March is an important time to recognize the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to support individuals and communities in need. It’s Social Work Month, a time to honor the impactful work of social workers and raise awareness about the critical role they play in our society.
Social workers are often unsung heroes, working on the front lines to provide assistance to people facing challenges such as mental health issues, poverty, domestic violence, substance abuse, and much more. From schools and hospitals to government agencies and non-profit organizations, social workers are essential to ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to the resources they need to thrive.
This year’s theme for Social Work Month is “Compassion + Action.” Social workers care about people. That is why so many people enter social work each year, making it one of the fastest growing professions in the country. However, social workers go through years of education and training so they can help individuals, families, communities and our society reach their full potential.
In the days ahead, social workers will be called to turn their compassion into action to help our nation address a variety of societal challenges. Social workers are also on the forefront of helping our nation address a mental health and substance use disorder crisis and chronic income inequality that has led to rising homelessness.
The pandemic highlighted the importance of social work in society, with many stepping up to offer virtual support, help clients access services, and respond to the increased demand for mental health resources. Social workers have continued to adapt, using innovative solutions to continue offering vital support to communities.
As we celebrate Social Work Month, we acknowledge the resilience, compassion, and expertise that social workers bring to their work every day. Whether in a clinical setting, school, or community center, social workers are dedicated to creating positive change, helping people to overcome adversity, and improving lives. Let’s take a moment to thank them for their unwavering commitment to making our communities a better place.
Are you caring for an older adult or need help finding healthy aging resources? Our experienced staff is available to help. Visit us online at www.agespan.org. You can also call 800-892-0890 or email info@agespan.org.
Joan Hatem-Roy is the chief executive officer of AgeSpan, which serves the following cities and towns: Amesbury, Andover, Billerica, Boxford, Chelmsford, Danvers, Dracut, Dunstable, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lowell, Marblehead, Merrimac, Methuen, Middleton, Newbury, Newburyport, North Andover, Peabody, Rowley, Salisbury, Salem, Tewksbury, Tyngsboro, Westford, and West Newbury.
First published in the Eagle-Tribune.
