Mission, Vision, Values & Goals

The Mental Illness Research Association (MIRA) is a Southeastern Michigan based non-profit organization. MIRA's purpose is to find cures for mental illnesses and other brain disorders through funding brain research. MIRA also works to educate and erase the destructive myths surrounding the stigma of mental illness that block proper diagnosis and treatment for millions of Americans each year.

 MIRA was established in 1993 by Patrick Elwell, Sr. and a group of friends in a back room of Patrick's Restaurant in Auburn Hills, Michigan. Some had family members with mental illness and others were interested professionals or simply people who realized a need and wanted to help.

MIRA's work has resulted in positive progress. We have funded over twenty-five research grants for scientists whose work has provided valuable insight into the physical basis of mental illnesses. We have educated thousands about mental illnesses and the stigma that results in barriers to treatment and recovery.

Mission

The Mental Illness Research Association is dedicated to funding research for brain diseases and disorders and erasing stigma by providing educational programs in the community and schools.

Vision

Since our inception seventeen years ago, MIRA has funded research for autism, depression, Alzheimer's, schizophrenia, Parkinson's, addictive disorders, geriatric depression, bi-polar depression, suicide and others.  Additionally, MIRA has worked with over 800 schools in Michigan, several churches, other civic organizations and with corporate heads of Human Resource departments, to provide them with the most current information available on brain disorders.  Working together with the corporate and private sector, MIRA is determined to be a significant funding source and advocate for brain research and education.

Goals

What amazes the original founders of MIRA is that unseasoned volunteers came together in 1993 and succeeded in raising $100,000. That initial success strengthened MIRA's resolve to continue to deliver much needed funds into mental illness research and to let the world know of research achievements.

As we enter our seventeenth year, we reaffirm our dedication to achieving the following goals:

Research

MIRA will support the efforts of brain researchers through the provision of seed funding for crucial research into the physiological elements of brain disorders and in the recognition of their accomplishments.

Fundraising

MIRA will raise funds through special events, corporate sponsorships, donor support and targeted fundraising efforts to continue our important research and education programs.

Awareness

MIRA will improve awareness of mental illnesses and their successful treatments through the development and delivery of awareness programs to schools, communities, and the workplace.

Understanding

MIRA will reduce stigma and improve understanding, attitudes, and behaviors regarding mental illnesses through public education and improved access to information.