Juan Violantes, owner of Giovanni’s Restaurant and founder of Giovanni’s Children Foundation is recipient of the 2015 National Black and Latino Council Power Player award and the 2016 El Salvador Don Quijote Award. Originally from El Salvador, Central America, Violantes moved to the United States in 1991.
In 2008 Violantes partnered with personal friend Giovanni Valente and started Giovanni’s Restaurant, a fine Italian dining spot in Austell, GA. The restaurant is very popular locally and has seen eight successful years so far. He is also an active member with the Cobb Chamber of Commerce, Marietta Business Association and more.
In 2014 he went on to found Giovanni’s Children Foundation, a non-profit that helps less fortunate families with small children receive help with food and other basic needs. For two years now he has also hosted ‘Dining for Charity’, an evening filled with food and fun where all proceeds go to children in need living in the Philippines and El Salvador.
“To all my family and friends, I dedicate this award.” Violantes said of the honor. “It is a symbol of hard work, patience, perseverance and dedication.”
The Don Quijote Awards were created by the HBIF and HCCMO to recognize and celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of individuals who have shown character of great strength, courage, conviction and determination, just as the beloved character of Spanish literature.
The National Black & Latino Council is a non-profit professional organization for Hispanic, Latino, & African American professionals, small business owners, entrepreneurs, corporate executives, government officials & media industry representatives.
Congratulations Juan on all of your achievements!
