NASW-NJ FOCUS - November 2020 by socialworkers

NOVEMBER 2020 •Vol 30.3

The Spirit of Giving

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SOCIAL WORK R E G U L AT I O N S U P DAT E

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ANNUAL CONFERENCE SNEAK PEEK

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS P R E S I D E N T, Nkechi Okoli

P R E S I D E N T- E L E C T, Widian Nicola

1 S T V I C E P R E S I D E N T, Judyann McCarthy

2 N D V I C E P R E S I D E N T, Dawn Konrady C E N T R A L R E G I O N A L R E P, Caelin McCallum

S E C R E TA RY, Ralph Cuseglio N O R T H E A S T R E G I O N A L R E P, Sierra Spriggs

G R A D UAT E S T U D E N T R E P, Jennifer Sorensen

S O U T H E R N R E G I O N A L R E P, Miriam Stern

U N D E RG R A D UAT E S T U D E N T R E P, Jamie Terrone

N O R T H W E S T R E G I O N A L R E P, Veronica Grysko-Sporer

UNIT LEADERS

NASW-NJ has 12 units across the state of New Jersey. ATLANTIC/CAPE MAY/CUMBERLAND CHAIR, Janelle Fleming

HUDSON CHAIR, Jillian Holguin

MORRIS

BERGEN/PASSAIC

MERCER/BURLINGTON CHAIR, Miguel Williams CO-CHAIR: Michele Shropshire

SOMERSET/HUNTERDON

MIDDLESEX

SUSSEX/WARREN

CHAIR, Tina Maschi

CHAIR, Dina Morley

CO-CHAIR: Vimmi Surti

CO-CHAIR, Afifa Ansari

ESSEX

MONMOUTH/OCEAN

UNION

CHAIR, Felicia Fdyfil-Horne CO-CHAIR, Ravjit Sekhon

CHAIR, Jeanne Koller CO-CHAIR, Denise Gaetano

CHAIR , Hannah Korn-Heilner

CHAIR, Melissa Donahue

CAMDEN/GLOUCESTER/SALEM CHAIR, Danielle Cranmer

CHAIR, Cheryl Cohen CO-CHAIR, Veronica Grysko-Sporer

CHAIR, Margaret Ryan

CHAPTER OFFICE E X E C U T I V E D I R E C TO R

D I R E C TO R O F M E M B E R S E RV I C E S

Jennifer Thompson, MSW

Christina Mina, MSW

jthompson.naswnj@socialworkers.org or ext. 111

D I R E C TO R O F D E V E LO PM E N T & E D U C AT I O N Helen French hfrench.naswnj@socialworkers.org or ext. 122

D I R E C TO R O F S P E C I A L P ROJ E C T S Annie Siegel, MSW asiegel.naswnj@socialworkers.org or ext. 128

cmina.naswnj@socialworkers.org or ext. 117

D I R E C TO R O F A DVO C AC Y & C OM MU N I C AT I O N S Jeff Feldman, MSW, LSW jfeldman.naswnj@socialworkers.org or ext. 114

A R T D I R E C TO R Katherine Girgenti kgirgenti.naswnj@socialworkers.org or ext. 129

M E M B E R S H I P A N D E D U C AT I O N S P E C I A L I S T Willis Williams wwilliams.naswnj@socialworkers.org or ext. 110

N A S Wâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; N J C H A P T E R O F F I C E 30 Silverline Drive, Suite 3, North Brunswick, NJ 08902, Ph:732.296.8070, www.naswnj.org

E X E C U T I V E D I R E C TO R ’S M E SSAG E

2020 N ASW - N J A N N U A L AWA R D WINNERS

H I D D E N H I STO R I E S : U N C OV E R I N G T H E D I V E R S E R O OTS O F S O C I A L W O R K

SOCIAL WORK TELEMEDICINE R E G U L AT I O N S U P DAT E

C A L L F O R C A N D I DAT E S

N ASW - N J A N N U A L C O N F E R E N C E SNEAK PEAK

T H E L AT E ST F R O M T H E F I E L D

R AC E , R E C O N C I L I AT I O N , & RESPONSIBILITY SERIES

PA R T N E R S P OT L I G H T: I N ST I T U T E F O R P E R S O N A L G R OW T H

ST U D E N T C E N T E R

SPIRIT OF GIVING

O U R G I F T TO YO U : F R E E C E U S

SOCIAL WORK PIONEER: DR. R E B E C C A DAV I S

P R O F E SS I O N A L D E V E LO PM E N T

CONTENTS

P R E S I D E N T ’S M E SSAG E

TABLE OF

on the cover Spirit of Giving Theme

PRESIDENT' S M E S SAG E C a l l t o S o c i a l Wo r k e r s : Exercise your right to vote!

VOTES REPRESENT THOUGHTS, IDEAS, AND VALUES

As I write this, we are only days away from the close of voting in the 2020 General Election—a monumental election that will impact each one of us and the communities we serve. It is our right and duty to vote, not only as citizens, but as social workers. Renowned Civil Rights activist and former Congressman, Rep. John Lewis, once said, “The vote is the most powerful nonviolent tool we have.” It is our way to state our preferences loud and clear and contribute to the decision making in our country. Though voting in this year’s election may look different due to the current pandemic, as advocates for ourselves and our communities, it is imperative that each registered voter exercise their right to vote and that it be counted! It is no secret that throughout history people have been denied their right to vote. Whether the denial was based on race, ethnicity, gender, disability, age, or criminal conviction, it has been a right that many people have fought and died for—a right, that for many, is not taken lightly or for granted. Voting is at the heart of social work and connects to our core principle of social justice. Our profession calls for all people to have the ability to meaningful participate in decision making about their lives. We know the power of the vote can showcase the collective power of communities and allow the voices of silenced communities to finally be heard. Voting is social work and each person’s vote is important. If every person who is eligible to vote actually voted, it would have an overwhelming impact on the election. On average, more people vote when there is a presidential election. However, according to the Washington Post, over 100 million people—more than 40% of eligible voters—chose not to vote in 2016. Many of those people may have felt their single vote did not matter. I am here to say that each one of those 100 million votes did in fact matter. Each one of those votes represented thoughts, ideas, and values that should have been considered by the leadership of this country as decisions were being made. Voting gives us the power to enforce real change and action on the issues we care about for ourselves and for the communities in which we live and serve. The more we engage in the electoral process, the more we can advocate and demand change happen in our local, state, and federal government. Yes, you may be one vote. But your one vote—your voice— matters. And it can make a difference. For those who may be on the fence about voting in this election, we need you! As we prepare to cast our votes this year, knowledge about the election process is key. To this end, NASW-NJ launched a campaign in September—"the Road to November”—featuring a series of webinars and resources that provide crucial information on the election process. On our website, you will find easy to view on-demand recordings, resources, and fact sheets to help you feel more comfortable with the process. I’d like to end with a call to every social worker to join me in exercising our right to vote! Moreover, I ask you to encourage others around you to do the same. Voting is a right I take very seriously, and I hope you do, as well. Whether it be through mail-in ballot or in person, let’s rock the vote together and cast our votes in numbers never seen before! Remember, as a community, and as social workers, we are always strongest together! Sincerely, Nkechi

