International singing star Marc Anthony and entertainment impresario Henry Cardenas announced Thursday the launch of the Maestro Cares Foundation, a non-profit to aid disadvantaged children in Latin America.

“I’m blessed to be a part of this project. There are millions of children suffering throughout Latin America. Maestro Cares seeks to make a positive impact in their lives,” Anthony said in a statement.

An orphanage in the Dominican Republic the singer visited last month will be the first recipient of funds from Maestro Cares.

“I’m grateful to Henry Cardenas for his contributions to this initiative and we are both eager to get started. I hope Maestro Cares will inspire others to do the same,” said Anthony, who has sold more than 12 million albums worldwide.

Cardenas said the foundation’s goal is to help create “healthy and safe environments” for children in Latin America as well as addressing the youngsters’ academic needs.

“Education is key for Maestro Cares because it will bring the children closer to their dreams. They are our future leaders,” Cardenas said.