February 28, 2010….March is National Social Work month, and social workers across the country are being honored for the impact they have made on the individuals and families whose lives they have touched and strengthened.

In celebration of the month, the Citizens Welfare Division, within the Ministry of Social Transformation will celebrate the profession, reflect on its history and acknowledge the important work being done.

Minister of Social Transformation Wilmoth Daniel said our social workers have dedicated their careers to ensure that everyone is afforded the same basic rights, opportunities and respect that we all deserve.

“Everyday our social workers help people from all walks of life through individual and family counseling, advocacy, assessment and coordinating care. Undoubtedly social workers provide a range of services to fill critical needs. I am honoured to recognize such dedicated human service professionals.” Minister Daniel said.

The theme for this year’s celebration is, “Promoting Partnership for Effective and Efficient Social Service Delivery.”

Chief Welfare Officer Faustina Jarvis said the theme encapsulates the close working relationship with various entities of the private and public sector.

“The majority of social workers function within the government establishment, which does not have the human and financial resource to allow the programme to be as effective as it should be. Therefore we have to tap into other resources so that our delivery of service will have some effectiveness. We commend and applaud those individuals who have extended a helping hand to our clients so that their situation can be improved.” Jarvis said.

A number of activities will be held throughout the month of March including outreach programmes in several schools, public awareness campaigns, re-registration of foster children and a street fair.

“I am happy to recognize our dedicated and committed social workers who have chosen to serve, despite the challenges they face, as we continue to work along with the disenfranchised within Antigua and Barbuda.” Jarvis said.