LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — On Sunday, Rep. Mike Thompson recognized Edgar Ontiveros as the 2025 American Dream Award recipient for Lake County. 

Thompson presents the American Dream Award during Immigrant Heritage Month to residents of California’s Fourth District who have come to the United States and made outstanding contributions to our communities.

“Immigrants are our neighbors and colleagues, soldiers and first responders, doctors and lawyers, farmers, entrepreneurs, teachers and so much more. Our nation would not be the powerhouse of the world without their contributions to our country’s history, culture, and economy. This is evidenced by Mr. Ontiveros’s work in our community,” Thompson said.

“Through his work with the La Voz De la Esperanza community center, Mr. Ontiveros has contributed meaningfully to our community by breaking language barriers and improving access to mental health and well-being services. I am honored to recognize Mr. Ontiveros as this year’s Lake County American Dream Award recipient,” Thompson added.

Edgar Ontiveros grew up in Mexico, first making his way to the United States at 12 years old. He spent weekends visiting his uncle in Hidden Valley Lake and had the chance to explore the region, sparking his love for the Lake County community. 

Eventually, he made his way to Clearlake where he purchased a home and has been an active member of our community ever since.

Ontiveros first joined the staff of Lake County Behavioral Health Services, or LCBHS, as a cultural specialist and ethnic services peer support specialist. 

Five years later in 2014, LCBHS created the La Voz De la Esperanza community center, appointing Ontiveros as the center’s supervisor. 

As supervisor, he works tirelessly to connect the Latino community to culturally relevant services and ensure that Spanish speakers are equipped with tools to navigate health and wellness services. 

Outside of his professional duties, Ontiveros remains dedicated to public service. He has a history of springing into action to support our community following wildfires and he serves as an ordained minister.

Congressman Thompson’s American Dream Award honors immigrants who have excelled professionally in entrepreneurship and innovation, in the arts and culture, or in community service.

The full list of 2025 American Dream Award recipients for California’s Fourth District includes:

• Edgar Ontiveros: Lake County.
• Cinthya Cisneros: Napa County.
• Riitta DeAnda: Solano County.
• Pemba Sherpa: Sonoma County.
• Andres Olmedo: Yolo County.

Thompson represents California’s Fourth Congressional District, which includes all or part of Lake, Napa, Solano, Sonoma and Yolo counties.