White House Names Evanston's Paul Hamann a "Champion of Change" in the Fight Against Youth Homelessness
On Thursday, July 12, the White House will honor leaders who have made a significant difference in the way their communities combat homelessness among children and youth as “Champions of Change.” Evanston’s own Paul W. Hamann will be honored at this event for his work to combat youth homelessness.
“Today’s Champions of Change have made extraordinary commitments to helping children and youth reach their full potential despite the challenges arising from the experience of homelessness,” said Barbara Poppe, Executive Director of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness. “The efforts of these Champions, and others like them across the country, are critical to achieving our goal of preventing and ending homelessness for families, youth and children by 2020, and ensuring that every child has a safe and stable place to call home.”
“Evanston’s own Paul Hamann is an exceptional individual who has made a difference in the community’s way of combatting homelessness,” said Evanston Mayor Elizabeth Tisdahl. “Paul’s effort and commitment to fighting youth homelessness is commendable and Evanston is proud of his tireless work.”
Hamann is the President and C.E.O. of The Night Ministry. Founded in 1976, The Night Ministry is a Chicago-based nonprofit organization that provides housing, health care and human connection to members of the Chicago community who are struggling with poverty or homelessness. Paul joined The Night Ministry in 2002 as Director of Finance and Administration and has led the organization since 2007.
As President, Hamann provides leadership and vision for The Night Ministry, working closely with the Board of Directors. After graduating Summa Cum Laude from Ohio Dominican College, he obtained two graduate degrees: one in Theology with an emphasis on social justice teachings and the other in Nonprofit Administration. Prior to joining The Night Ministry, he was Executive Director of Families on Track, a San Francisco nonprofit. He also served on the faculty of the University of San Francisco, teaching Public Administration.
The Champions of Change program was created as a part of President Obama’s Winning the Future initiative. Each week, a different sector is highlighted and groups of Champions, ranging from educators to entrepreneurs to community leaders, are recognized for the work they are doing to serve and strengthen their communities.
To watch this event live, visit www.whitehouse.gov/live at 12:30 pm CST on July 12.