Social work has come a long way since its early days. It all started in 1898 when the New York School of Philanthropy (now Columbia University School of Social Work) began training people to help others. Two trailblazing women laid the foundation for the field:
Mary Richmond: She introduced casework methods, focusing on how people’s lives are shaped by their social environments.
Jane Addams: She founded Hull House in Chicago, highlighting community-focused projects and social reform.
Psychology and sociology also helped shape social work, giving it a unique perspective that connects individuals to the larger systems around them. Social workers focus on how things like education, race, gender identity, and access to resources impact people’s lives.
Want to dive deeper into the history of social work? Check these out:
NASW: Social Work History
Social Welfare History Project
Milestones in Social Work
Social Work Through the Years
Social work has always evolved to meet society’s needs. Some key milestones include:
1955: Formation of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), which united the profession and established ethical standards.
Historical Impact: Social workers were instrumental during The New Deal, World Wars, Civil Rights Movement, and the creation of Medicare and Medicaid.
Modern Focus: Today’s social workers tackle issues like climate change, human trafficking, immigration, and refugee advocacy. They also influence public policy and engage in political advocacy.
Core Values That Drive Social Work
Despite changes over time, the heart of social work has stayed the same:
Compassion: Supporting individuals and communities with empathy.
Systemic Change: Addressing root causes of societal problems while helping individuals.
Adaptability: Evolving to handle both local and global challenges.
Education: The Foundation of Social Work
To make an impact, social workers need the right education:
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): Entry-level positions start here.
Master of Social Work (MSW): Required for specialized fields like nephrology social work and clinical practice.
Licensing: Post-graduate experience, supervision, and exams are needed to get licensed. Learn more about licensing.
Doctorate of Social Work (DSW): For those aiming for leadership, research, or teaching roles.
Curious about career paths? Explore:
NASW Degree Guide
Ready to Start Your Social Work Journey?
If you’re considering a career in social work, here are a few resources to explore:
Social work is about empowering people and driving change. Whether you’re providing direct support or advocating for systemic reform, you’re shaping a more compassionate and fair world—one step at a time.
Comentários