SPRINGFIELD, IL - State Senator William Delgado (D–Chicago) was presented today with the 2011 Legislative Leadership Award by the Illinois Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Association (IADDA). Senator Delgado has served as a champion for the organization in working to ensure addiction healthcare services are available to those who need them.

"I have work hard alongside the IADDA to educate the general public about the disease of addiction, sharing the message that addiction can be prevented, it can be treated and people can recover from it," stated Senator Delgado, Chairman of the Illinois Senate Public Health Committee. "I am honored by this recognition and look forward to continuing my work with the IADDA."

Established in 1967, the IADDA is the only statewide advocacy organization in Illinois focusing solely on substance use disorder issues. The organization represents more than 50 prevention, treatment and recovery organizations across the state.

Their mission is to advocate for people interested in the substance use disorder field, including clinicians, consumers, family members, individuals in recovery and youth.

Their goal is a healthy society where everyone benefits because alcohol/drug abuse occurs rarely, addicted people have access to effective treatment, more people are in recovery, everyone participates in prevention and health promotion, and our laws, public policies and cultures enhance everyone's well-being.