Posted March 22nd, 2016
By Kris Powers
The National Association of Social Workers’ (NASW) goal for Social Work Month 2016 (March) is to educate the public about the profession’s commitment to improving social conditions and opportunities for increased quality of life for everyone. The NASW reports that Social Workers confront some of the most challenging issues facing individuals, families, communities and society. Those in this profession work hard to forge solutions to help people reach their full potential; thereby making our nation a better place to live.
As part of the “Forging Solutions out of Challenges” campaign, the NASW is providing social workers as well as the public with education materials and activities that everyone can take part in to commemorate the month, honor social workers, and educate about the ways that social workers bring great good to our society. According to the NASW website activities include:
1) Media contest - Submit a brief video, spoken word performance, poster or photo showing how social workers have helped individuals, communities or our society create solutions and positive change out of challenging situations.
2) Film Offers – The National Association of Social Workers has partnered with two organizations to help increase access to educational films for all:
a. Gathr - The National Association of Social Workers has teamed with GATHR Films to allow social workers and their allies to host film screenings around the country.
b. The Video Project - During Social Work Month, The Video Project is offering a special deal to allow NASW members to watch four mental health and wellness films for free online and purchase the films at a 30 percent discount.
3) Letter Writing / Op-Ed Campaign – a draft letter that can be posted on blogs and other social media accounts show the public how social workers benefit society and "Forge Solutions Out of Challenges."
Social workers typically:
- Act as advocates for their clients
- Assess clients’ needs, strengths and networks to help determine their goals
- Educate clients and teach clients new skills to improve their well-being
- Link clients to essential resources within the community as well as help people navigate the social services available to them such as food stamps, child care and health care
- Help clients adjust to changes and challenges in their lives
- Protect vulnerable clients and ensure that their best interests are observed
- Work directly with patients or families as part of a patient's health care team to help them address certain needs
- Research social problems and play a valuable role in creating social policy and laws
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