News

Published on: 3/4/2021

The York County Commissioners on Wednesday issued a proclamation acknowledging that March is Social Worker Appreciation Month.

Social workers are an integral part of county government. These workers span the following departments: York/Adams Mental Health-Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities;
York/Adams Drug & Alcohol Commission; Children, Youth & Families; Area Agency on Aging; Youth Development Center; Prison; Domestic Relations and Probation Services. There are also many of our citizens employed in this profession in both the nonprofit and private sectors.

This year’s theme, “Social Workers are Essential,” is fitting amid a pandemic that has presented challenges for this critical profession. Social work seeks to improve people’s wellbeing and enhance their basic needs, especially those most vulnerable and oppressed.

The pandemic has not stopped social workers from serving people in hospitals, schools and congregate housing among other places. These workers help those suffering cope, heal and grieve.

Social workers have a practice-based vocation which are one of the largest groups of professionals that concerns itself with individuals, families, groups, communities and society,
and whose goals are to enhance social functioning and to assist in meeting both basic and complex needs in an effort to improve the overall wellbeing of those they serve.

“For generations, social workers have been helping our community in times of crisis,” said York County President Commissioner Julie Wheeler. “These workers are on the front lines dealing with issues like food insecurity, homelessness, poverty, substance abuse, and mental illness. We thank them for their passion to help those in need, their compassionate hearts, and willingness to advocate for those who may not be able to advocate for themselves.”