Gabriel Mendoza is the founder of the Youngarmy Group whose mission is to create a movement to advance the resources and information which protect our wellness. Gabriel’s company has been a Women's Fund of Miami-Dade Corporate Sponsor since 2005.

Why did you decide to donate to the Women’s Fund of Miami-Dade?

Two years ago, in 2005, I learned about the Women's Fund of Miami-Dade at the Young Legal Professionals Raise the Bar reception. When I saw there was an organization helping women it touched me because I know the struggles women go through. The reason I chose to donate to the Women’s Fund then was because if it were not for my mother and grandmother I would not be the person I am today. They both raised my two older brothers, my sister, and myself after my mother divorced my father. Through local assistance from different organizations my mom was able to move forward in a much easier way. I believe in the Women’s Fund’s mission and know that as I say this, there is a mother or a young girl who is reaching her fullest potential due to a grant from the Women's Fund of Miami-Dade.

Why do you continue to be a member?

What influences me, as a Women’s Fund donor, is that the money stays local. In Miami there are a lot of talented women and I want to be a part of helping them succeed. I also know that the work of the Women’s Fund is an important part of wellness for the entire community. When I was in my early twenties, I worked in the insurance industry and served the 65 and over Medicare market. I grew intrigued by how some of them reached a state of health that was full of energy, youth, and vigor. In 2001, I founded the Youngarmy Group and www.youngarmy.com. We distribute wellness products, services, and designs so that all generations seek wellness.

I would encourage people to help out so that young girls in Miami-Dade have hope and a chance to provide for their family or whatever it means for them to be successful in society. One nice thing I like seeing is how Women’s Fund makes grants so that girls in detention are introduced to a new activity that were not accustomed to or would never have a chance to experience.