By: Ashmar Mandou

Director of Chicago’s Office of New Americans Adolfo Hernandez received a tremendous honor earlier this week from the White House as part of its “Champions of Change” program.

In honor of Citizenship Day and National Welcoming Week, the White House recognized ten local heroes who are “Champions of Change” that work ardently to integrate ‘immigrants civically, linguistically, and socially into the fabric of their neighborhoods by bringing all residents together to create welcoming communities.’

Hernandez, who was appointed Director of the Office of New Americans in 2011 by Mayor Rahm Emanuel, was among those recognized by the White House for his work in Chicago.

“Adolfo has worked to help immigrants of all backgrounds integrate and become meaningful contributors to our civic, cultural and economic life,” said the Mayor in a statement. “In Chicago, we value the contributions and recognize the importance of immigrants to our future.”

The Champions of Change program was created as an opportunity for the White House to feature individuals, businesses, and organizations making extraordinary efforts to empower and inspire members of their communities.

As the son of Mexican immigrant parents, Hernandez was born and raised in the Little Village community. For years he has worked tirelessly to develop and implement policies that support the creation of immigrant-owned businesses that attract and maintain talent that helps sustain Chicago as a vibrant and international city.

The Office of the New Americans has launched the New Americans Small Business Series, The Chicago New Americans Initiative offering assistance to thousands of legal permanent residents who are ready to become U.S. citizens, and the creation of The Chicago New Americans Plan.