About Us

About the Founder

Américo Baptista is a musician, composer, and educator with more than 20 years of experience working with young artists in Miami-Dade. An ASCAP member, he has dedicated his career to demonstrating that art is a powerful tool for human transformation. The foundation was born from that conviction.

The Origin

Music transforms lives. It doesn't just train artists — it shapes human beings. A child who learns music develops discipline, focus, self-esteem, and the ability to work as part of a team. A young person who steps onto a stage for the first time learns to manage fear, trust themselves, and communicate with the world. These are not secondary benefits — they are the heart of what we do. AME Arts, Music & Empowerment Foundation was created to ensure these benefits are not a privilege. In Miami-Dade, too many genuinely talented children have not yet had access to professional arts education. The foundation exists to change that. Through music education programs, scholarships, mentorship, and professional-level showcases, AME Foundation opens doors that would otherwise remain closed — for children and young people who deserve the opportunity to discover what they are capable of. The foundation was inspired by more than 20 years of experience working with young artists in South Florida, where we witnessed firsthand how art can change the trajectory of a life — regardless of their background.

Real Numbers

+1,000

Young people reached through professional arts experiences

20+

Years working directly with Miami-Dade families

100+

Families per event in a safe, professional environment

42+

Original compositions registered with ASCAP

Our Story

AME Arts, Music & Empowerment Foundation was formed in 2026 to bring structured, accessible music education to young people across South Florida. The Foundation grew out of more than two decades of community music education work in Doral, FL — including youth ensembles, vocal training programs, and public showcases that gave young performers their first stage. Today, AME Foundation formalizes that work into a nonprofit dedicated exclusively to charitable and educational purposes under Section 501(c)(3).

Our Approach

We combine music instruction, vocal training, and digital creative tools into one integrated program — helping students grow not just as performers, but as complete artists capable of managing their own creative path.

Official Recognition

AME Foundation received official 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status from the IRS on June 15, 2026, effective May 7, 2026. We are incorporated in the State of Florida (Document No. N26000006921) and operate as a public charity under IRC Section 170(b)(1)(A)(vi).

Board of Directors

Américo Baptista

President

Venezuelan-born musician, educator, composer, arranger, and producer with 20+ years of professional experience in Miami. ASCAP member with 42+ registered compositions and founder of AME Kids Band and MNAS.

Fabiana Baptista

Vice President

Bilingual banking professional with experience in operations, project management, and technology. Application Administrator at Banesco USA and Florida International University alumna. Brings expertise in operational strategy, innovation, and organizational leadership to help advance the AME Foundation’s mission through effective collaboration and community engagement.

Ivette Ruiz

Treasurer

Financial professional with 20+ years in accounting, taxation, and nonprofit oversight. M.S. in Accounting from St. Thomas University. Specializes in financial integrity, compliance, and strategic planning. Bilingual advocate for community-driven organizations.

Aileen Fundora

Secretary

HR Executive with 20+ years of experience in talent management, organizational culture, and employee relations. Director of Human Resources at American Care Medical Centers, overseeing 690 employees across 26 locations in Florida. Past Kiwanis of Homestead member and club secretary for 8 years.