Chapter Leader Knows the Power of Social Workers Working Together

Boardroom

By Paul R. Pace

“I wanted to serve as president of the NASW Arizona Chapter, because I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is when social workers come together,” says Katie Mommaerts, PhD, LCSW. “NASW has always been a strong voice for our profession in Arizona, and I wanted to give back to an organization that has given me so much.”

Mommaerts says more than anything, she wanted to help social workers feel connected and supported in their work. “This role gives me the chance to work with an incredible group of people who care deeply about social justice, ethical practice, and building up the next generation of leaders.”

Mommaerts is executive director for Postpartum Support International-Arizona Chapter, a nonprofit that provides perinatal mental health services across the state—especially for underserved and Medicaid-eligible families.

Before becoming chapter president, Mommaerts served in several other chapter roles: board member, chapter liaison, vice president, president-elect, and committee chair.

“I got into social work because I wanted to help youth and their families,” she says. “When I started volunteering, I saw how many families were up against challenges they couldn’t fix on their own. That really stuck with me and pushed me toward a career where I could support people directly while also working to change the bigger systems that impact their lives.”

Volunteering makes a huge difference, she notes. “I think it’s so important for social workers to volunteer with their professional association because we need each other. NASW gives us a way to stand together on the issues that matter most, and it’s also a way to find community and support as professionals. When we show up for one another and for the profession, we’re stronger—and that strength allows us to better serve the people and communities who count on us.”