Plasencia is the co-founder and chairman emeritus of Amigos For Kids, a Miami-based nonprofit started in 1991 to serve underprivileged children and families.

Plasencia began his career as a 14-year-old intern at Miami's Radio Mambí, and by his senior year of high school he was the Spanish-language station's Promotions Director.

As vice president, Plasencia oversaw all marketing, publicity and corporate strategy for the company's various divisions, including artist management.

He also helped launch the crossover career of pop phenomenon Shakira in key regions including the United States, Europe and Asia.

[4] República has received national accolades for its creative and strategy, including several ADDY,[5] Telly,[6] Davey,[7] and PRSA Silver Anvil awards.

Throughout his career, Plasencia has played a key role in the production of marquee events, including "The Last Goodbye," a September 11 tribute at the White House, as well as Super Bowl XXXIII, the 1997 World Series, Shakira's MTV Unplugged, the Latin Grammy Awards and the "Queen of Salsa" Celia Cruz's historic funeral, among many others.

Plasencia is currently chairman emeritus of Amigos For Kids, and his work with the organization earned him the March of Dimes' Humanitarian of the Year award, among others.

Plasencia is also a co-founder of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI); former chairman of the board of the Cuban American National Council[14] (CNC).