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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S M E S SAG E S o c i a l Wo r k e r s S t a n d S t r o n g , H o l d Va l u e s i n t h e Fa c e o f A d v e r s i t y

Friends and Colleagues,

WE WILL BE HERE TO MAP OUT THE FUTURE TOGETHER, ORGANIZE AND CONTINUE TO LEAD

WHEREVER THIS ELECTION LEADS US,

Today, the day after Election Day 2020, we face a lot of uncertainty. Many of you are anxious and worried, scared, and frustrated. Many are angry and outraged. This election, and moreover, the last four years, have left many in our communities—and certainly in our profession—tired. Emotionally, spiritually, and physically exhausted. There is space for all these feelings, and we know, as social workers—they are valued. We hold space for them today, and all days. But I wanted to share with you—among all of the uncertainty, exhaustion, anger, pain and fear—that I also feel such overwhelming hope and gratitude for you, our community of social workers and our profession. Our profession is rooted in values of service, social justice, the dignity and worth of all individuals, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence. Over the last four years, New Jersey social workers lived those values and led across the nation. When the Trump administration sought to dismantle pieces of the Affordable Care Act—specifically, seeking to limit access to birth control—NASW-NJ joined other chapters in the fight in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, successfully stopping the administration’s effort. When the administration imparted new regulations that eviscerated the 1996 Flores settlement, NASW-NJ joined in the amicus work with the National Immigration Law Center to protect the rights of migrant children. Through the courts, we fought for the dignity and worth of all people. When New Jersey social workers learned of the inhumane conditions refugees were being held in at the border, you rose to the occasion. We led two trips to the border, working in refugee centers, detention centers— being of service to others. You brought that first-hand knowledge back, shared it with legislators and continued to fight. You demonstrated, through your engagement, that sound policy should only be crafted with the voices and input of those who will be most impacted. When the dual crises of COVID-19 and the escalation of murders of Black men and women emerged this

year, social workers in New Jersey did not retreat. Far from it. You continued to show up for your clients and communities, day after day—helping them navigate the challenges they face, while also managing your own. That has been no easy task. As we prepared for this election, thousands of social workers joined us in our Road to November series. You took time out of work to learn how you could organize your communities, your agencies, and your clients. You volunteered to make calls, and drive people to the polls. You voted. I am inspired that many of the candidates endorsed by NASW PACE in New Jersey were elected. I am inspired that across the river, two monumental wins were made by NASW PACE endorsed candidates in Delaware. Sarah McBride was elected and will be our nation’s first transgender State Senator. Marie Pinkney, a social worker, also won a seat in the DE State Senate. All of these candidates embody our values and collectively, we can continue to advance policies and programs that support equality for all individuals. It’s likely we won’t know the outcome of this election for a while. However, whatever happens, I know you will continue to do the work. You will continue to be the voice for your clients and communities. You will continue to inspire and push us. I know that social workers in New Jersey will rise—as you have done over the last four years—and live our values. I want you to know that NASW-NJ will continue to be your professional home and your community. We will continue to be your space to find respite and inspiration and to organize. Wherever this election leads us, we will be here to map out the future together, organize and continue to lead— just as you do daily. Just as we have together over the last four years. That’s who we are, at our core. In solidarity, Jennifer

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SOCIAL WORKER OF THE YEAR

MARLINE FRANCOIS-MADDEN

It is with great honor that I humbly accept this award as NASW-NJ’s 2020 Social Worker of the Year. As a devoted social worker and member of NASW, I truly believe in the core values and mission of this organization. I began my career in social services after receiving my bachelor’s in psychology from Penn State University and decided to pursue my Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University. After completing my degree and obtaining licensure, my career began as a psychiatric social worker. The early days of my career shaped how I view this profession and understand the meaning of service and social justice. In addition, owning a group therapy practice centered on the well-being of women and teen girls has helped to instill in me a strong passion for ensuring access to and equity in services for minority youth. This was the motivating factor for pursuing my doctoral degree at Montclair State University. Now, after a decade in the profession, I have the opportunity to mentor and coach aspiring mental health professionals.

FOR THOSE NEW TO THE FIELD OF SOCIAL WORK, I WOULD LIKE TO SHARE SOME VALUABLE ADVICE: 1. Find a mentor. It is crucial to have a mentor that can advise you on your journey to becoming a better social worker and leader. 2. Always be willing to learn. Social work is a diverse profession, so attend professional development or CEU courses in your area of interest.

3. Be willing to go outside your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to take a risk in this profession. So often, I have seen social workers allow imposter syndrome to hinder them from going after opportunities. Use your creativity and talents to maximize opportunities in this field. 4. Network with your colleagues. Start by joining NASW, but don’t stop there. Get involved in the association by networking with colleagues at programs and events, take on volunteer leadership roles, sharpen your skills by writing for FOCUS, and more. Find colleagues who are interested in similar career goals and industries as you to hold one another accountable and build a growing support system. My career in social work has taken me to places I would never have imagined when I set out—speaker, author, business owner, doctoral student… so don’t limit yourself. Let your career take you where it will. Do the good work. Care for those around you. Strive to make the world a better place. Let social work bring out the best in you—the rest will fall into place.

