Jakob Schroeter, Welcome to the Board of Directors

Jakob Schroeter

We want you to get to know the incredible people who joined our Board in April—beyond their titles and accomplishments, to who they truly are. So we’re kicking off a series where we ask each of them a few questions to help share their story with you. 

We’re thrilled to welcome Jakob, he’s a seasoned pro in international finance and tech, and someone who really gets what it means to build a meaningful life from the ground up. 

Jakob has spent nearly two decades working in international wealth management, investment banking, and tech. You can read his bio on our Board Leadership page (link: https://www.bgcsonoma-marin.org/board ). What really stands out about Jakob is his heart, his sense of purpose, and the experiences that shaped who he is.    

What was your safe place as a kid—real or imagined? 

My grandmother’s house. It was a place of warmth, stability, and unconditional love. 

What did “success” look like to you as a child? Has that changed? 

My parents instilled in me a faith in God and taught me discipline, organization—and above all, perseverance. Never quit. Never give up. To me, success meant finishing what you started. That hasn’t changed. If you can’t follow through, it’s hard to achieve anything meaningful in life. 

When did you first understand what it meant to give back or be part of a community? 

That understanding came when I volunteered to serve in the German Army as a paratrooper. I realized I was part of something bigger than myself—and that service and community go hand in hand. 

Did you ever feel like you didn’t quite fit in? How did you find your way? 

Yes, especially during my time as an exchange student as a junior in high school in Orange County, California. I didn’t speak English very well, and it was tough. I found my footing through the swim and cross-country teams. I even lettered in swimming, which gave me confidence and a sense of belonging. 

Why do you think a place like Boys & Girls Clubs would have mattered to you as a kid? 

It absolutely would have. I had something similar growing up in Germany—a place to go when my parents were working, where I could stay out of trouble and just be a kid. That kind of environment can make all the difference. 

Jakob knows firsthand how critical supportive spaces are for children—especially those navigating uncertain circumstances. His experience and perspective will be invaluable as we continue building those environments for the next generation.  

You can make a difference like Jakob. Give the gift of summer camp to North Bay kids! Donate today to our Summer Campaign.