National Association of Social Workers Celebrate National Social Work Month

“Life’s Journey” theme focuses on issues related to aging

WASHINGTON DC –The National Association of Social Workers proudly announce the kickoff of National Social Work Month 2006.

This year’s theme – Life’s Journey: Help Starts Here – focuses on how social workers help all people at every stage of life, while promoting dignity for everyone, especially the most vulnerable among us.

“The ‘Graying of America’ and the lengthening of life spans put new pressures on individuals and their families,” says NASW President Elvira Craig de Silva.  “Social workers have the specialized knowledge and expertise to address these pressures.  They strive to promote independence, autonomy and dignity for their clients.”

Social workers help families deal with the stress of placing loved ones in nursing homes and assisted living communities. They refer family members to support groups and encourage them to participate in care plan meetings.

“Social workers provide a vital link between our older citizens and the health-related services they may need,” said Dr. Elizabeth Clark, executive director of NASW. “Through individual and family counseling, psychosocial assessment and coordinating care, social workers provide a range of services to fill critical gaps in long-term care.”

Social Work Month also provides an opportunity for social workers to highlight the essential role they play in alleviating some of America’s most difficult problems.  Through education, training and dedication, social workers provide assistance in many different practice areas including health, mental health, child welfare, end of life, adolescent health, HIV/AIDS and family violence. 

Social workers work with the most vulnerable to connect them with the services they need.  To find comprehensive information about the role of social work and where to go for assistance for these and other issues, visit www.HelpStartsHere.org.

“We understand that the best elder care requires a broad view of social, environmental, psychological, economic and health care options,” added Dr. Clark. “As more older Americans face the challenge of limited mobility, social workers intervene to ensure appropriate care and services are received.”

NASW chapters and organizations during National Social Work Month will help social workers across the country advocate for policies that are humane, fair, and above all beneficial to the nation’s citizens.

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), in Washington, DC, is the largest membership organization of professional social workers with 140,000 members. It promotes, develops, and protects the practice of social work and social workers. NASW also seeks to enhance the well being of individuals, families, and communities through its advocacy.