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Hidden Histories: UNCOVERING THE DIVERSE ROOTS OF SOCIAL WORK

Thyra J. Edwards (1897-1953)

ecent discourse among the social work profession has focused on the “white washing” of social work history and education. Social work courses that discuss the history of social work often focus on the formative writings and work of individuals such as Jane Addams, Mary Richmond, Frances Perkins and other white social work luminaries. The website www. bestmswprograms.com features a list of “50 Notable Social Workers in U.S. History,” 42 of whom are white.1 The Wikipedia page for “social work” mentions only two American social workers by name: Jane Addams and Mary Richmond.2 A 2014 blog posted on the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work website cites the “9 Most Influential Women in the History of Social Work,” all of whom are white.3 And a 2018 blog available on the Rutgers University School of Social Work website offers a list of “Influential Women in the History of Social Work.”4 Of the 10 women listed, all but one, Dorothy Height, are white.

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Over the next years’ worth of FOCUS issues, we’ll be digging deeper into the historical archives (thank you internet!), beyond the usually cited names, to bring to light the stories of lesser known individuals, primarily persons of color, who have helped move the profession of social work forward, as well as society as a whole. This series of articles does not intend to deny the contributions of commonly cited, white individuals to the profession of social work, but rather is intended to raise awareness and create discussion about how we think of social work history and the development of the profession in the U.S.

the social work profession in the United States believed that black social workers should only focus on blacks in America,” the article continues, “Edwards worked with people of all races, nationalities, and ethnicities.”11

Hidden T Histories:

his month, we turn the spotlight on Thyra Edwards, the granddaughter of runaway slaves, who went on to become a school teacher, social worker, world lecturer, journalist, labor organizer, women’s rights advocate, and civil rights activist all before her 40th birthday.5 She was often heralded as “one of the most outstanding Black women in the world.”6 In 1938, a black newspaper in Houston paid front-page tribute to her as the embodiment of "The Spirit of Aframerican Womanhood."7

UNCOVERING THE DIVERSE Thyra J. Edwards (1897-1953) was born in Houston, Texas and graduated from Houston Colored High School in 1915. According to a biography published on the National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW) website, following her graduation from High School, Edwards took courses in family casework, child welfare, and labor problems at the Chicago School of Civics and Philanthropy; courses in psychiatric social work, psychoanalysis, the social sciences, literature, and forensic science at Indiana University, Kent College of Law, and the University of Chicago; and eventually went on to study labor relations and economic history at Brookwood Labor College, a trade union school sponsored by the American Federation of Labor (AFL) in Brookwood, NY.8 The NABSW profile also highlights Edwards’ belief that social work “should also encompass political economy, social history, women's issues, race relations, labor issues, and world affairs” rather than limiting the field to a narrow focus, such as psychoanalysis or sociology.9 Blackthen.com further notes in Edwards’ point of view, the profession of social work should “advocate for disadvantaged and at-risk populations; focus on issues and problems specifically affecting the well-being of women; and demonstrate the ability to work with diverse populations.”10 “The link between the plight of blacks throughout the world was a cornerstone of [Edwards’] professional philosophy,” according to Blackpast.org. “At a time when

In the 1930s and 1940s, Edwards wrote about international affairs for Black newspapers, presenting an anti-imperialist critique of world affairs to her readers. In 1933, she joined the Chicago Scottsboro Action Committee to raise funds for legal appeals and new trials for the nine Black youth in Alabama who had been falsely convicted of raping two white women on a freight train two years earlier. 12

Edwards combined her social work and interest in international affairs, gaining “worldwide notoriety” for her activism.13 She was part of the larger struggle against fascism, colonialism, and imperialism from the 1930s through her death in 1953. Workers.org notes she attended the Women Against War and Fascism convention and in the 1930s Spanish Civil War R O OLoyalist TS O F who S Odefended CIAL W to Otry RK supported forces, Madrid to keep it from falling into the hands of Gen. Francisco Franco’s fascist troops. She also organized the first Jewish childcare program in Rome to assist children who had been victims of the Holocaust.14 Edwards’ involvement with the Loyalists in the Spanish Civil War and her activities with the U.S. communist party led to an FBI investigation. Government intelligence organizations harassed her until her death in 1953.15 https://www.bestmswprograms.com/great-american-social-workers/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_work 3 https://msw.usc.edu/mswusc-blog/9-most-influential-women-inthe-history-of-social-work/ 4 https://socialwork.rutgers.edu/news-events/news/influentialwomen-history-social-work 5 https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/edwardsthyra-j-1887-1953/ 6 https://blackthen.com/thyra-j-edwards-noted-one-outstandingblack-women-world/ 7 https://bookshop.org/books/thyra-j-edwards-black-activist-in-theglobal-freedom-struggle/9780826219121 8 https://www.nabsw.org/page/SocialWork 9 ibid 10 https://blackthen.com/thyra-j-edwards-noted-one-outstandingblack-women-world/ 11 https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/edwardsthyra-j-1887-1953/ 12 https://www.workers.org/2012/us/thyra_edwards_0329/ 13 https://blackthen.com/thyra-j-edwards-noted-one-outstandingblack-women-world/ 14 https://www.workers.org/2012/us/thyra_edwards_0329/ 15 ibid 1 2

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On October 19, 2020, the New Jersey Board of Social Work Examiners (BSWE) published new regulations governing the practice of social work via telemedicine/telehealth (N.J.A.C. 13:44G-15). These regulations, originally proposed in 2019, took effect the day of publication, October 19, 2020. The following are major points of consideration required by the new regulations that social workers seeking to conduct their practice via telemedicine/telehealth must address.1

U PDATE S

Major Points of Consideration for New Telehealth Regulations • A new subchapter, 13:44G-15: Telemedicine and Telehealth, went into effect on October 19th. This subchapter was established to implement regulations for the practice of telemedicine/telehealth by licensed or certified social workers, as required by NJ’s Telemedicine Law. Social workers and agencies employing social workers must amend their policies to be in compliance as soon as possible. • A social worker MUST be licensed in NJ if they 1) provide services via telehealth while located in NJ, regardless of where their clients are located and/or 2) provide services via telehealth to clients located in NJ. • Before providing telehealth services, social workers must establish a licensee-client relationship as outlined in 15.4 Licensee-Client Relationship. • Each time a social worker provides services via telehealth, they must establish where the client is physically located at the time of service and document this in the client’s record. • To prevent fraud and abuse, social workers must establish written policies that address their telehealth protocols as outlined in 15.7 Prevention of Fraud and Abuse. • Social workers must establish written privacy practices that are consistent with HIPAA laws and have all clients provide written acknowledgement that they received notice of these practices. More information can be found in 15.8 Privacy and Notice to Clients.

