[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 124 (Monday, July 21, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E698]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING EDGAR ONTIVEROS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 21, 2025

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Edgar 
Ontiveros, a leader and public servant who has been named California's 
4th Congressional District 2025 American Dream Award Recipient for Lake 
County. This award recognizes the achievements of immigrants in our 
district who have made remarkable contributions to our communities in 
the areas of Arts and Culture, Professional Achievement, 
Entrepreneurship and Innovation, or Community Service.
  For many years, Mr. Ontiveros came to Hidden Valley to visit his 
uncle during the weekends. In 2003, he had the chance to visit 
Clearlake for the first time, sparking his love for the Lake County 
community. By 2004, he had the opportunity to purchase a house in 
Clearlake and has lived in the area ever since.
  In 2009, Mr. Ontiveros joined the staff of Lake County Behavioral 
Health Services (LCBHS) as a Cultural Specialist and Ethnic Services 
Peer Support Specialist. In 2014, LCBHS created the La Voz De la 
Esperanza community center, appointing Mr. Ontiveros as the center's 
supervisor. The La Voz, or the Latino Wellness Center, located in 
Clearlake, works to connect the Latino Community to culturally relevant 
service and ensure that Spanish speakers are equipped with tools to 
navigate health and wellness services. With volunteer translators and 
various educational opportunities, they help to break the language 
barrier that often prevents people from seeking help and offer 
referrals for mental health services when requested.
  Mr. Ontiveros' leadership and work as the supervisor of La Voz 
integral in ensuring countless community members have access to mental 
health support, help to navigate the health care system, and a sense of 
community and support. As a Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist, 
he works to assess critical needs of Latino community members regarding 
mental health services and support clients, both individual and family.
  Mr. Ontiveros also works tirelessly to develop, implement, and 
maintain activities and programs related to the Latino Wellness Center. 
He recruits and trains volunteers and develops relationships with 
partner agencies and community entities. Additionally, Mr. Ontiveros 
connects Latino community members to services through the Behavioral 
Health Department, providing key mental health services for those who 
may not otherwise have access.
  Mr. Ontiveros' commitment to service extends well beyond his 
professional duties. Mr. Ontiveros has taken to the front lines of 
community support following the countless fires that devastated Lake 
County, communicating important information and ensuring that Lake 
County residents have equitable access to emergency services and 
necessities during major disasters. Mr. Ontiveros is an ordained 
minister and faith leader. He works as a preacher in Middletown for the 
South Lake County community.
  Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we honor La Voz director 
Edgar Ontiveros for his service, leadership, and dedication to the Lake 
County community.

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