our story
A Legacy of Compassion, A Future of Hope
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The SGC USA Foundation, Inc. was established on April 23, 2023, as a formal embodiment of the values of resilience and service passed down through generations. What began as a targeted response to the urgent needs of a single community has rapidly evolved into a sophisticated international humanitarian network.
Today, we are a global family spanning the USA, Canada, UK, Belgium, and the Philippines united by a single, unwavering promise: to provide a sanctuary for the vulnerable and a foundation for the forgotten.
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OUR EVOLUTION
- Rooted in Heritage: Our foundation is built upon the "Legacy of Resilience," a commitment to serving others with the same strength and unity that defines our history.
- Global Reach: We have moved beyond regional borders to address systemic challenges across three continents, ensuring that our impact is felt wherever a need arises.
- Professional Excellence: By integrating advanced CRM management and digital outreach, we ensure every contribution is maximized to support our nine pillars of hope.
- Universal Mission: Our work is for everyone; we provide dignity and aid to all underserved populations, regardless of their background or location.
THE PILLAR OF OUR IDENTITY
As a registered non-profit organization, the SGC USA Foundation, Inc. operates with transparency and a clear vision for the future. We invite partners from around the world to join us as we build a world where compassion has no borders and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
DEEP ROOTS, GLOBAL BRANCHES

The SGC USA Legacy & Family Tree
Our Roots
The story of SGC USA Foundation, Inc. is a testament to the power of resilient values transformed into a borderless global mission. While our history is anchored in a tradition of courageous service, our commitment to humanity now transcends all geographic boundaries.
The Foundation
We honor the enduring spirit of Angel Santos and Pelagia Gimeno. Their journey from Nueva Ecija to Tondo during a time of national unrest formed the moral compass of our organization: a legacy of seeking sanctuary and building a fresh start against all odds.
The Pioneers
The mantle of the future was carried to the frontier of Occidental Mindoro by their children, led by the foresight of Patricio and Servillano Santos. Alongside their siblings—Dominador, Gregorio, Juan, Pedro, Alfonso, Catalino, and Felicidad—they transformed raw wilderness into a thriving community through tireless industry in lumber and farming.
The Founding Visionary: Servillano Santos
A cornerstone of our history is the leadership of Servillano Santos, the Cabeza de Barangay and founder of Ligaya, Sablayan. He did more than clear the land; he built a community. While providing for his siblings, Servillano pioneered the sponsorship of Christian missionaries to the province, focusing on the spiritual empowerment of the Mangyan minorities.
His devotion led to the establishment of the first local Christian church in his barangay—a flame that continues to burn brightly today. Through the dedicated sponsorship of his daughter, Elizabeth Santos, that initial mission has evolved into a permanent stone sanctuary and a seminary school, training the next generation of pastors and catechists.
A Heritage of Service
This pioneering spirit evolved into a "gold standard" of governance. We honor the historic tenure of Mayor Juan Santos, a national hall-of-famer and the longest-serving mayor in the history of Occidental Mindoro, whose leadership remains the bedrock of our commitment to the public good.
The Unified Legacy
Our foundation was fortified by the strategic union with the Germino family, specifically sisters Maria and Pacita, whose partnership with the Santos brothers created the stability and shared vision that sustains SGC USA today. We stand as a global bridge, carrying these ancestral values of faith, leadership, and community into the digital age.
2023-2025
THE TRANSITION
What began in 1992 as a vision by cousins, led by Lemuel Santos, to reconnect a growing family has blossomed into a sophisticated international humanitarian force.
- April 23, 2023: In California, Lemuel Santos and Bernardo Santos Pangilinan, joined by dedicated family members, established SGC USA to ensure that the distance of oceans would never weaken the bonds of our mission.
- January 16, 2025: The organization reached a historic milestone by becoming a formalized and registered foundation. This official registration provides the structured, professional foundation necessary to address critical humanitarian needs through our nine core pillars of hope on a global scale.
THE LEGACY TREE
We view our organization as a living entity, constantly growing to shelter those in need.
- The Roots (Founding Ancestors): The resilience of Angel and Pelagia, and the pioneering labor of the first generation in Mindoro, provide the deep stability that anchors our mission.
- The Trunk (Our Global Board): The current leadership of SGC USA and SGC Philippines serves as the strong, central support system, ensuring structured governance and transparency across all international chapters.
- The Branches (Universal Projects): Our reach now extends across the USA, Canada, UK, Belgium, and the Philippines. These branches represent our borderless projects from the Sanctuary of Hope to Christ Love FM providing a universal sanctuary for the vulnerable and a foundation for the forgotten.
The Serving God & Community (SGC) - USA Foundation, Incorporated was founded by SGC USA to transform a legacy of family service into a structured, global humanitarian mission. Our purpose is defined by a commitment to holistic care and sustainable support for those who have nowhere else to turn.
To be a global beacon of hope and resilience, where every individual regardless of their circumstances or location is empowered to live with dignity, supported by a world-wide community bound by compassion and faith.
our Vision
To be a global beacon of hope and resilience, where every individual regardless of their circumstances or location is empowered to live with dignity, supported by a world-wide community bound by compassion and faith.
OUR MISSION
The Serving God & Community (SGC) - USA Foundation, Incorporated is dedicated to preserving a legacy of service by building sustainable support systems for the vulnerable. We fulfill this through:
- Global Community: Uniting our international network to provide resources and advocacy for those in need across the USA, Canada, UK, Belgium, and the Philippines.
- Holistic Sanctuary: Establishing and maintaining high-standard facilities, such as the Sanctuary of Hope, that offer physical, nutritional, and emotional healing.
- Empowerment: Creating pathways from survival to self-sufficiency through education, vocational training, and spiritual growth.
- Spiritual Outreach: Spreading messages of hope and faith 24/7 through the global broadcasts of Christ Love FM.
- Crisis Response: Providing rapid assistance and economic resilience to communities facing natural disasters or financial instability.