Read NASW-NJ’s Telemedicine Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Read NASW-NJ’s line-by-line analysis of the new Telemedicine regulations, 13:44G-15 If you have questions about these new regulations, you can schedule a licensing consultation with our office HERE. Remember, licensing consultation are a free benefit of membership in NASW-NJ. This information is a summary based on the latest revision to the NJ Social Work Regulations (N.J.A.C. 13:44G) that went into effect on Monday, October 19, 2020. These Regulations are published by the Board of Social Work Examiners (BSWE) and can be accessed at http://tinyurl.com/NJSWRegs1310 | NJFOCUS • information, November 2020 44G. For more please review the NJ Social Work Regulations, SUBCHAPTER 15: Telemedicine and Telehealth (p. 52-59). 1

Holding an elected position in NASW-NJ is meaningful. It provides the opportunity to use your voice, share the experiences of your colleagues and friends, and help set the vision for our Chapter. It is also a fantastic way to build your leadership skills, learn new things and develop as a well-rounded professional. Our Chapter Committee on Nominations and Leadership Identification (CCNLI) is charged with vetting possible candidates for elected office with NASW-NJ. This year we are seeking to fill the following roles: • First Vice President • Northwest Regional Rep. • Northeast Regional Rep. • MSW Student Rep. • BSW Student Rep. • CCNLI • Delegate Assembly

Our First Vice President and Regional Representative roles are appointed to serve for two years and student representatives serve for one year. Members of CCNLI serve for two years and are required to sit out of running for additional roles for a year beyond their service. Our Delegate Assembly representatives serve for three years, reviewing information as called upon and participating in the Delegate Assembly itself. Applications are now being accepted. Voting will occur in March-May 2021. Term begins July 1, 2021 (end date varies based on term). For more information on all these positions and to apply, visit our website.

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2021 NASW-NJ VIRTUAL ANNUAL CONFERENCE

March 7-8, 2021

S AV E T H E D A T E ! EARN UP TO 20 CEUS! Our Annual Conference arrives early this year to coincide with Social Work Month! We’ll be bringing you the Conference virtually to ensure the utmost in safety along with the same high-quality speakers and workshops and the opportunity to earn 20 CEUs. The 2021 Annual Conference will create a space for social workers to address the dichotomy that exists in our profession as we simultaneously practice within racist systems and work to dismantle them. Featuring national experts on racial and social inequities—including Dr. Larry E. Davis, Dr. Darlyne Bailey, and Dr. Alan Lipscombe—the 2021 NASW-NJ Virtual Annual Conference presents an opportunity to examine our profession’s relationship to white privilege and racial justice in order to reimagine an anti-racist future. More information at: naswnj.org/events

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D R . L A R R Y E . D AV I S Larry E. Davis, MA, MSW, Ph.D. has spent his life and career dedicated to issues of race, civil rights, and social justice. He is the Founding Director of the Center on Race and Social Problems at the University of Pittsburg, which conducts applied social science research on race, ethnicity, and color, the first such center to be created in any American school of Social Work. Additionally, Dr. Davis served as Dean of the School of Social Work at the University until 2017 and holds the Donald M. Henderson Chair. Dr. Davis has long been recognized as a leading scholar of the narrative about race in America and its role in social justice. His academic life has been dedicated to the creation of solution-based dialogues that promote a more racially equitable society.

D R . D A R LY N E B A I L E Y Darlyne Bailey, MSW, Ph.D., is Professor and Dean Emeritus at the Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research at Bryn Mawr College. A first-generation college student, she was also among the first women to attend Lafayette College. Upon graduation she joined the Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences at Case Western where, three weeks after receiving tenure, she became their Dean and a fellow in the Kellogg Foundation National Leadership Program. In addition to recent journal publications on organizational leadership, she is completing work with colleagues across the country, partnering with the national Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) to produce the first-ever guide on what and how to teach the development and sustainability of socially-just, effective organizations, communities, and policies.

DR. ALLEN LIPSCOMB Allen Lipscomb, PsyD, LCSW is Associate Professor of Social Work at the California State University Northridge. He received his doctorate in Psychology (Psy.D.) with a clinical emphasis in marriage, family and child psychotherapy from Ryokan College and his MSW from the University of Southern California. Upon completing his doctorate, he earned a certification in mixed-methods community based research from the University of Michigan in the School of Social Work. Dr. Lipscomb specializes in providing anti-oppressive and inclusive mental health services to individuals, children, youth and families of color. His areas of research are centered on the psychiatric epidemiology among racialized and marginalized individuals who have experienced trauma (i.e. complex trauma, traumatic-grief and race-based trauma). Specifically, Dr. Lipscomb has conducted numerous qualitative research studies on racialized Black identified men across the Black/African Diaspora exploring their grief, loss and complex-trauma experiences.

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Aging

FADING FAMILY:

The Impact of COVID-19 on Individuals with Dementia by Catherine Nakonetschny, MSW, CDP, LCSW

" As social work professionals, we need to advocate for the psycho-social well-being of our residents."

arch 13, 2020, the day I celebrated my 45th birthday, was also the day most of our personal and professional lives were turned upside down by the COVID-19 shutdown. This was the day the community in which I work closed its doors to all outside visitors, including family, friends, and private duty care. It was the day that started a chain reaction of events that has altered the lives of individuals living with dementia. Those of us who work with individuals living with dementia understand social interactions, engagement, and family support help to decrease feelings of depression, anxiety, and behavioral expressions, such as wandering, aggressive behaviors and agitation. With the restrictions implemented to keep those living in long-term care communities safe, many of us in the field began to worry about the progressive decline this could cause in our residents. It has been reported that thousands of Americans living with dementia have died since the

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COVID-19 outbreak. Doctors are reporting increased falls, infections, depression, and sudden decline in patients. Residents in long-term care communities are at increased risk for isolation and loneliness; however, restrictions placed on residents during the current pandemic have exacerbated their vulnerability. Many of us working in longterm care have done our best to try to enhance the psychosocial well-being of our residents using technology such as FaceTime, Skype, and increased one-to-one interactions in their rooms. However, the longer these restrictions are in place, the more apparent the decline becomes. In my own professional life, I have seen residents living with dementia begin to wander, searching for the daughters and sons who are not permitted to visit. I have seen residents with depression and anxiety, once stable on non-pharmacological interventions, require doses of medications because their social supports and usual routines have been so disrupted. I have witnessed residents living with dementia become increasingly angry because they are unable to process why their families are

not permitted to visit. And I have watched as tears were shed because a loved one was unable to provide the physical comfort of a hug during an outside visit.

