On Monday, April 24, 2017 Deborah’s Place staff, board, and volunteers, along with representatives from Presence Saint Joseph Hospital attended a reception where Deborah’s Place was presented with the 2017 Inspire Award.

The Presence Saint Joseph Hospital Inspire Award is presented annually to a community leader or organization who exemplifies the values that inspire the hospital’s outreach to the community. The Award recognizes inspirational leadership from an individual or organization who has gone above and beyond the call of duty to advance the well-being of communities the hospital serves.

While accepting the award, CEO Audrey Thomas spoke of Deborah’s Place within the community, “While we are grateful for this wonderful recognition this evening, we are keenly aware that we do not do our work alone.  The poet John Donne said, No man is an island, entire of itself…  No human service organization is an island either.  We are part of a network of organizations and agencies who work tirelessly to weave a safety net for vulnerable people who are without material resources and support.”

“We all share a vision of a community where every woman has affordable housing and leads a safe, healthy and empowered life.” Deborah’s Place is honored to be the recipient of this award. Together, with Presence Saint Joseph Hospital we will continue working toward improving the lives of women experiencing homelessness in Chicago.


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