanded greatly in the course of many years of intensive work. In 1996, to meet the increased demands, Mr. Schmitz set up the Schmitz-Hille Foundation located in Thun, Switzerland. The Schmitz-Hille Foundation and the W. P. Schmitz Foundation maintain a joint administrative office in Düsseldorf.

It is the declared aim of both Foundations to make an effective contribution to combating poverty and promoting understanding among the people of the world. To this end, the Schmitz Foundations work closely with the target groups on the ground and local project organisers, or in co-operation with other non-profit organisations with similar aims.

Every year more than 100 projects are planned, funded, organised and implemented. And it’s not always the financial side that takes the lead. The Schmitz Foundations also actively support their local partners with know-how , experience and expertise and by providing technical advice and assistance.