The 2026 Latin American & Caribbean International Movers Association (LACMA) Convention took place in Lima, Peru, March 8-11, 2026; however, the spirit of giving back and community outreach was on full display two days prior. This year, Arpin International Group employees Ronnie Blanchard and Marco Alvarado joined with 90 moving industry colleagues attending the annual LACMA conference and participated in a meaningful “Building Realities” volunteer project with Techo. Techo is a social responsibility initiative dedicated to constructing sustainable homes for under-resourced communities in Latin America.
Partnering With Techo to Build Sustainable Homes in Peru
For two days before the convention, Blanchard, Alvarado, and the other volunteers worked in teams to construct five homes in the Portada del Sol settlement in the San Juan de Miraflores district of Lima, Peru. Arpin International Group staff have participated in four Techo build projects worldwide, with the Peru project being Blanchard’s second build and Alvarado’s first, partnering with Techo.
Marco Alvarado Reflects on a Meaningful First Techo Build
“Participating with Techo was an incredible experience, even though it wasn’t my first time giving back through home‑building projects. I’ve previously volunteered with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, helping build homes in both Rhode Island and Guatemala. Being able to continue that work alongside industry colleagues in Peru made it especially meaningful and a memory I’ll carry with me for a long time. Working side by side outside of our usual day‑to‑day roles reminded us that collaboration doesn’t have to stop at the office (and that we can get a lot done without tracking numbers and laptops). Knowing that our efforts will change the lives of families in need made the experience truly rewarding,” said Alvarado.
Ronnie Blanchard’s Ongoing Commitment to Service in Peru
Blanchard is no stranger to volunteering in Peru. In fact, during high school and college, he participated in repairing homes and assisting with operations at a Women’s shelter in under-resourced areas of the country.
Building Stronger Communities Through Purpose‑Driven Leadership
“This was my second time participating in the Techo build, and once again it was a very rewarding experience. My family is from Peru, so it’s extra special to be able to help those with whom I share a cultural background. Stepping outside our usual professional roles and working side-by-side to build homes for families in need really creates a deeper connection and stronger appreciation for one another. At the end of the day, it feels good to know that we have made a real impact on the lives of these families for years to come,” said Blanchard.
In addition to serving as director of operations, GSA Services, Blanchard was recently appointed Associate Director of the LACMANext Board of Directors at the 2026 LACMA Convention. Blanchard is also a member of the FIDI39 and the IAM Young Professionals’ clubs. He holds a Bachelor of Science in International Business from Bryant University and has earned several professional certifications. He resides in Haverhill, Massachusetts.
