Building futures through education and heritage.
We are a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting special education, eliminating stigmas, celebrating cultural diversity, and providing access to capital for entrepreneurs.
Over 65 Years
of marriage and community service
Modesto and Zaida Medina
Modesto left Cuba in the late fifties’ fleeing the dictatorship of President Batista. He came to NYC with a few dollars in his pocket and not much else but his education. In NYC he met Zaida Medina and fell head over heels for this Puerto Rican beauty. Her father Jesus gave her a stern warning “That darn Cuban is only looking for his citizenship papers, stay away from him” Mom and dad are in their later 80’s and today July 2020 both have Alzheimer’s. They are well taken care of and their 3 children: Robert, Lizzette and Carlos keep them loved and happy. They celebrate over 65 years of marriage this year in November.
Korean War Veteran
A proud Cuban immigrant
Modesto Medina
Modesto served his country in the Army during the Korean War. He was sent oversees to Germany during the conflict.
From Ponce to New York
A life dedicated to community
Zaida Medina
Zaida Medina was born in Ponce Puerto Rico and came to NYC with her family at the age of 16.
of marriage and community service
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A Legacy of Love and Service
The Modesto Educational Foundation is built on the extraordinary life and values of its founders, Modesto and Zaida Medina.
Modesto Medina, a proud Cuban immigrant and Korean War Army veteran, and Zaida Medina, who was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico and came to New York City at the age of 16, embody the American dream and the spirit of giving back.
Together, they have shared over 65 years of marriage, raised three children—Robert, Lizzette, and Carlos—and dedicated their lives to uplifting the communities around them.
“Our journey taught us that true wealth isn’t what you keep, but what you build for the next generation.”
Carlos Medina, Founder
For more than 40 years, Carlos Medina has dedicated much of his career to helping others succeed, a mission inspired by the example of his parents and their commitment to service, community, and opportunity. Throughout his professional journey, Carlos has focused on creating programs, building organizations, and opening doors for entrepreneurs, artists, students, and underserved communities.
Most recently, Carlos led the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey through a remarkable transformation. Taking the organization from the brink of collapse, he helped rebuild its infrastructure, develop innovative programming, and grow it into the largest chamber of commerce by membership in New Jersey. During his tenure, he created entrepreneurship training programs, strengthened strategic partnerships, and established systems designed to outlast any single leader.
In March 2026, after helping position the organization for long-term sustainability, Carlos stepped away to focus his full attention on the Modesto Educational Foundation, which he founded in 2019. Through Modesto, Carlos continues many of the same efforts that have defined his life’s work, including entrepreneurship, education, arts, community engagement, and leadership development, but with a more focused, nimble, and mission-driven approach. The Foundation reflects his belief that meaningful impact happens when organizations remain close to the communities they serve and are free to act quickly, creatively, and purposefully.
This next chapter allows Carlos to concentrate on what has always mattered most: empowering people, creating opportunities, and building stronger communities for future generations.
Our Mission
The Modesto Educational Foundation (MEF) is a non-profit, Educational, conference and multi-media production company that supports: special education students with special needs, elimination of stigmas, contribute to diverse cultures in the U.S., create access to capital, and educating entrepreneurs.
Empowering Through Focused Action
Our initiatives are designed to create lasting, systemic change across education, culture, and business.
Cultural Diversity
The Modesto Educational Foundation supports cultural diversity.
Educating Entrepreneurs
The Modesto Educational Foundation supports the education of entrepreneurs.
Elimination of Stigmas
The Modesto Educational Foundation supports the elimination of stigmas.
Special Education
Supporting students with special needs and ensuring they have the resources and environment to thrive.
Access to Capital
Creating pathways and breaking down systemic barriers to funding for diverse entrepreneurs.
Signature Programs
Through media and direct financial support, we are amplifying voices and opening doors for the next generation of leaders.
- Education
Entrepreneurship Training Program
Built on Carlos Medina’s experience creating award-winning entrepreneurship programs, our training model focuses on practical skills, real-world connections, and measurable results. We cut through the red tape to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and succeed while strengthening the communities they serve.
- Education
Brunch Con Familia
Brunch Con Familia reflects a simple belief: success means more when it is shared with family and community. The event brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate culture, strengthen relationships, and create memories around the table.
- Multi-media Production
"Que Pasa NJ" on PBS
Hosted by Carlos Medina, “Que Pasa NJ” is dedicated to entertaining and educating viewers on the diverse stories, incredible people, and hidden gems throughout the tri-state area.
- Education
LUPE Fund Scholarships
Proud supporters of the LUPE Fund Young Latina Leadership Scholarships. Continuing a legacy of empowerment by awarding six scholarships annually to deserving young women.
Stay Connected
Join our community to receive updates on our programs, scholarships, and events.
Get in Touch
Whether you’re looking to support our mission, apply for a scholarship, or learn more about our programs, we’d love to hear from you.
Our Office
225 Grand Street
Suite 1405
Jersey City, NJ 07302