We also need to write. Social workers in the field of geriatrics must share our experiences and the experiences of our residents living with dementia. We need to make those with decision-making power aware of the effects this pandemic and resulting policies are having on these individuals. We may not be able to truly reverse that course during this current outbreak; however, we need to learn from our mistakes to best prepare our clients for the next outbreak or global health crisis.

Aging

It’s fair to ask: in an effort to protect the most vulnerable populations against the horrors of COVID-19, have we doomed them to a life of increased confusion, isolation, loneliness, and decreased quality of life? In my experience, yes, we have. Although the staff in long-term care communities are doing their very best to keep residents with dementia, engaged and involved in activities of interest, they are still isolated from the friends and family who mean so much to them and are critical to well-being. One family member recently told me, “I would rather be able to visit with my Mom, while she still recognizes me. I would rather be able to hug her and hold her hand now, than watch her slowly drift away from me at a distance of 6 feet.”

appropriate personal protective equipment so that physical contact can occur.

About the Author: So, where do we go from here? Can we reverse the current course? As social work professionals, we need to advocate for the psycho-social wellbeing of our residents. We need to advocate for special considerations and concessions to be made for those individuals living with dementia. We must empower families and primary caregivers to advocate for changes in current policy. Social workers need to try to connect residents and their loved ones with minimal barriers and provide

Catherine Nakonetschny, MSW, LCSW holds an M.A. in Counseling Psychology f rom Rosemont College and an M.S.W. f rom Temple University. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working in a Continuing Care Retirement Community in South Jersey. She has been a Geriatric Social Worker for 21 years and was awarded an Honorary Doctoral Degree from Rosemont College for her work in Elder Care.

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Anti-Poverty

WHEN FOOD PANTRIES ARE NOT ENOUGH by Charise Breeden-Balaam, MSW, Ed.D.

"When students can’t eat, their studies suffer; when student performance lags, a school’s effectiveness is blunted and its promise diminished."

ommunity colleges make postsecondary education and professional training available to anyone who seeks them. Students of all ages and from all walks of life seize the opportunities made possible by two-year colleges. Many of them add college to schedules already filled with the demands of work and parenting. For any college student, but especially for those with jobs and families, college can represent an opportunity to add valuable new skills and compete for more secure, better-paying jobs. The trick for many students is seeing college through while managing the challenges of a lower income and attendant issues like food insecurity. In research conducted toward my dissertation, I learned more than half of the respondents (n=69) to a survey of community college students had

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faced some significant form of food insecurity in the past year. Some knew what it was like to run out of food without being able to afford more; roughly half had experienced hunger, and more than 20% had gone an entire day without eating at some point in the previous 12 months.

Food insecurity remains a problem for a significant percentage of community college students despite a somewhat patchy network of public benefits in the form of SNAP vouchers and other support. However, barely 25% of the students I surveyed used SNAP benefits, and fewer used WIC. For students who cannot avail themselves of those resources—or who face food insecurity despite them—local food banks and pantries are often seen as a backup option. But only 11.4% of respondents to my survey had used an off-campus food pantry in the past six months. One explanation for this discrepancy between levels of food insecurity and use of off-campus pantries revealed itself in a series of interviews I conducted as part of my research. In the words of one participant:

don't want to spend more money on gas when I know that I have to feed the kid. Other participants raised similar issues: community colleges might be located as conveniently as possible, but when time and money are already short, commuting to campus leaves even less time for other activities. Many students in such situations opt to skip meals altogether; the participant quoted above stated matter-of-factly “That last semester, I didn’t eat.”

Anti-Poverty

When students can’t eat, their studies suffer; when student performance lags, a school’s effectiveness is blunted and its promise diminished.

Food insecurity has no easy solution, but community colleges can go a long way toward helping their students manage the issue by incorporating full-fledged food banks on their campuses. Institutions can also begin to introduce referrals to local food resources in their orientation materials and as part of course syllabi. While food pantries alone cannot alleviate all of the insecurities students face, their increased presence on campuses serves as a practical solution for supporting students' basic needs.

About the Author:

I've been walking to school every day, just so that I'm not wasting gas. I don't know how far I've walked to pick up my daughter, but I don't drive anywhere. I don't really go anywhere because I

Dr. Charise is an emerging leader dedicated to eliminating Food Insecurity in higher education. She is committed to supporting students holistically to ensure they reach their educational goals and believing that everything must be done on Purpose with Purpose.

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Criminal Justice

MITIGATION DURING COVID-19: We Are Experiencing Technical Difficulties by Lisa Orloff, LMSW, ACSW " Phone and video calls with clients were snared by technical difficulties—asking a client invasive questions regarding childhood trauma while your video screen keeps freezing is unimaginable. "

have worked as a Mitigation Specialist for 28 years, now working on federal criminal cases. COVID-19 has forced me to approach my job and assess my professional abilities in unique and different ways. For those unfamiliar with the job, the Mitigation Specialist ’s role is to tell our clients’ stories—to give them a voice. Prosecutors tend to view our clients as criminals,

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instead of as people charged with a crime. Mitigation Specialists strive to present our clients as resilient, brothers and sons 1—as whole people. Mitigation consultant reports contend—due to mitigating circumstances—our clients should serve a sentence sufficient for their offense, but not greater than necessary. We seek to provide context to, but not an excuse for, the path of a

client’s poor choices leading to the criminal offense. Ironically, as I was writing this article for FOCUS, something transpired with a client that made me rethink and rewrite the entire article. More importantly, it made me realize I needed to change how I was assessing my abilities at this time.

