History of Jan Vink Stichting
From a simple garage in Sint-Michielsgestel to becoming a bridge of hope for Indonesian children for over 30 years.
Journey Through Time
Follow the long journey of Jan Vink Stichting from era to era
Birth of Jan Vink
Jan Vink was born in Sint-Michielsgestel, Netherlands. From childhood, he showed great concern for others.
Military Service in Indonesia
Served as a soldier in Indonesia and fell in love with the country, especially seeing the suffering of the poor.
Sold Plastering Business
At age 60, Jan decided to sell his plastering business to become a development worker in Indonesia.
Working in Bogor
Lived in Bogor (near Jakarta) and witnessed poverty afflicting the community. Saw people living in dilapidated bamboo huts.
Founded BRI
Founded Bamboe Renovatie Indonesia (BRI), which later became Jan Vink Stichting.
First Thrift Store
Opened the first thrift store in his own garage to fund social programs in Indonesia.
Store Expansion
Moved the thrift store to a larger location on Van Overbeekstraat due to increasing community support.
Serious Illness
Jan became seriously ill during a work visit to Indonesia, realizing the need for succession preparation.
New Board Formation
Formed a new board under Jan's supervision to continue his noble work.
Legacy Continues
Jan Vink passed away (May 10), but his legacy lives on. YKS was established in Yogyakarta as a sister foundation.
Current Store
Opened a larger kringloopwinkel in Genenberg, a location still used today.
Expansion to Cipayung
Founded YBC (Yayasan Bakti Social Cinta Kasih Megamendung) in Cipayung to expand reach.
Today
Continuing Jan Vink's mission with 15+ active volunteers, two sister foundations in Indonesia, and real impact for 1000+ children.
Jan Vink
1926 - 2007
"Every child deserves education and a decent life"
Vision Beyond Life
Transparency Principle
Jan Vink emphasized the importance of total transparency. Every euro that comes in must be accountable and reach those in need directly.
No Overhead
All operations are funded from kringloopwinkel sales, so 100% of donations go directly to programs in Indonesia.
Local Partnership
Work with trusted local Indonesian foundations to ensure programs run according to local community needs.
Why Indonesia?
The reasons behind Jan Vink's dedication to Indonesia and the challenges faced
Geographic Challenge
Archipelago with 270 million people spread across ~8,000 islands. Distance from Sumatra to Irian Jaya >5,000 km.
Economic Reality
>60% of population (160 million) live in Java. Large rich-poor gap. >60 million still below poverty line.
Corruption Challenge
Corruption at national and regional levels. Jan Vink Stichting does not pay bribes, works directly with local authorities.
Our Approach
Focus on projects without structural government policy. Work with foundations that care for homeless and special needs children.
Impact Today
Jan Vink's legacy lives on through sustainable programs that provide real impact
Sister foundations in Yogyakarta & Cipayung
Active in Netherlands & Indonesia
Time from proposal to execution
Donations direct to Indonesia