Recognizing National Social Work Month

March was Social Work Month, a time to recognize the invaluable contributions of social workers in our communities. In honor of this occasion, we sat down with Laura and Matai, two of our dedicated social work interns, to delve into their experiences with Family.

Laura’s Journey

Laura’s path to social work was a gradual evolution. Armed with a background in fine arts, she initially pursued a career in the arts but was looking for something more. Driven by her faith and a deep-seated belief in serving others, Laura embarked on a quest to find her true calling. After a decade of exploration and self-discovery, she discovered her passion for community service and policy engagement. Guided by her unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others, Laura found her way to social work.

At FSH, Laura applies her skills by advocating for policy changes and raising awareness about issues, such as racism, implicit biases, and racial trauma. She values the opportunity to engage with coworkers and participants from diverse cultural backgrounds, learning from their experiences and perspectives. Laura’s favorite aspects of her internship include Family Scholar Houses’ focus on employee development and the workshops for both participants and employees like art therapy sessions and domestic violence workshops.

Matai’s Journey

Matai’s journey is a very personal one; her personal experiences with social service agencies drive her desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Her decision came down to choosing between nursing and social work, Matai ultimately found her calling in the latter, drawn to the opportunity to connect with people, offer support, and advocate for positive change.

In her role at FSH, Matai applies the theories she’s learned to engage with participants and effectively address their needs. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and empathy, recognizing the emotional toll that social work can take. Matai is passionate about learning and strives to understand the intricacies of policies to advocate for fair and just reforms. Matai’s favorite part about FSH is how flexible and supportive the environment is. She feels valued and comfortable.

Lasting Thoughts

Laura and Matai highlight the importance of balance, resilience, and professional boundaries in social work. They emphasize the role of social workers as role models and advocates, highlighting the need for compassion and empathy in their interactions with others. As we celebrate Social Work Month, let us recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions of social workers like Laura and Matai, who tirelessly work to uplift and empower individuals and communities.