Since then, JAE-owned restaurants have boasted above average unit volume (AUV) within Wendy's franchise system, thanks to their five-star management team who pride themselves on using quality service, continual improvement, community involvement and innovation to measure success. The JAE team has been recognized by the brand for their achievements including the Wendy's Award for Best Operator in 2002, the Dave Thomas Award for Best Overall Franchisee in 2003 and 2012, and chairman Eddie Rodriguez was just inducted into the Wendy's Hall of Fame. As a company, JAE Restaurant Group works to contribute to the communities in which its restaurants serve through volunteering and partnerships with local organizations such as the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, Heart Gallery of New Mexico and St. Jude's Children's Hospital.