Knock Foundation was formed in 2008 by five individuals with a shared vision: to build a grassroots organization that initiates and actively affects positive change in the developing world. This idea was born out of the time spent by the founders, Bruce Cohen, David Grossman, Michelle Kowalczyk, Kim Krowne, and Barry Krowne in both Kenya and Tanzania in East Africa. Before Knock, they were all inspired to travel abroad and volunteer, recognizing the overwhelming need for basic education, health care, and clean living environments by millions of people around the world.

Knock Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity registered in the United States. Knock is also registered as a non-governmental organization in Tanzania, where Michelle and Kim spent the majority of 2007-2012 supporting small business development, planning sexual health seminars, partnering with a children's home, and working towards improving the standard of education. Bruce and David have focused their work in several countries throughout Sub-Saharan Africa and Central America completing medical missions and school builds. It is ultimately Knock's vision to continue supporting impoverished communities throughout the world.