THE SEAL
THE FOUNDATION SEAL: A FORMAL COVENANT OF SERVICE
The
SGC USA Foundation, Inc. seal is the official mark of our registered non-profit entity. While the Organization seal honors the heritage of the Santos-Gimeno Clan, the Foundation seal represents our formalized legal and spiritual commitment to international humanitarian aid and community development.
Symbolism and Architecture
- The Unified Map (USA & Philippines): At the heart of the foundation is a single, unified silhouette containing the flags of both the United States and the Philippines. This represents our borderless mission—bridging resources from America to provide direct relief and sustainable programs in the Philippines and beyond.
- The Foundation Icons (Cross, Fortress, Home):
- The Cross: Central and elevated, symbolizing our unwavering commitment to "Serving God" as the primary motivation for our work.
- The Fortress & Home: These represent the Sanctuary of Hope—our promise to provide a safe, fortified environment for those in need of housing, healing, and protection.
- The Laurel Wreath:
Encompassing the icons, the golden laurels signify our commitment to Excellence in Stewardship. It is a promise to our donors and partners that every resource is managed with the highest level of integrity and professional standards.
Historical Markers
- EST. I.XVI.MMXXV (January 16, 2025): The Roman numerals on the right signify the milestone of our formal registration as a Foundation. This date marks our evolution into a recognized global philanthropic entity capable of large-scale medical missions and educational empowerment.
- Founded by SGC USA Organization: This inscription honors the parent organization and the family legacy that birthed the foundation, ensuring that our "boots-on-the-ground" approach remains rooted in our original values.
The Solemn Motto: Pro Deo et Populo
Curved at the base of the foundation seal is our sacred decree:
"For God and the People."
It serves as a reminder that the foundation exists solely to serve humanity as an act of devotion to the Creator.
SGC USA FOUNDATION: CORE MANDATES
“Our foundation is not just a charity; it is a rock of stability in a world of crisis.”
As the formal arm of our mission, the SGC USA Foundation, Inc. is specifically responsible for:
- Legal Advocacy: Ensuring informed legislation and safety for vulnerable populations.
- Global Resource Bridging: Facilitating the transfer of medical expertise and technology from the U.S. to underserved regions.
- Sustainable Sanctuary: Managing the long-term operations of our 50-bed assisted living and crisis centers.

