National Social Work Month Spotlight: Impactful Stories from 3 Social Workers on the GHR Team
March 14, 2024
In honor of National Social Work Month, we'd like to shine a spotlight on some of the incredible social workers on the GHR team. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for their support and services has skyrocketed, making their role in our communities more crucial than ever. Social workers are the backbone of many communities, offering unwavering dedication, empathy, and expertise that make a real difference in people's lives.
Through their inspiring stories, we'll gain a deeper understanding of what drives them, the obstacles they conquer, and the ever-evolving role of social workers in our society.
Get ready to meet Enijah, Jasmine, and Trena – three incredible social workers making a difference!
Enijah, LCSW
Q: Social work is a dynamic and impactful career path. Could you share what inspired you to pursue a career as a social worker in your chosen specialty and the journey that led you to work with GHR?
A: My journey to becoming a social worker was not linear as I started graduate school at LSU studying Public Health. My program director sent out an email during the Spring semester of my first year which discussed a new dual degree program for MSW/MPH which would begin that fall 2017. I decided to apply, was accepted, and ultimately graduated in May 2019 with my Masters of Social Work with a Specialization in Gerontology.
That is where my Social Work journey technically began, however, I think my relationship with my great grandmother really sparked my desire to be in this helping profession. I am very close to her and have always valued the wisdom she is able to provide me. Since childhood she has always told me that I needed to work with geriatric populations because I was kind, patient, and really cared about making sure their concerns were addressed and needs were met - hers included. I decided to work with GHR because of the opportunities offered to practice social work in different regions across the country, and quite frankly, because I have a great relationship with my recruiter who by sheer coincidence is a Social Worker as well.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in social work, especially in terms of the dedication and skills required to excel in this field?
A: To be a successful social worker requires strong ethics, integrity, empathy, the ability to build rapport, proficient assessment skills, an open mind, and great self-care. I believe if you possess those qualities along with a humanitarian spirit and desire to better the world, you will find success in the field.
Also, it is important for people considering Social Work to understand the importance of continuing education. I encourage new and potential Social Workers to know that no matter your choice to practice at the Micro, Mezzo, or Macro level, it is okay if you do not know everything. The purpose of seeking supervision, consulting with colleagues, asking questions, and engaging in continuing education is to ensure we are constantly increasing our knowledge and polishing our skills.
In your experience, how has the role of a social worker evolved over the years, and what trends do you see shaping the future of the field?
A: The number and type of jobs social workers can do are limitless. For example, I recently spoke with a friend who is pursuing a career in Veterinary Social Work; how cool! There are still misconceptions about the social work field, particularly one that suggests social work careers only involve removing children from their homes; however, I do see that more light is being shed on TV and social media about what social workers actually do and the wide range of opportunities within this field. I believe the more people, companies, and organizations are educated about our skill sets and the services we can provide, the more social work roles we will continue to see.
As we celebrate Social Work Month, we'd love to know something fun about you outside your professional life. Can you share a hobby, interest, or a story about your life when you aren't on the job?
A: When I'm not working I love to travel, cook and bake new recipes, take myself on movie dates, try new restaurants, spend time with my family and friends, and binge-watch TV. I pretty much watch any and everything produced by Dick Wolf (Law and Order SVU, Chicago Med, etc). I'm also a big planner so a lot of my friends and family come to me about things to do in the places they are traveling, which I enjoy.
Jasmine, LCSW
Q: Social work is a dynamic and impactful career path. Could you share what inspired you to pursue a career as a social worker in your chosen specialty and the journey that led you to work with GHR?
A: I finally landed my dream job after graduating college as a Case Manager at a non-profit. I was sharing my career goals with my supervisors and they told me I could do all that and more as a Social Worker. I took some time to research social work, and they were right. I could do everything and so much more with a Masters in Social Work. Needless to say, my plan for graduate school switched. I became familiar after I transitioned to the inpatient setting from working outpatient for the majority of my social work career. I was a traveler looking for an assignment and was connected to my recruiter Caroline for an assignment.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in social work, especially in terms of the dedication and skills required to excel in this field?
A: The dedication required to excel as a Social Worker is important. Because of the challenging nature of the profession you will face moments when you want to choose another career. But because of your dedication, you will remember your why and be motivated to continue the work you have chosen to do. Each day you are requested to use critical thinking skills to make decisions. You are taking all the information you have as well as your training to make the requested decision. Also you will be able to consult with other Social Workers to seek advice.
In your experience, how has the role of a social worker evolved over the years, and what trends do you see shaping the future of the field?
A: According to NASW Social Workers are needed more than ever! This shows how pivotal our work as Social Workers are in the lives of the people we serve. I see the profession as a whole being respected by other professions. I see communities embracing the need for Social Workers in schools, hospitals, mental health clinics and in places where traditionally Social Workers were not represented in the past. I see Social Workers advocating for changes that will make a positive impact in the profession.
As we celebrate Social Work Month, we'd love to know something fun about you outside your professional life. Can you share a hobby, interest, or a story about your life when you aren't on the job?
A: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, traveling, reading, volunteering and activities with my sorority (Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.) outside of being a Social Worker. I also enjoy going to football games and concerts. In 2023, I was able to visit Paris which is somewhere I have always wanted to visit!
Trena, MSW
Q: Social work is a dynamic and impactful career path. Could you share what inspired you to pursue a career as a social worker in your chosen specialty and the journey that led you to work with GHR?
A: As a child, I had always wanted to help others in need. It came as my first response throughout my life, which led me into a professional career of serving others in the capacity to help. Transitioning into travel Social Work has given me the opportunity to grow and learn new skills while adjusting to new cultures and systems of operations. Which has given me a humbling experience as well as to support my family!
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in social work, especially in terms of the dedication and skills required to excel in this field?
A: Having a heart to serve is #1 no matter the race, economic status, or presenting problems. You must be giving of yourself. You must be willing to think outside of the box to get the job done. One successful outcome outweighs the difficult challenges. Just know you have done your best.
In your experience, how has the role of a social worker evolved over the years, and what trends do you see shaping the future of the field?
A: I see a shift in the growth and need for Social Workers due to global hardship pressed upon the community. I see the increase in Technology shaping the profession of Social Work, which allows online platforms and interdisciplinary collaborations with a renewed focus on social justice and diversity.
As we celebrate Social Work Month, we'd love to know something fun about you outside your professional life. Can you share a hobby, interest, or a story about your life when you aren't on the job?
A: Outside of work you can find me at a sports game, spending time with my family, gardening, outside in nature, and eating good Southern food!!!
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you Enijah, Jasmine, Trena, and all the social workers who dedicate their lives to helping others. Your work is truly invaluable. We are inspired by their passion, commitment, and the positive impact they make on the world – Happy National Social Work Month!
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