The Judge, Lyn, Steve, and the prosecution were convened on the equivalent of a Zoom call. They were able to see and hear each other. Steve’s mother, Darlene, 2 and I called in so we could listen to the proceedings—but we were unable to see or acknowledge Steve. When we joined the call, we could hear clerks in the courtroom laughing and corrections officers in the jail shouting in the background. This noise was distracting and detracted from the focus on Steve while he was pleading guilty to charges that would change his life forever. The combination of distance and distraction tore at his mother’s heart, while making me feel powerless. I imagined 6’3” Steve shrinking in his chair while the background cacophony diminished his sense of importance. When prosecutors and the judge do not see me physically present in court, it minimizes my role and their perception of my value. When a client does not see me in court or perceives me as unavailable in their time of need, it can damage our rapport. COVID-19 has robbed me of some of my most basic

resources. When jails closed due to COVID-19, communication ties with clients were severed. Phone and video calls with clients were snared by technical difficulties—asking a client invasive questions regarding childhood trauma while your video screen keeps freezing is unimaginable. My inability to view the body language of interviewees over the phone impedes my assessment. Due to my hearing impairment and my inability to read lips over the phone, I need to ask personal questions repeatedly which a person may only want to answer once. While Mitigation Specialists strive to tell our client’s story and give them a voice, in many ways we have been muted by COVID-19. The good news is, I am not alone. Throughout the pandemic there have been wonderful online trainings and voluminous articles written by and for Mitigation Specialists to help us during these catastrophic times—times which have attacked our ability to meet our clients’ needs. As I continue to learn from my clients and our experiences together during COVID-19, I realize I need to rethink my definition of success. The night after his plea, Steve emailed me, acknowledging our efforts. He wrote: “…thank you for being there for me and my family and doing much as you can to help us in a time of need. Wish i was able to see you and my mom so things could of [sic] been a little more at ease for me. But thank you just for tuning in to make sure everything went well with me.”

The pandemic’s annihilation of normalcy—replete with virtual calls, social distancing, and technology snafus—clarifies that I am simply unable to provide the same level of service to my clients as I am accustomed to. In order to maintain a positive sense of achievement and adequately assess my work, I need to adjust my expectations and self-critique to keep myself sane during these insane times. As Steve wisely recommends: simply tuning in to my clients and “doing as much as [I] can in a time of need” may be the best I can do right now.

Criminal Justice

My client, Steve 2, a 24-year old with special needs, was pleading guilty to charges with an extreme sentencing guideline. Instead of having his lawyer, Lyn 2, at his side—the pre-pandemic practice—to answer questions and whisper to Steve to assuage his irrefutable anxiety, Steve and Lyn were miles apart. Steve was subject to a virtual plea hearing, a practice that came into existence due to COVID-19.

My clients are predominantly men. Names changed to protect privacy. 1 2

About the Author: After receiving her MSW f rom the Florida State University, Lisa Orloff ’s f irst job out of graduate school was in the social work department at Legal Aid Society’s Criminal Practice in New York City. Her commitment to the unjust criminal justice system has not faltered for nearly 30 years.

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Health Care

COVID-19 AND THE IMPACT ON PALLIATIVE CARE By Gabrielle Winther, LCSW

" Typically, after someone experiences a traumatic event, there is an end to the event and space where healing can begin. We have not had that space with COVID."

alliative care is a specialized medical care focused on symptom management for people with chronic illnesses, such as cancer, cardiac disease, pulmonary disease, and dementia. Along with addressing symptom management, palliative care social workers discuss with patients and their family members what the goals of care are to enable patients to live the highest quality of life. As a palliative care social worker, I provide supportive counseling to patients as they adjust to different stages of an illness and their goals change. I support the doctors during conversations about advanced care planning. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an increased demand for consults from our palliative care team, as our organization recognized the skill level the palliative care team had when addressing sensitive issues, such as end of life. We closely worked alongside doctors, nurses, aides, and other clinical staff. At the onset of the pandemic, visitors were not allowed in the hospital, and we were required to have goals of care conversations over the phone. This is something our palliative care team was not accustomed to and we had to quickly adapt. By moving to phone consultations, we lost the ability to read body language during the conversation. We could not hear side conversations that were happening, and

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we could not physically console the families we were speaking with. We walked on the journey with many families as they decided on the next steps-continue with aggressive treatment or focus on comfort. We carried the familiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; emotional weight during this time and became a lifeline to family members. Most days when we called, we could provide small updates, and we listened to stories about the patients that were filled with laughter, sobs, and moments of deafening silence. As social workers, we all know the importance of human interaction, but most of us have never been in a situation of enforced solitude prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients were dropped off at the hospital, their families not realizing this might be the last time they saw their loved one. Our hospital recognized the emotional strain placed on families who were not able to see or speak with their loved ones. In response, we created a family support team. Members of this team would visit patient rooms and provide video calls to their family members. Families would call the support team to schedule a time for a video call. While this allowed the families to see and speak with their loved ones, most patients could not respond as they were intubated. If the patient had been successfully extubated, the video calls could continue until the patient was able to use

Our entire organization felt the emotional toll of COVID-19, it was not limited to one department. In some way we were all touched by the patients and families. Our experiences impacted how we coped and are continuing to cope through this difficult experience. Living and working through a pandemic is not something any of us expected in our lifetime and we are continuing to adjust to the uncertainty of what will happen in the coming months.

the pandemic has had on staff. Typically, after someone experiences a traumatic event, there is an end to the event and space where healing can begin. We have not had that space with COVID. We are still living with it and working through it. With the support of leadership, I have been able to visit various inpatient departments and outpatient practices to offer debriefing sessions for staff. The debriefing sessions are a safe place where we can hold space for staff to talk about their experiences. We also discuss the importance and benefits of self-care.

Health Care

their own phone. Eventually as restrictions lifted, families were—and still are—able to visit in person, with some limitations.

COVID-19 has placed huge demands on palliative care. We face not only the needs of our patients, but our own fears and needs regarding the pandemic. After several months of this pandemic, the palliative care team at my hospital is not only able to support patients and families through the worst of the pandemic, but we are now able to support our co-workers, as well. Providing this type of support to staff will lead to better patient care and mitigate staff burnout as we continue to deal with the ongoing pandemic.

About the Author: Gabrielle Winther, LCSW is a social worker at Hunterdon Medical Center. She received her Master’s in Social Work from Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey. She has been practicing social work for 10 years, having worked in oncology, hospice, and currently palliative care. I am fortunate to work for an organization that values their employees and recognizes the toll

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School Social Work

The Impact of Pandemic on Students and Families in NYC by Michele L. Shropshire, DSW, LCSW, M.S.Ed. "One of the most challenging aspects for me was being concerned about students who were in precarious family situations at home and not being able to visit them in person. "

here is a saying or proverb that goes, “May you live in interesting times” which reverberates now more than ever. Working as a social worker in New York City Public Schools—the nation’s largest school system—for the past 8-9 months, it has certainly been an interesting time in life and in work. When the pandemic shut down NYC schools in March, I was working in a school in the Bronx, 6-12, where we quickly had to learn to do everything remotely, from teaching, to counseling, to IEP meetings. Our saving grace at the time was that the school had a bit of a head start—the staff was already engaging students academically through technology before the pandemic. As such, students and staff had some familiarity with remote technology to work through this mode of communication.

forces of their life dictated how much eagerness they would have to continue their studies remotely without the usual physical support and engagement of their friends and staff.

