Advocacy Stories

Over the years, I've continued to appreciate the NASW's influence, especially when it comes to Medicaid coverage and regulations around private practice. Their lobbying efforts have helped ensure that LCSWs like myself can serve some of our most vulnerable populations.

– Trever Roberts

Becoming a delegate assembly member for the California chapter of NASW has been an incredible honor. Seeing the diverse and upcoming leadership has filled me with excitement for the direction our profession is headed. I'm thrilled to be a part of that change and growth.

– Eddison Jintalan Contreras

I can trace my passion for social work back to my undergraduate and graduate school days. That's when I was first introduced to the field and everything it had to offer. The advocacy and support for social workers really resonated with me…Once I began my social work classes, everything just clicked. I finally have found my true calling.

– Kathrine Rachel Beckman Shaull

If I could offer one piece of advice to those considering a career in social work, it would be to embrace the profound importance of systems and communities within the social work field. The social environment and its intricacies hold immense value, and understanding the significance of these factors is essential to providing the best possible care for our clients.

– Hillary Stern

We can apply our skills in so many different industries and make a meaningful difference. NASW really champions the belief that social workers are 'change makers' who see, appreciate, and thank one another for this vital work. This is why I'm proud to be a social worker.

– Samantha L. Van Bogart

Currently, I am the chair of NASW's Children, Adolescents, and Youth (CAA) committee, which aligns with my passion for addressing the needs of young people. This committee work is among the most important initiatives to me, as it allows me to advocate for and support vulnerable populations I care deeply about.

– Craig Knippenberg

I’ve always been interested in political science. I knew I wanted to enter politics and government. I loved my coursework, but I noticed that I was missing an emphasis on people and service and really understanding policy as it impacts the human experience.

– Isaac Carreno

I was brought up in foster care for the first 12 years of my life. I experienced every type of abuse that you can probably imagine. Something inside of me knew that I wanted to prevent other people from having to experience what I and my siblings I grew up in foster care with experienced.

– Jamila J. Woods