S ocial workers — professionals who fill some of the more thankless jobs in society — were honored by Monticello — both the city and the university there.
The first thought that came to mind was more of a question of — when do social workers ever get recognized, much less honored? Everyone knows their dentist and doctor and certainly their plumber, but likely they don’t know a social worker because their jobs are so specific to dire circumstances, or so it seems.
But there in Monticello, the Department of Social Work at the University of Arkansas branch in that town and the city itself stopped what they were doing to celebrate social workers via a lunch and speaker with the theme: Compassion plus Action.
“Social workers plant seeds of change, offering comfort and support in times of crisis,” said Monticello Mayor Jason Akers. “Their work may not always be visible, but it is essential and creates a foundation for lasting change.”
“In times of crisis” may be the key phrase in what Akers said. If one is, indeed, reaching out for a social worker, it’s because someone is headed for suffering in one or more aspects of their lives and only a social worker knows how to connect that person with life-saving programs that will make life somewhat easier.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
In today’s world, we can’t imagine a harder job, given recent changes at the federal level that will reduce the number of people receiving food stamps (now called SNAP) and Medicaid due to a new work requirement. In short, social workers will need to navigate a new landscape in which more people need help but there are fewer places to find that help. The ground beneath their feet must always feel as though it’s shifting.
As Akers said, investing in social workers is “like planting trees for future generations — their impact grows beyond what can be seen, shaping lives and communities in ways that will benefit generations to come.”
Clinton Young, a dean at the school, said the event was “about expressing gratitude for these workers’ unwavering commitment to making a difference.”
UAM’s Marie Jenkins, who coordinated the event, said the impact of social workers extends far. “Through compassion, advocacy and empowerment,” she said, “our students and alumni continue to shape stronger communities, fostering change that resonates far beyond the classroom and into the heart of societies.”
Yes, can you imagine what that heart of society would consist of without these folks? It’s scary.
Social workers help keep the wheels turning in ways that most people will never realize. It was nice that Monticello collectively recognized them — and that fact.