The irony of the situation is that last year my capstone project for my doctorate degree was on the use of telemental health services with homebound adolescents. One of the most difficult areas was determining how to maintain connection through technology in counseling and academics for a long period of time. And in my experience, from March to June, it was challenging to keep students engaged in their academics and maintaining their counseling appointments. The external

My tasks were the same as before the pandemic—to keep students focused on their education by giving them emotional support and making sure communication lines were open between the school and the families of students. Information about mental health treatment, food banks, and other resources available in neighborhoods was disseminated to students and families through emails, many phone calls, and through my Google classroom.

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There were substantial challenges. Some students were dealing with the death or illness of loved ones from COVID-19. Some older students were forced to take jobs as essential workers, working in supermarkets and pizza shops, to help their families meet financial needs, as well as to help their communities get through the pandemic. Moreover, the danger of apathy towards their education was seeping its way into our students. The world they knew had disappeared, and their energy was becoming scattered.

counseling sessions, and stayed on top of Children’s Protective Services to make sure they were still handling students’ cases, it did not feel like it was enough. But I knew it had to suffice. The work did not stop in June when the school year ended. Throughout the summer months, I would check up on students and their families or they would call to give me an update which I very much appreciated. This school year, I am still working remotely in the NYC Department of Education; not for a school, but on a committee that helps develop Individual Educational Plans for students with special needs who are attending private and charter schools. Yes, the challenges are still there, working remotely with families during educational procedures and redirecting students who seem to be losing their way, but I am still determined to do the good work during this tough time.

School Social Work

In most cases, I was the primary mental health provider for the student and their parents early in the pandemic, because their therapist could not support sessions online—either because they did not have a HIPAA compliant platform or health insurance would not cover teletherapy. Every morning, I would go into Google classroom data to ensure students had logged in for their daily attendance. For absent students, I would call every phone number associated with their household. When I reached a parent to inquire about their child’s absence, I could be on the phone for over 30 minutes providing emotional support to the parents, as well as their child.

About the Author: Michele Shropshire, DSW, LCSW, M.S.Ed. works for the NYC Department of Education and is an adjunct Professor at the Fordham University Graduate School of Social Work. She is also co-chair of the NASW-NJ Mercer/Burlington Unit. One of the most challenging aspects for me was being concerned about students who were in precarious family situations at home and not being able to visit them in person. Even though I frequently reached out to students and families through phone calls and Google Meetup

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NOT FORGOT TEN H E R O E S :

Veterans

Social Workers Must Fight for Justice at State-Run Veterans Homes by Kimberly Peck, LSW

Kimberly Peck with her father, Vernon, in 2019

"I dedicate my life to helping clients realize their selfworth by teaching them to advocate for themselves. Unfortunately, many residents in NJ state-run VA homes are unable to do that because they became sick and died when those in positions of authority and care needlessly endangered them. "

y name is Kimberly Peck and I have been a Licensed Social Worker (LSW ) for the last three years. I worked with victims of domestic and sexual violence. However, the veteran population is special to me because my father, Vernon Peck, was a veteran. Vernon was a resident of the Menlo Park Veterans Memorial Home since 2011, and he has survived some excruciating circumstances: the Vietnam War, a massive stroke that left him paralyzed and aphasic, and Non- Hodgkin's lymphoma. My father was strong in mind and spirit, but he succumbed to COVID-19 on Easter morning. My mom and I understood the elderly population was susceptible to COVID-19, and we knew the virus would make its way into the nursing facility. When the facility decided to shut its doors to the public on March 12, all we could do was pray for the best. Unfortunately, my father and the other approximately 300 veterans at the Menlo Park facility received inadequate care from the administration responsible for their health and safety. Various news reports have uncovered significant details of how the outbreak was mishandled

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at the Menlo Park facility. On March 31, the administration learned there were two COVID-19 positive residents in the hospital, and that one of them passed away the same day. Additionally, the administration was aware of two other presumptive positive cases on March 31. April 3, the CEO sent a letter to families assuring them the facility would be prepared for COVID-19 when it inevitably entered the facility. However, staff were instructed by the CEO to not wear personal protective equipment (PPE) because it would frighten residents. On April 7, the CEO informed families that COVID-19 was inside the facility. However, the facility did not begin testing residents until April 28, and by that time conditions were catastrophic. Families scrambled to learn any information about their loved ones, but the facility was insufficiently staffed: phones went unanswered, residents’ basic needs were not met, and the virus quickly decimated the residential population as staff began to quarantine all residents that exhibited any form of illness without testing them first. The New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs claims there were only 62 COVID-19 related deaths at Menlo Park, but this

Following compelling testimony from a resident at a joint session of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee, the Chair of the Committee, NJ State Senator Vitale, called for the resignation

and Menlo Park VA homes responsible for all COVID-19 deaths: it is already too late for my father, but no more veterans should die due to such gross negligence and reckless conduct. Please contact your state legislators and let them know that our veterans deserve better!

Update: In a leadership transition announced on October 16, Governor Murphy has terminated the employment of the Executive Directors of both the Menlo Park and Paramus Veterans Homes, as well as the Commissioner of Military and Veterans Affairs and the Director of the Division of Veterans Healthcare Services.

Veterans

statement is misleading. The census at the facility as of March 12th was 300 residents, and the census is now only approximately 167 residents. On October 1, there was finally confirmation from the State that the reported 62 deaths was not accurate; the Department of Health acknowledged there were 39 additional deaths at the facility that have been deemed to be probable COVID-19 deaths. Thus, the death toll now officially stands at 101, a third of the resident population. Quite simply: their math does not add up, and it is disrespectful to discount the military lives lost during this fight against COVID-19.

of the Menlo Park facility CEO. Yet, there has not been any legislative action taken to address or correct what transpired at the facility. As an LSW, I am guided by the NASW Code of Ethics. In particular, I value the inherent dignity of all people. I dedicate my life to helping clients realize their self-worth by teaching them to advocate for themselves. Unfortunately, many residents in NJ state-run VA homes are unable to do that because they became sick and died when those in positions of authority and care needlessly endangered them. My mission is to challenge this social injustice and make sure it does not ever happen again. I ask that you help advocates like me hold the administrators of the Paramus

About the Author: Kimberly Peck, LSW, is a social worker at My Place for Peace. She received her MSW from Rutgers University.

