Join me at the Texas NASW – National Association Of Social Workers on Oct. 8

Join me at the Texas NASW – National Association Of Social Workers on Oct. 8. I will be speaking at 2:15. http://www.naswtx.org

Founded in 1957 the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is the largest organization of professional social workers in the world, with over 155,000 members in 55 chapters. The Texas Chapter, with about 5,700 members, is the major professional social work organization in the state. NASW is committed to advancing professional social work practice and the profession; and to promoting human rights, social and economic justice, and unimpeded access to services for everyone. Its members work in a broad range of settings including hospitals and other health care settings, community agencies, government, academia, business, nursing homes, schools, and private practice.

The Chapter office is located at 810 W. 11th Street, Austin, Texas 78701-2010. The staff is available to respond to member inquiries regarding social work practice, legislative and social policy issues, continuing education, licensing issues, and other informational requests.

The Chapter has numerous branches, committees and other leadership opportunities that involve members throughout the state, and better serve the social work community. These entities work on professional, social policy, and legislative issues, sponsor conferences, and provide a source of networking for members.

NASW’s goals include improving the quality of life and ensuring that the same rights and opportunities
are enjoyed by all. In addition, NASW strives to:
• Advance the quality of social work practice, improve the knowledge base required for
practice, and promote professional development.
• Promote the strength, unity, and recognition of the social work profession and the use of
standards to protect the consumer.
• Propose and promote sound public policies and programs aimed at meeting human needs
and improving quality of life.

Have a kind and respectful day.

National Social Worker’s Month — Thanks from Viki

I want to send out a big hug to all the social workers out there making a difference in people’s lives. Thank you for doing all that you do to make sure people get what they need, are protected and empowered to live their best lives. This may be the last day of National Social Workers Month but the value of social workers lasts all year long. If you are ever in the hospital and need a person to help you get what you need, the social worker is your best ally.

Here is some information from the National Association of Social Worker’s website: http://www.naswdc.org/

* Social workers inspire community action to improve lives.
* Social workers are integral parts of a vibrant community.
* Social workers know the full range of challenges facing families of every description.
* Social workers advocate for inclusion, fairness and non-discriminatory access to services that help people reach their full potential.
* Social workers make a wide range of social contributions throughout their careers.
* Many social workers work to resolve systemic issues that negatively affect a community. Some work in education or research, and others work as elected officials, in government or as heads of nonprofit organizations to create positive sustainable change in communities.
* Most social workers serve individuals and families. Working through private practices, agencies and organizations, they provide resources and guidance that support social functioning.
* People who become professional social workers believe that there are no limits to human potential and use their talents to help others lead rewarding lives.
* Social work is a profession of hope, grounded in practical problem solving expertise.
* Social work is a desirable field of study for bright and socially engaged people of all ages.
* Professional social workers have a bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate degree in social work from a program or school of social work. Social work practice is guided by the NASW Code of Ethics.
* Social workers are employed in schools, courtrooms, drug treatment clinics, hospitals, senior centers, shelters, nursing homes, the military, disaster relief, prisons and corporations.
* Social work is relevant to the successful functioning of American society.
* Social workers are on the front lines, developing social programs that are responsive to such human needs as homelessness, poverty, family break-up , mental illness, physical and mental disability, alcohol and substance abuse, domestic violence and many other issues.

Have a kind and respectful day.