About the Foundation
Honoring Dominican heritage, building community impact.
About Carnaval for Change Foundation Inc.
Carnaval for Change Foundation Inc. was created to preserve, celebrate, and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Dominican Republic while using culture as a platform to create meaningful community impact.
Inspired by Dominican Carnaval traditions, especially the Carnaval of La Vega, the foundation honors one of the oldest and most recognized cultural celebrations in the Americas. Through cultural events, educational programs, community partnerships, and charitable initiatives, the foundation connects Dominican heritage with service, unity, and opportunity.
Carnaval represents more than celebration. It represents identity, resilience, creativity, family, music, art, and the strength of a people who continue to preserve their traditions across generations.
Culture that creates change
Carnaval for Change Foundation is dedicated to preserving, celebrating and promoting Dominican culture and Carnaval traditions while creating opportunities for cultural education, community connection and economic participation.
Through the Dominican Culture & Carnaval Festival, we aim to bring together families, businesses, artists, cultural organizations and community partners for an annual celebration in Southwest Florida — welcoming both the Dominican community and the broader Southwest Florida community.
"We believe culture can educate, unite, inspire, and create change."
A cultural bridge across communities
Our vision is to build a cultural and charitable organization that strengthens connections between Southwest Florida and the Dominican Republic while celebrating Dominican heritage across generations.
We envision a future where Dominican culture is celebrated with pride, Carnaval traditions are preserved for future generations, and cultural events help create opportunities for education, outreach, community support and humanitarian partnerships.
Inspired by the Carnaval Vegano
La Vega, Dominican Republic
The festival draws inspiration from the traditions, artistry, music, costumes, characters and community spirit of Dominican Carnaval, including the celebrated Carnaval Vegano of La Vega.
Carnaval for Change Foundation is an independent Southwest Florida nonprofit inspired by Dominican Carnaval traditions. We are not the official Carnaval Vegano and are not affiliated with it, the government of La Vega, or any other organization.
Our Values
Cultural Preservation
We honor and preserve Dominican heritage, traditions, music, dance, art, costumes, and Carnaval history.
Community Empowerment
We bring people together through service, partnerships, family-friendly events, and community impact.
Youth Development
We support youth through cultural education, mentorship, leadership, creativity, and opportunity.
Family Support
We care about families and underserved communities by supporting programs that provide hope, resources, and connection.
Unity
We build bridges between Southwest Florida, the Dominican Republic, and Dominican communities across the United States.
Integrity
We operate with transparency, responsibility, respect, and accountability to our community, donors, sponsors, and partners.