Marc Anthony

Changing Lives, Building Dreams:The Maestro Cares Foundation Story Published by Angie LaGuardia • April 12, 2025 Words by Imani Ogden Photography by Jennifer Jensen / @jennshotthat Editor’s Note:At Miami Shoot Magazine, we believe in shining a light on stories that uplift and inspire. This feature, beautifully penned by Imani Ogden, takes us into the heart of the Maestro Cares Foundation, a beacon of hope for children across the Americas. We are honored to share this story of compassion, dedication, and the power of community. In 2011, a chance visit to an orphanage in the Dominican Republic sparked a chain reaction of kindness and compassion. Zaidy Cárdenas, now Executive Director of the Maestro Cares Foundation, was volunteering at the orphanage when she discovered a group of boys living in a separate, overcrowded home with scarce resources. Deeply moved by their plight, Zaidy enlisted the help of her father, Henry Cárdenas, and international music icon Marc Anthony. Together, they visited the orphanage and were inspired by the boys’ resilience and unwavering determination. In that moment, the Maestro Cares Foundation was born. A Mission to Make a Difference Founded in 2012, the Maestro Cares Foundation is dedicated to building homes and schools for disadvantaged children throughout Latin America and the United States. The organization’s mission is simple yet profound: to create safe, loving environments where children can access quality education and enriching recreational programs. The foundation’s inaugural project, the Orfanato Niños de Cristo in La Romana, Dominican Republic, opened its doors in 2014 and has since become a beacon of hope for 50 boys. But the story doesn’t end there. Maestro Cares has grown its impact, expanding into educational programs in Peru and developing new initiatives in Colombia, Bolivia, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Guatemala, Chile, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Argentina, and across the United States. Jorge Linares enjoying a moment of reflection at the Maestro Cares charity event. A Special Partnership Among the foundation’s most inspiring collaborations is its partnership with four-time world champion boxer Jorge Linares. Linares has generously donated his boxing gloves and iconic Samurai walk-out jacket from his 2021 fight against Devin Haney. More importantly, he serves as an ambassador and mentor at Brawlerz Box, sharing his expertise and passion with the next generation of athletes. Through Brawlerz Box and the Maestro Cares Foundation, Jorge Linares exemplifies the spirit of giving back, empowering young people to pursue their dreams and realize their full potential. A Vision for a Brighter Future At its heart, the Maestro Cares Foundation envisions a world where children can live, learn, and play in healthy, nurturing environments. By providing essential resources and unwavering support, the organization is empowering disadvantaged youth to grow into the leaders of tomorrow. As Maestro Cares continues to expand its reach, one thing remains steadfast: its commitment to changing lives and building dreams. With the dedication of supporters and partners like Jorge Linares, the foundation is illuminating a brighter future for thousands of children across Latin America and the United States. Join the Movement To learn more about the Maestro Cares Foundation and discover how you can get involved, visit their website at https://maestrocares.org/. Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of children and help nurture the leaders of the future. Visit Maestro Cares Published by Angie LaGuardia • April 12, 2025 Words by Imani Ogden Photography by Jennifer Jensen / @jennshotthat