The Welcoming Center to honor leaders championing the contributions of immigrants at the Solas Awards

January 29, 2019 – Philadelphia, PA – Welcoming Center for New Pennsylvanians will be holding its annual fundraising gala, the 2019 Solas Awards, on February 28, 2019, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. The funds raised through the gala benefit the Welcoming Center’s core programs that provide critical support to immigrants and refugees in the region.

The mission of the Welcoming Center is to promote inclusive economic growth through immigrant integration. “We are committed to fostering a more welcoming and inclusive community, where immigrants and refugees are recognized for the skills and knowledge they bring to our region,” said Peter Gonzales, president and CEO of the Welcoming Center. “Welcoming works to make our region more diverse and more competitive in today’s global economy.”

This year’s Solas Awards honorees:

Dennis Clark Solas Award: This award was created in 2001 to pay tribute to Dennis Clark who was an ardent and tireless advocate for peace, justice, and equality. It is given to those whose vision, voice, and achievements inspire us all. Dr. Bhavna Shyamalan, Co-Founder and Vice President of the M. Night Shyamalan Foundation will be given the Dennis Clark Solas Award for her leadership, vision, and tireless advocacy for advancing human rights and addressing social injustice around the world.

Atlas Award for Advancing Opportunity Award: This award recognizes business leaders and organizations that understand the benefits of attracting and retaining diverse talent and pursue innovative ways to create opportunities for economic growth in our region. The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia will be given the Atlas Award for Advancing Opportunity for recognizing the role of immigrants in strengthening the region’s economy, contributing to the workforce, and revitalizing and stabilizing our neighborhoods.

To support the immigrant community through the Welcoming Center or for more information about the event, you can call 215-779-6443 or email eric@welcomingcenter.org.
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