Social Work Month in March highlights the important role of social workers in our society
February 22, 2022
Social Work Month in March highlights the important role of social workers in our society
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) will help lead the 2022 Social
Work Month celebration in March with the theme “The Time is Right for Social Work,” which
underscores the contributions social workers have made to this nation for more than a century and how
the services they provide are needed more than ever as our nation addresses economic inequality,
systemic racism, the need for improved health and mental health care, Covid-19 and other issues.
The annual Social Work Month campaign is a time to inform public, policymakers, and legislators about
the services social workers provide in an array of sectors, including hospitals, mental health centers,
schools, social service agencies, community centers and in politics.
People become social workers because they have a strong desire to help others and make our society a
better place to live for all. Social work is one of the fastest growing professions in the United States,
according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). There are almost 720,000 professional social workers in
our nation, but that number is expected to rise to more than 800,000 by 2030, BLS said.
Social workers have helped drive significant, positive changes in our nation. Social workers such as social
reformer Jane Addams, former Labor Secretary Frances Perkins, and civil rights leaders Dorothy Height,
Whitney Young and Ida B. Wells have pushed for voting rights, equal rights, Social Security,
unemployment insurance, and other programs.
Social workers touch millions of lives each day and it is likely a social worker at some time will assist you,
a family member, or a friend. For example, are you a student who needs athletic shoes to participate in
sports, but your parents can’t afford to buy them? Talk to your school social worker. They can help you
find the resources you need. Do you want a better relationship with your spouse, partner, children, or
parents? A social worker can help you forge stronger connections. Are you living with depression,
anxiety, or a substance use disorder? A social worker can help you overcome them and thrive.
Social workers continue to work on the frontlines throughout the pandemic, helping clients get the
health care they need and helping loved ones overcome grief and loss. Social workers will continue to
play a key role in helping people as this nation grapples with issues such as racism, economic
uncertainty, deep political and cultural differences, and natural disasters fueled by global warming.
However, social workers need your support, too. There is a shortage of social workers in schools, child welfare and
other sectors where they are vitally needed.
“Each day, social workers empower millions of Americans so they can live life to their fullest potential.
Social workers also work in communities and in politics to improve living conditions for all. During Social
Work Month we urge you to learn more about our amazing profession, thank the social workers in your
lives, and help support the profession.”
