By: Ashmar Mandou

Hispanic Housing Development Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer Hipolito “Paul” Roldan is changing the urban landscape one affordable apartment at a time. The Brooklyn native has spent most of life developing over 3,100 affordable apartments and townhomes in 30 various developments for families and elderly residents in the Latino community in Chicago, alone. Most recently, Roldan broke ground on a new housing development in Humboldt Park designed for veterans. “It was never just about housing for me. It was about reintegrating members back into the fabric of our society,” said Roldan. “We are more than just housing. We provide our residents with all the resources to be able to function. We work with them every step of the way.” Prior to his experience with housing, Roldan developed low-income housing in Brooklyn. Roldan’s tireless efforts earned him the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Fellowship in 1988. In 1992 and 1995, Roldan participated in President Bill Clinton’s Economic Conferences. “I enjoy what I do,” said Roldan. “I am getting a little older, but as long as my health allows me, I will continue to show up and work hard for the Latino community of Chicago.