Celebrating our social workers: Here’s how they support families

by Beverly Worthington, MA, ACNP, FamilyForward Executive Director

During National Social Work Month, and every month, we celebrate the heart, expertise and commitment of our social workers in their work to support FamilyForward families.

Program Director Sarah Harte (left) and Case Manager Jessica Kim

We have two wonderful social workers on staff at FamilyForward: Sarah Harte, program director, and Jessica Kim, case manager (learn more about them). Throughout March, in the spirit of National Social Work Month, we are delighted to take this special opportunity to honor the heart, expertise and commitment that social workers — especially Sarah and Jess — bring to our communities every single day. This year’s theme, Social Work: Uplift, Defend, Transform, beautifully captures the impact we experience through their work to support families at FamilyForward through our program.

Our social workers uplift families by listening without judgment, recognizing strengths and helping parents rediscover their own resilience and possibility. They defend dignity and access — advocating within complex systems so families can secure the resources, stability and opportunities they deserve. And every day, they help transform lives by turning moments of crisis into pathways toward confidence, independence and hope.

Every social worker I’ve known has shared that they didn’t choose social work; rather, social work chose them. It is a calling as much as it is a profession. It requires deep empathy, patience, strong advocacy, and the ability to hold hope even when circumstances feel overwhelming. The difference social workers make often happens quietly, but at FamilyForward, even the most challenging days remind us that families are growing stronger because we consistently choose to show up and walk alongside them.

To all social workers — especially Sarah and Jess — thank you for accepting your calling, and for the care you give, the advocacy you lead, and the change you make possible as you support families. We celebrate you this month and every month!