Early Life and Calling
Born to a family with a history of missionary work, Kim Hartzner was inspired by figures such as Danish missionaries Karen Jeppe and Maria Jacobsen, who aided Armenian survivors during the 1915 genocide. This heritage, combined with his Christian faith, shaped his early convictions. In his teenage years, visits to the Soviet Union exposed him to deep suffering, especially among marginalized Christian minorities. These experiences laid the groundwork for what he later described as a deep sense of calling: “Helping people in need is my calling.”
On track to becoming a heart surgeon, Hartzner changed direction early in his career to dedicate himself fully to humanitarian service.
Founding of Mission East (1991)
In 1991, together with his father, Hartzner co-founded Mission East, a humanitarian NGO committed to supporting marginalized communities in crisis. Under his leadership, the organization became known for delivering aid to remote, dangerous regions, bringing food, medicine, and hope where few others would go. Hartzner personally helped transport thousands of tons of aid and constructed emergency hospitals in war-torn zones.
📄 Mission East 25-Year Jubilee Magazine (2016) documents his key role as founder and standard bearer.(1)
Mission10forty (2021–present)
In 2021, Hartzner co-founded Mission10forty, an organization focused on empowering the next generation in the 10/40 Window—a region spanning parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The group prioritizes children and youth affected by trauma, working with experts such as psychologist Kirsten Callesen and partner organizations like World Vision Armenia.
He continues to lead large-scale interventions and organize international advocacy efforts. On March 20, 2025, Dr. Hartzner co-hosted the “Symposium on Armenia: Safeguarding Sovereignty” in the Danish Parliament with Faroese MP Sjurdur Skaale. The event featured high-profile speakers including former NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen and Artak Beglaryan, former State Minister of Artsakh.
Faith and Motivation
Dr. Hartzner is a devout Christian, motivated by a belief that if something can be done to help others, it must be done—regardless of personal cost. This ethical imperative has fueled his long-standing courage and compassion.
