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Multicultural

Honoring Houston’s Hispanic Heroes

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Comcast’s Houston region recently honored 10 community volunteers at the first-ever Comcast Hispanic Hero Awards gala.

The honorees were recognized for their commitment to making a difference in the community through volunteerism, mentorship, advocacy and civic engagement. Elected officials, community-based organizations and other influencers all took part in nominating the following individuals for these awards:

  • Pedro Caruso, Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Houston

  • Hiram "Art" Contreras, Career and Recovery Resources

  • Greg Hernandez, Covenant House Texas

  • Maria Cantu-Ondarza, Legacy Community Health

  • Lenora Sorola-Pohlman, Houston East End Chamber of Commerce

  • Jessica Requena, Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star

  • Rafael Sarango, Salvation Army

  • Joseph Soliz, The Fort Bend Council

  • Jose Valdez, Houston East End Chamber of Commerce

  • Jose Castillo, American Red Cross

"These exceptional individuals have demonstrated selfless commitment," said Ray Purser, Vice President of External Affairs for Comcast’s Houston region. "The Hispanic Hero Awards gave us an opportunity to recognize those who have played a vital role in positive change in their communities while celebrating the diversity of this great city."

The event began with a reception followed by dinner and an awards presentation. During the reception, Ray Purser and Javier Garcia, SVP of Multicultural Services at Comcast Cable, gave a few remarks about the company’s commitment to the Hispanic community, specifically through our products, programming and community investment. Members of the community were invited to take part in the awards ceremony, as well. Francisco Ivarra from SER Jobs for Progress served as the keynote speaker and Crystal Ayala from Telemundo was the Master of Ceremonies. A video highlighting each award winner was played before the individuals were called on stage to receive their award.

Along with honoring these individuals, each winner received $1,000 to donate to the non-profit organization of their choice. Award recipients will also be featured in a Public Service Announcement Campaign that will run through 2017 on local Comcast Cable Networks and KTMD Television.

"Because of the tremendous amount of positive feedback the event garnered, the Region already has plans to host the event again next year. "We received tremendous support from our community partners," added Purser. "And the response from the attendees and winners was overwhelming. By the end of the night, no one wanted to leave."