Meet Our Founders
Jeff and Karlie Ruiter were born and raised in Loveland, Colorado. While their backgrounds—Jeff in construction management and Karlie as a nurse—shaped the mission of Casa Tabito, it was the calling that the Lord placed on their hearts that cast the ultimate vision.
They moved to Guatemala and poured their savings into a plot of land in a rural village, believing it could one day become a place of healing. That bold “yes” ignited a firestorm of generosity and became the heartbeat of a revival story still unfolding.
After five years of living full-time in rural Guatemala, Jeff and Karlie now reside in the U.S. but remain deeply involved as directors of the work on the ground. They continue to lead the local team, make near-monthly visits, and stay hands-on in every aspect of the mission, always bringing their daughters and others who share their heart for physical and spiritual transformation.
Jeff Ruiter
Founder and Executive Director
Jeff graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business with an emphasis on accounting and a minor in Biblical Studies from BIOLA University. He has a strong construction background, having worked for years for his parents' excavation company. Jeff oversees all public health measures, such as clean water initiatives, sanitation, and home construction.
Karlie Ruiter
Founder and Director of Programs and Development
Karlie holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a minor in Spanish from the University of Northern Colorado. Before moving into nonprofit leadership, she served as an emergency room nurse at the Medical Center of the Rockies Trauma Center. At Casa Tabito, Karlie oversees all medical programs, leads volunteer teams on the ground in Guatemala, and spearheads fundraising and development efforts to sustain and grow the mission.
Curious what we’ve been up to lately?
We just filmed a new family vlog from our most recent trip—want us to send it your way?
