Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch and the National Association of Social Workers Celebrate National Social Work Month in March 2009

If you’re looking to find a sense of purpose in your work, consider the countless possibilities of the social work profession. Social workers are society’s safety net, providing vital resources and support to those who need it most. Pursuing a career in social work satisfies your sense of purpose, while providing infinite possibilities for your career path.

Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, along with the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), proudly celebrate National Social Work Month 2009.

This year’s theme - Social Work: Purpose and Possibility—highlights the special characteristics of individuals who choose social work as a profession. Social workers are purpose-driven, compassionate individuals who work across a range of areas to help those most vulnerable in our society. Social workers have a vital role in hospitals, help children in schools reach their educational goals, provide treatment at mental health facilities and play many other fundamental roles in our community.

“People who are looking for a career with meaning, action, diversity, satisfaction, and an abundance of options are often drawn to social work,” says Elizabeth Clark, PhD, ACSW, MPH, executive director of NASW. “Social workers are highly trained professionals who care about people, who want to make things better, who want to relieve suffering, who want their work to make a difference.”

Social workers believe there are no limits to human potential, and use their talents to help others create better lives for themselves and for their families. Some social workers help clients who face a disability or a life-threatening disease. Some assist families that have domestic conflicts involving children or spousal abuse. Other social workers conduct research, advocate for improved services, or are involved in policy development.

This year, NASW has developed a “50 Ways to Use Your Social Work Degree” Web site at www.50ways.helpstartshere.org.  This tool showcases the various ways in which actual social workers are working with individuals, families and communities—and explores what experiences and interests led them to the profession.

To honor the achievements of its members and highlight the important work of social workers, Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch would like to express our gratitude. Each of you demonstrates integrity, pride and a willingness to help out when needed, come to work to meet the needs of clients, families, and mission of Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch. With that, we want to sincerely Thank You for you time, effort, and dedication throughout the Year. Please express your gratitude to our Social Workers by taking them to lunch, offering your time and assistance, or just saying Thank You.

“If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is 'thank you', it will be enough.” ~ Meister Eckhart

About the National Association of Social Workers

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW), in Washington, D.C., is the largest membership organization of professional social workers with nearly 150,000 members in 56 chapters throughout the United States and its territories.  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 for social justice.

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