On Oct. 15, 2009, Places for People (PfP) will accept a first place “2009 Lilly Reintegration Award” from The Center for Reintegration at its 13th annual awards ceremony in Indianapolis, Ind. Sponsored by Eli Lilly & Company (NYSE:LLY), the national awards program honors treatment teams, individuals, programs and services that provide assistance to people with severe mental illness.

As a first place recipient in the Housing Services category, PfP receives a $5,000 grant helping to continue its comprehensive housing support and services to people living with mental illness. Since its inception in 1972, PfP has assisted thousands of individuals with serious psychiatric disorders to live independently in the community.

“Our staff is honored by this recognition,” says PfP’s Executive Director Francie Broderick. “We hope this recognition reinforces our strong belief that housing is health care and stable, safe housing is a critical component in helping people recover from serious psychiatric disorders.”

Part of the Lilly event includes a day-long forum where Broderick and her peers share best practices and learn about public relations, fundraising, transitional employment and other related topics.

javascript:void(0) “It is our duty to create an awareness that helps change public perception,” says Broderick. “By working together and comparing stories we can help our clients reach their fullest potential.”

Since 1997, the Lilly awards program has celebrated the achievements of people who dedicate themselves to improving the lives of individuals with serious mental illnesses, and the achievements of those living with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder that battle tremendous odds to improve their own lives and the lives of their peers.

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