The White House on June 30 honored local “Champions of Change” who are doing extraordinary work to facilitate employment opportunities for individuals formerly involved in the justice system.

Father Gregory Boyle, of Homeboy Industries, was among the honorees. He is the founder and executive director of the organization, the largest gang intervention, rehabilitation and re-entry program in the U.S., now in its 25th year.

His dedication to finding a place for everyone in society brought him to the Boyle Heights community of East Los Angeles, where he served as pastor of Dolores Mission Church from 1986 through 1992. It was there that Boyle started what would become Homeboy Industries, a nonprofit organization that employs and trains more than 300 former gang-members every year in seven social enterprises. Homeboy Industries also provides critical services to the 12,000 people who walk through the doors every year seeking a better life.  He is the author of the N.Y. Times bestselling book, “Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion”.

Additionally, another Los Angeles resident, Scott Budnick, was honored. He serves as executive vice president of Todd Phillips’ production company, Green Hat Films. Budnick has executive produced many successful comedies including the highest grossing rated-R comedies in history, “The Hangover” series.

Outside of film, he is a fierce champion for children in need. Budnick is a teacher and on the advisory board for InsideOUT Writers. He also serves as a board member of the Los Angeles Conservation Corps, and on the advisory board for the Loyola Law School’s Center for Juvenile Law and Policy. He is currently launching a new production company along with growing and developing The Anti-Recidivism Coalition.

According to the White House, the champions have distinguished themselves through their extraordinary dedication and hard work to help those with criminal records re-enter society with dignity and viable employment opportunities. The program was created as an opportunity for the White House to feature individuals doing extraordinary things.