Dear Editor:
Social Work Month comes around every year in March, and this year the NASW (National Association of Social Workers) chose the theme “The Time is Right for Social Work.” It is both a very exciting time and yet a very trying time to be a professional social worker.
Social workers have served as leaders, advocates, educators as well as champions of human rights. Social workers are known for having in mind the inner purpose of helping their chosen population achieve their highest possible human potential. Social work has also become a fast-growing profession. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2020 there are over 715,600 professional social workers in the nation.
It was my own personal immigration issues shaped my decision to become a social worker. I see myself in my students—because I was once one of them. As an immigrant, I knew that I wanted to make a difference, especially with the immigration population. I particularly chose to work in the school system because I wanted to directly impact a child’s life. Like ripples in a pond, I kept in mind not only how to improve the lives of the students, but also how to make a lasting impact in their immediate family and community.
According to a Rutgers study in 2017, 14 % of NJ children (more than 285,000) lived below the federal poverty level. Just one factor (poverty) can have a direct impact on a child’s overall social emotional well-being.
There is a role to play for each of us and the time is now. Remind elected officials to address issues like economic standing, dealing with discrimination, the need for affordable housing, and mental health. Approach a social worker and learn more about their chosen profession and find ways to support their life affirming work.
Sandy Alzubi, LSW
