Tedford Housing, the Brunswick-based organization that provides shelter for homeless individuals and families, has been recognized as a leader in nonprofit excellence.

Executive Director Don Kniseley said Tedford received the Dirigo Award at the Maine Association of Nonprofits annual conference May 8.

The award, which was established last year, rewards and encourages organizations that are continually innovating, experimenting and improving their operations to better accomplish their social missions.

Tedford Housing is an independent nonprofit organization founded by the Brunswick Interfaith Council in 1987. Its mission is to work to end homelessness in the Midcoast.