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Heroes in the Fight^sm

The fight against mental illness is waged in countless ways by countless heroes. From the mother fighting to reclaim her son, to the social worker looking for clients lost to the streets, to the policeman who knows when someone needs medical help, not prison time – these are the souls who make a difference. By making one life better. One family stronger. One burden lighter. Do you know a hero like this, someone who is unrelenting in the fight?

Help us recognize their commitment to the fight against severe mental illness. Nominate a hero today!

What: Heroes in the Fight^sm is a recognition partnership program established and sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company to celebrate dignity, courage, hope, and recovery in the ongoing treatment of persons with severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI) by recognizing “heroes” who provide care and support for these individuals and their families. The program recognizes and celebrates the heroic work of many people who fight for better mental health and better lives on a daily basis in their community. Persons who best exemplify ongoing care and dedication in this field are nominated by their peers within the local mental health community.

Why: Too often the work of individuals in the mental health field is unseen or even stigmatized by the general public. Although mental illnesses cannot be cured, victories occur whenever individuals with mental illness fight for better outcomes and better lives, and work with caregivers to achieve their goals. It takes ongoing dedication from many professionals to help individuals with mental illness achieve successful results. Those being recognized as “heroes in the fight” exemplify the best in our community, as well as the kind of care and support that is provided by so many professionals in our community every day.

Who: Six local individuals and one team will be recognized. Each nominee is recognized with a congratulatory letter and small recognition item. In honor of each winner, Lilly will make a $500 donation to a local non-profit organization supporting mental health. Donation recipients are chosen by NAMI Sonoma County.

Local “heroes” will be recognized in the following categories:

• Individual Psychiatrist (1 award recipient)
• Individual Allied Healthcare Professionals (multiple award recipients)
  • Psychiatric Nurse
  • Physician Assistant
  • Nurse Practitioner
  • Psychologist
  • Pharmacist
  • Counselor
  • Social Worker
  • Case Manager>
  • Therapist
  • Assertive Community Treatment Member
  • Continuing Ed Coordinator
  • In-service Coordinator
  • Intake Worker / Crisis Worker
  • Other healthcare professionals who work in the SPMI field
• Individual Community Supporters (Professionals who do not meet criteria for Allied Health Professionals, e.g. Police Officer, EMT, Judge, etc - multiple award recipients)
  • Judge
  • Community Advocate
  • Policy Maker
  • Lawyer
  • Corrections Staff
  • Law Enforcement Staff
  • Government Agency Employee
  • Diversity Outreach Program Staff
• Individual Media Professional (1 award recipient)
  • Journalist
  • Reporter
  • Other
• Treatment Team (1 award recipient)
  • Broad category from small group to an entire facility

The Heroes in the Fight  recognition program is made possible by the generosity and sponsorship of Eli Lilly and Company.

For further info: Stephanie Blount 317-538-3103 x231 or Rosemary Milbrath 707-527-6655.

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