The Story Behind JGM Innovation

Every organization is shaped by a founder’s question. For JGM Innovation, that question was simple yet profound: how can we honor where we come from while building opportunity for the next generation?

Carlos’s journey with JGM began when he was a freshman in college, searching for something greater than himself. As a prospective member of Phi Iota Alpha at St. John’s University, he was introduced to a powerful belief rooted in shared Latin American identity. Although each country carries its own culture and history, the struggles and aspirations across the region are deeply connected.

As the son of Dominican immigrant parents, this message resonated deeply. It reinforced a sense of responsibility to give back to the communities that shaped his family’s story.

During that time, Carlos heard about an alumnus from two generations prior who had helped rebuild a school in Peru. The scale of that accomplishment was difficult to imagine, but it sparked something lasting. It showed him that student-led service could transcend borders and create generational impact.

Inspiration Led to Action

By his sophomore year, Carlos was serving as president of his chapter. Leadership prompted reflection. How could he, as a first-generation college student whose parents left their homeland in pursuit of opportunity, create meaningful change? How could he honor sacrifice with action?

Seeking guidance, he learned that the Jorge Guevara Mellado School in Santa Eulalia, Peru, still needed support. Located in a remote mountainous region with limited resources, many children faced financial hardship, and some were pulled from school to work.

What began as a modest fundraiser for backpacks and school materials quickly gained momentum. The response from students, alumni, and community members was overwhelming. That first campaign marked the beginning of what would grow into a long-term commitment.

A Legacy of Impact 

Over time, one initiative evolved into a sustained mission.

JGM Innovation expanded its efforts to address infrastructure, educational access, and family support. Each project strengthened relationships within the community and reinforced the belief that consistent investment creates lasting change.

Key milestones in JGM’s journey include:

2007 - School Rebuilding Initiative

2017 - School Supplies Fundraiser and Scholarship Launch

2018 - Playground Fundraiser and Scholarship Expansion

2019 - Don Jose De San Martin Computer Lab, National media recognition through NBC and ABC, Continued scholarship growth

2020 to 2021 - Pandemic food basket distribution supporting families during COVID

2022 - Official 501(c)(3) registration

2024 - Lima educational trip

2025 - JGM Games initiative

Each chapter reflects more than a completed project. It represents trust built with families, opportunities created for students, and a community strengthened through consistent partnership.

Our Mission Continues

At its core, JGM Innovation reflects Carlos’s belief that honoring one’s heritage means investing in the future.

His journey from college freshman to nonprofit founder demonstrates how inspiration, when paired with action and sustained commitment, can grow into a movement.

JGM Innovation continues to evolve, guided by the same principles that inspired its beginning: education as opportunity, family engagement as foundation, and community as the driving force behind lasting change.

The work still continues.