Cheleste Foundation
Where we Care, with our whole Heart!

About Us:

"Cheleste is the home of the people who are unseen, the people who are ignored or even despised." ~ René Esser



The office of the Cheleste Foundation was built in 2016, serving as a safe haven for employees and their visitors. Referred to as 'The Ark,' the office is equipped with state-of-the-art security measures to keep those inside safe and prevent unauthorized entry from outsiders. It also serves as a sanctuary for individuals who have experienced discrimination or hate, with the building's lights always on.

Within the office, there is a built-in clinic where doctors and psychologists collaborate to effectively assist individuals. The clinic is funded by the Cheleste Foundation, ensuring that there are no additional costs for patients.

In total, the office has space for over a thousand employees. Additionally, it features its own gym, cafeteria, swimming pool, sleeping quarters, and a baby hatch on the east side, which operates in collaboration with the local fire department.

The office hosts monthly blood donation drives to combat blood shortages.



Catherine Jones, M.D., is a renowned plastic surgeon and a mother of three charming sons. One of her sons has Down syndrome. Catherine Jones and René Esser have been working together on an awareness campaign for several years. She is the face of the projects, while René Esser prefers to stay more behind the scenes due to his illness.
Catherine Jones performs gender-affirming surgeries multiple times free of charge. She personally sees it as her responsibility and honor to be able to do such work.

Catherine Jones, M.D., is also involved in various medical and governmental initiatives to make transgender treatments more accessible. She was part of a movement advocating for women to reclaim their rights over their bodies, endorsing abortion rights and a woman's right to freely decide about them.


René Esser Dr. h.c., is the visionary leader behind The Cheleste Foundation, a pioneering organization dedicated to revolutionizing healthcare accessibility and quality. With a profound commitment to philanthropy and a passion for advancing medical research and care, René has made significant strides in improving the lives of countless individuals through the foundation's initiatives.

Born and raised in Germany, René Esser developed a deep-seated desire to make a meaningful difference in the world from a young age. Their journey into the medical field was shaped by personal experiences and a genuine empathy for those facing health challenges.

As the driving force behind The Cheleste Foundation, René Esser has spearheaded numerous groundbreaking projects aimed at addressing pressing healthcare issues. Under their leadership, the foundation has successfully implemented innovative programs focused on Transgender Awareness, Down Syndrom Awareness and Abortion Legalisation.

In summary,  René Esser stands as a beacon of hope and progress in the realm of healthcare philanthropy. Through their visionary leadership and unwavering dedication, they continue to positively impact lives and inspire others to join in the pursuit of a healthier, more equitable world.