It attracts people who have a strong desire to help individuals, families, communities, and our nation overcome issues that prevent them from reaching their full potential.
There are nearly 720,000 social workers in the U.S. and more than three million worldwide. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics continues to identify social work as one of the fastest-growing professions in the United States. Other government sources report there are more clinically trained social workers providing mental health and behavioral health services than any other professional discipline in the nation.
Social workers have been an integral part of our nation for decades. Social workers played key roles in the Civil Rights and Women’s Rights movements and pushed for social programs we now take for granted, including the minimum wage, a 40-hour workweek, Social Security and Medicare.
More people are entering the field because the life-affirming services that social workers provide are needed more than ever.
This is especially true as the U.S. continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, systemic racism, economic inequality, global warming, and other crises. That is why the theme for Social Work Month 2022 is The Time is Right for Social Work.
Since the first social work class was offered in 1898 at Columbia University, social workers have led the way in developing private and charitable organizations to serve people in need. Social workers continue to address the needs of society and bring the United States’ social problems to the public's attention.
Throughout U.S. history, social workers have:
Social workers are on the front lines, helping people overcome these crises. In fact, social workers are everywhere people need help navigating tough life challenges. They contribute to interdisciplinary care teams in schools, hospitals, mental health centers, nonprofits, corporations, the military and in local, state, and federal government. Many social work professionals also own private consultation practices.
I know first-hand the commitment social workers have to their profession and care for others. I’m married to one.
The care and compassion, the wisdom and integrity my wife brings to her work with the elderly every day help make our community a better place. I’m in awe of her faithful service to empower and uplift everyone she meets. Thank you, Marilyn!
Make time to thank a social worker with a handwritten note, a card, a special meal or some other tangible expression of your gratitude.
Resources
Social Work Month
Help Starts Here
The Time is Right for Social Work (video)
