From the President

Beginning a New Year: Social Work — Courage, Hope and Leadership

By Shirley Gentilini, MSW, LCSW

Our social work profession attracts people who have courage and a willingness to help others.   As dedicated professionals social workers use their skills and knowledge to improve the lives of those who need assistance. As a helping profession, social workers practice in various specialties. To name a few, some social workers work with clients, some in academic settings with students, some in the arena of public policy and law.

Because social work encompasses so many different areas, we all have diverse experiences and challenges. Often social workers can become so busy with their particular field of practice, they may forget that as a profession we also need to be present to others in our field. Sharing ideas, new ways of dealing with problems and being open to change is a wonderful way to grow. NASW, our professional organization, is open to hearing your new ideas so that we can better serve you and other members. We are hopeful that members take advantage of the leadership of NASW. Our executive director and staff at the NASW office are very open to working with you and are interested in your ideas. You can contact your local unit chairs, attend meetings and meet with others in your region. Also we have the New Professionals Network to connect with. Board Members in their leadership positions are also open to hearing from you. They can bring your ideas and concerns to the chapter board meetings. Our professional organization, NASW, will only be as strong as members make it to be.

This past year I became more familiar with the NASW website for California and also the national website. In doing this, I learned about the many facets that our organization has to offer. CalSwift has current information about activities in your local region. The Delegate Assembly has posted the 2014 Proposed Priority Goals and Comment Forum where you can review the proposed policies and comment on them. As you access the Delegate Assembly website, use this link: Proposed 2014 Program Priority Goals and Comment Forum. Membership is a priority goal for 2014 and I encourage you to think about what your membership offers you and ask others what it means for them.

In November I attended the NASW Foundation Ceremony Awards and met two outstanding leaders; Angelo McClain, PhD, LICSW, CEO, National Association of Social Workers President and Kathleen Ell, DSW. Dr. Ell received Ruth Knee/Milton Wittman Lifetime Achievement Award in Health and Mental Health Practice. It was inspiring to learn about Dr. Ell’s commitment and work for our profession.

On December 5, as I was completing this letter, sad news came of Nelson Mandela’s death. Mr. Mandela is an exemplary example to us. This extraordinary human being and leader exhibited “Courage, Hope and Leadership.” Those who knew him well commented on his great humor and appreciation for all people. Mr. Mandala will be missed. We may never see another individual like him. His values and leadership will be an inspiration for all mankind.