Addiction among women is increasing. In the past few years women have been quickly closing the gap with men in alcohol and chemical dependency addiction. They are increasingly likely to drink and use drugs at earlier ages than ever before. Medical professionals now know that women progress more quickly towards addiction than men; research indicates this is due to hormonal differences and metabolism. For women, serious substance abuse-related diseases also develop more quickly. Yet women often experience more stigma and shame when attempting to deal with chemical dependency issues.
We are asking you can help recognize someone who has opened doors to women and families in need of chemical dependency treatment. The Nichols Leadership Award, named for its original endower, Ann Nichols, was created to honor an individual or organization working in the field of chemical dependency that has helped women and their families overcome addiction and embrace a life of recovery.
The Nichols award is presented annually by Residence XII, a chemical dependency treatment facility for women and their families in Kirkland, WA. Nominations are open to the public and the winner is chosen by an independent selection committee comprised of the Executive Director of Residence XII and two industry professionals who have no formal affiliation or ties with Residence XII. Previous winners of the Nichols Leadership award are: Jean Sullivan, Jacque Wallace, Lorie Dwinell, Ann Forbes, Val Roney, Marceil Ten Eyck, Beth Dannhardt and Greta Kruger. The winner will be honored at a reception in May where they will receive recognition and a cash honorarium funded by the initial endowment for this award.
The official nomination form is enclosed and must be completed along with a statement of up to 500 words describing the nominee’s activities and an explanation of why this individual or organization is a strong candidate for The Nichols Leadership Award. Other appropriate supporting materials may also be submitted along with the form and statement. Additional nomination forms can be obtained by calling Residence XII at (425) 823-8844 or (800) 776-5944 or downloading the form from the Residence XII website, www.residencexii.org. The deadline for submitting nominations is March 12, 2010. Please note that current employees of Residence XII are not eligible for nomination.
One person, or one organization, with true passion, commitment and knowledge can initiate changes that make a difference in the lives of many. Help us recognize one of those whose mission has been to help women and their families along the path to recovery! We look forward to hearing from you.
Download the Official Nomination Form