THE SEAL
THE SGC USA ORGANIZATION SEAL: SYMBOLISM & HERITAGE
The Core Narrative
The seal serves as a bridge between the
"Pioneering Spirit" of our ancestors in San Jose, Mindoro and Nueva Ecija, and our contemporary commitment to international humanitarian aid. Every element is intentionally placed to remind us that while our reach is global, our foundation is built upon faith, family, and hard work.
Visual Symbolism
- The Shared Identity (Flags & Carabao):
- The United States and Philippines Flags signify the organization’s dual identity, honoring our origins while celebrating our growth in the West.
- The Golden Carabao stands as a powerful tribute to our agricultural roots and the "National Service" of our elders. It represents the perseverance and diligent labor that allowed our clan to thrive.
- The Emblem of Sanctuary:
- The Holy Cross: Positioned at the highest point, it represents our spiritual bedrock. It signifies that the SGC USA Organization is "Built Upon a Rock" and remains devoted to serving God first.
- The Fortress and The Home: These represent the "Resilience" of the pioneers and the "Unified Blood" of the family founders. They symbolize the safety and sanctuary we now provide to the vulnerable through the Sanctuary of Hope.
- The Laurel Wreath and Scrollwork:
- The Golden Laurels recognize a "Heritage of Leadership," honoring the political and civic excellence of the elders who paved the way.
- The Decorative Gold Filigree adds a touch of "Class and Sophistication," reflecting an organization that has evolved into a "National Hall of Fame" legacy of dignity and prestige.
Foundational Dates & Motto
- Timeline (2023 & Roman Numerals): * The year 2023 marks the pivotal milestone when the SGC USA Organization was formally established in California.
- The Roman numerals IV.XVIII.MMXXIII (April 18, 2023) or similar dating on the seal commemorate specific moments of our structural evolution.
- The Motto: Amando Deum Et Amando Homines
- Curved at the base is our guiding principle: "Loving God and Loving Men." This encapsulates our dual mission: to remain steadfast in our faith and tireless in our service to humanity.
A SYMBOL OF GLOBAL UNITY
This seal represents the transition of local Mindoro roots into a structured, global community. It stands as a promise to the thousands we serve across the
USA, Canada, UK, Belgium, and the Philippines that the SGC USA Organization will continue to provide dignity, healing, and hope for generations to come.
Governed by Vision and Integrity
Our leadership brings together expertise in healthcare, finance, and ministry to ensure every project is sustainable and transparent.

LEMUEL C. SANTOS
President & CEO, Chairman of the Board
"Our mission is to build a sanctuary where dignity is restored and hope is a lived reality for the most vulnerable.".

BERNARDO SANTOS PANGILINAN
Vice President, Board Vice Chairman
"We believe that compassion knows no borders; we are here to bridge the gap between suffering and support."

LEONARDO C. SANTOS, Jr.
Secretary, Board Member
"Integrity and education are the foundations of a better future. We are committed to building both."

JUDELYN SANQUI PALOMAR
Treasurer, Board Member
"Every resource entrusted to us is a seed of hope. We manage those seeds with the highest level of stewardship."

SAMUEL SANTOS ESPERANZA
Auditor, Board Member
"Trust is earned through transparency. My role is to ensure our supporters know their generosity is reaching those in need."
OUR PILLARS OF IMPACT
We categorize our twelve initiatives into four strategic areas to ensure holistic care:
Pillar I: Residential & Crisis Care

A dedicated residential program providing a safe haven for the world’s most vulnerable.
- The Sanctuary of Hope: Providing specialized housing and dignified, long-term care for the elderly and those with acute psychiatric needs.
- The Traveler’s Haven: Offering a "soft landing" and comprehensive reintegration support for returning OFWs who lack a stable family foundation.
- Crisis Shelter & Advocacy: Providing protective residential care and confidential resources for survivors of violence and dedicated support for teenage pregnancies.
Pillar II: Health & Mental Wellness

Bridging the gap in global healthcare through professional psychiatric and medical intervention.
- Psychology & Wellness Centers: Offering accessible, high-standard care from psychiatrists and professional counselors for those facing mental health challenges.
- Medical Missions & Telemedicine: Facilitating US-led medical teams for global outreach while leveraging technology for remote expert medical consultations.
- Emergency Response & Rescue: Maintaining dedicated ambulance services and rapid-response teams for rescue operations and natural disaster relief.
Pillar III: Education & Family Support

Investing in the leaders of tomorrow and standing with families through difficult transitions.
- Educational Empowerment: Removing financial barriers through direct scholarships and strategic partnerships with premier private educational institutions.
- Student Living Allowances: Providing essential stipends for daily expenses to ensure students remain fully focused on their academic and vocational journeys.
- Family Advocacy & Mentorship: Offering comprehensive assistance for single parents and specialized guidance to build stable, self-sufficient futures for new families.
Pillar IV: Spiritual & Digital Ministry

Nurturing the soul through faith-based community connection and global digital ministry.
- Spiritual Foundation: Establishing vibrant spiritual homes and community centers through intentional church planting in California and throughout the Philippines.
- Christ Love FM Station: Spreading messages of hope, faith, and community connection 24/7 through high-fidelity global digital broadcasts.
- Community Connection: Providing accessible Bible study, professional prayer support, and spiritual guidance to strengthen our international network
One Mission, Five Nations.

SGC PHILIPPINES

SGC BELGIUM

SGC LONDON

SGC CANADA

SGC USA
YOUR PLACE IN OUR HISTORY
We believe that "Family" is defined by those who show up for one another. Whether you are a donor, a volunteer, or a partner, you are now part of the Santos-Gimeno legacy.

