Too often those in our community working for health and social justice are not given the recognition they deserve. Today, we’re pleased to announce the recipients of our 2018 HMPRG Awards representing Chicago-area leaders whose work exemplifies Health & Medicine’s mission to promote social justice and challenge inequities in health and health care.
We invite also you to to join us in honoring our winners at Health & Medicine’s Awards Gala on Oct. 19, 2018 at the Chicago Cultural Center. Tickets and sponsorships are available.
Health Award: Gabriela A. Zapata-Alma, Thresholds
A social worker and certified alcohol and drug counselor, Zapata-Alma embodies the meaning of being a trauma-informed clinician committed to marginalized communities.
Medicine Award: Dr. Connie Mannella, Cermak Health Services/CCHHS
An internal medicine physician, Mannella has devoted her career to advocating for and ensuring excellent care for vulnerable incarcerated populations.
Policy Award: Jim Pickett, AIDS Foundation of Chicago
Pickett has been a tireless force behind the Illinois PrEP Working Group and PrEP4Love working to bring attention to the racial inequities in HIV and access to PrEP.
Steve Whitman Research Award: Arturo Carrillo, PhD, LCSW, Saint Anthony Hospital: Community Wellness Program
Carrillo leads community-based research focused on exploring the mental health needs of marginalized populations to develop community-driven solutions to facilitate access to services.
Group Awards: Broadway Youth Center and Latino Union of Chicago
The Broadway Youth Center, a program of Howard Brown Health, serves as a critical entry-point to long-term, comprehensive care for marginalized or homeless LGBTQ youth.
Latino Union is a leading force defending the rights and dignity of contingent workers, including the right to immigrate, work, live free of oppression and violence, and provide for oneself and one’s family.
Emerging Leader Award: Cecil Qiu, Second Opinions, NFP
A committed community volunteer, Qiu has shown his dedication and passion for bringing high-quality, comprehensive health care to low-income Chicagoans, as well as finding innovative ways to improve care.