Social Workers CAN Inspire: Lucy’s Story

Social Work Month is the perfect time to celebrate and appreciate our work and our profession. For Lucy Hernandez, social workers were a catalyst for growth and change that enabled her to access services and ultimately start her own consulting business, Lucy Hernandez Consulting. This month, Lucy is sharing her story and her gratitude with us, and we are proud to share it with you through a one-on-one interview and video.

Q: What happened that introduced social workers into your life?

A: I was a teen mother and faced adversity while trying to juggle a new baby, school and new life responsibilities. I did not have a family support system, therefore struggled in meeting the basic needs of both my daughter and me. My social worker introduced me to other professionals that teamed up and held my hand through a very confusing system, but they all worked on getting critical programs, services and assistance to me, so I could reunite with my daughter – and I did. 

My social worker became my advocate and helped me get on my feet, she saw me (with no judgment) and validated my struggles….she was my mentor (unofficially) because she helped me build life skills to be able to reach my goals. Even after my case was closed, she kept checking on me and was able to attend my graduation! 

I wanted to be like her one day, and today I pay it forward through my commitment and work in this field. I started as a translator and case manager and moved up the chain to become a Director for both rural and urban community-based organizations for over 20 years. Today, I am a Consultant and trainer that builds a strengths-based leadership workforce, supporting social workers and professionals serving families in children. 

Q: How have social workers impacted your life and career? 

A: My social worker inspired me to recognize my strengths and build on my potential to achieve my life goals. I wouldn’t be here without her! I have been a public servant for 24 years and my daughter is a college graduate (Business) and is starting her own company. Again, the seed of hope from my social worker did make a difference!

Q: Why is it important for you that our communities hear your story? 

A: Social Workers are not THANKED enough for their courageous work! Sometimes they never have the opportunity to hear about their impact in a family’s life. I want Social Workers to know that even though they do not see immediate results, please trust that they have planted a seed of hope in people’s lives. Like mine did! Twenty-four years later, I hope this message reaches her to thank her for believing and inspiring me to achieve my life goals. She made a huge impact in my life. She believed in my potential.   

Many of the families you work with are in a vulnerable and dark place, but if you focus on our strengths and ask us about our life goals, we begin to see that our strengths will help us navigate our case plan, beat the obstacles and aspire to reach our goals in life. I was able to get my High School Diploma, BA & MBA – all because my social workers said, “I believe in you…and you will do great things in life.” That is all I needed — someone to believe in me!

Q:  Anything else to add? 

A: Just appreciation to the hard work that Social Workers endure, as tough as it is, you are in this position for a reason, it is not a coincidence. You are the trailblazer that brings change and motivation for many of us to be the best parents we can be. You may be the only one that may hold that hand, to help guide us through our journey in life. THANK YOU!

Hear Lucy’s Story

We are incredibly grateful for Lucy, her bravery, and her willingness to join NASW-CA in thanking social workers for all they do during Social Work Month. Learn more about Lucy on her website, and explore her work through the California State Association of Counties.