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Our Chapter's commitment to a more fair and just society for all.

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Race, Responsibility, & Reconciliation Series Social Work is a profession of social action. It is rooted in our education, our Code of Ethics and ingrained in who we are in our professional and private lives. We are called to fight for social justice, and we do so, daily. It is not enough for social workers to be “not racist.” Our call to action, and our call to others, must be to be ANTI-RACIST. We must aggressively fight against racism, and challenge others to rise to this standard. We must work to systematically dismantle white privilege and create a social system that works equally well for all residents of our nation. As part of our Chapter’s commitment anti-racism and racial equity, NASW-NJ launched our Race, Reconciliation & Responsibility series of webinars to address pressing issues of race in our community and to provide resources for social workers of color and white allies. If you missed the live webinars, you can access them on-demand from our website or check out our most recent offerings below.

VIEW THESE WEBINARS ON DEMAND THE SCHOOL TO PRISON PIPELINE Presented by JASMINE HARDEN

Youth Court, Newark Court Coordinator, Center for Court Innovation

MARY COOGAN

Esq. Vice President, Advocates for Children NJ

SUPPORT FOR PARENTS OF COLOR DURING A RACIAL PANDEMIC Presented by KECIA MELVIN LCSW

FORCED STERILIZATION OF WOMEN OF COLOR IN THE USA Presented by WIDIAN NICOLA DSW, LCSW

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PA R T N E R

SPOTLIGHT

he Institute for Personal Growth (IPG) is one of the leading mental healthcare providers in New Jersey. A group practice with over 25 therapists, 350 years of combined experience, and 37 years in practice, we have the experience, talent, and expertise to serve a vast range of mental health needs. With three offices throughout the state (Highland Park, Jersey City, and Freehold) we serve a variety of different communities. And as a practice comprised primarily of Licensed Clinical Social Workers, our partnership with NASW-NJ has expanded our reach and increased our contact with the Social Workers community. OUR HISTORY IPG was founded in 1983 by psychologist Dr. Margaret Nichols, Ph.D., as a specifically LGBTQ-oriented practice. The healthcare landscape was much less welcoming to Queer individuals back then; homosexuality had only been de-pathologized in the DSM ten years earlier, and still remained categorized as a “disturbance” until 1987. With the increasing trauma of the AIDS epidemic, Dr. Nichols knew it was more crucial than ever to provide quality, affirming psychotherapy to the LGBTQ community. From this experience we found special value in serving the underserved. In the 1990s much of our focus turned to transgender individuals, then barely visible in society. As that changed, we began seeing more and more gender non-conforming youth exploring their identities, but few therapists were equipped to meet their needs. Today we work hand-in-hand with other healthcare providers, from urologists and gynecologists to endocrinologists and surgeons, to provide a holistic treatment plan at every step of the journey. In 2019, IPG received a PROUD Award honoring our decades of work with the trans community. We’ve also worked extensively with other stigmatized sexual identities, such as the polyamory and kink/BDSM communities. Dr. Nichols, a leading expert on this topic, became an AASECT-certified sex therapist and began training others at IPG in sex therapy. We are now leaders in this field, treating countless individuals for issues related to sex and sexuality, including a group for men with compulsive sexual behavior. Dr. Nichols, now in retirement, has published a book, due out this month, summarizing

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her life’s work, entitled The Modern Clinician’s Guide to Working with LGBTQ+ Clients. IPG serves other underserved communities as well. In the mid2000s we began an intern program, training and supervising graduate students from Rutgers School of Social Work, not just to help shape the next generation of therapists, but also to provide quality care to financially disadvantaged clients almost free of charge. As the technology of EMDR became more prevalent to treat trauma/PTSD, we trained several of our therapists in this technique, allowing us to help victims of trauma—from veterans to firemen to survivors of abuse. And most recently we have started training our therapists to work with patients with eating disorders, a difficult-to-treat but sorely underserved group. Where there is a mental health need, IPG aims to meet it. OUR FUTURE In the mid-2010s Dr. Nichols began planning for retirement, and two longtime IPG figures took over the reins. Susan Menahem, LCSW, veteran IPG therapist, took over as Clinical Director in 2016 after training under Dr. Nichols; and Dr. Cory Nichols, Ph.D. – Dr. Margaret Nichols’ own son and former IPG employee – took over as Business Director in 2017. In 2018 Susan and Cory acquired the practice and have been running it together since. Thus began the partnership between IPG and NASW-NJ. Susan and Cory felt IPG should have a more active involvement in the Social Work community, especially with a staff composed primarily of LCSWs. We began by sponsoring the 2019 Conference, and from the positivity of that experience our relationship evolved into a full-blown, year-round partnership. During this time, perhaps the most valuable element of our relationship has been the sharing of experience and knowledge. For example, NASW-NJ has provided us with CEU-eligible in-service training sessions, helping us to stay on the cutting edge of the profession, and in return we have given presentations on various aspects of sex therapy, sharing our expertise and experience with the rest of the profession. We have more ideas for the future, and we can’t wait to see how the partnership evolves and unfolds. Stay tuned for more IPG and NASW-NJ collaborations in 2021!

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Student Center

AN AUTISTIC WOMAN’S ADDRESS: Support for Expanded Inclusion in Social Work Employment & Beyond by Danielle M. Ryer "My autism is a part of me and who I am as a person and a professional. "

n experiment: What do you think about when you hear the word ‘autism’ – and what words do you associate with it? Perhaps ‘service use,’ ‘evidence-based practice,’ ‘applied behavioral analysis,’ or an abundance of other clinical jargon. How about ‘empowered?’ or ‘highly researched and informed.’ How about ‘one who instills hope in people who are different’ and ‘deeply empathetic?’ Or how about… ‘autistic social worker?’

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My name is Danielle, and I am an MSW student. I am also autistic. As a side note, you may notice that I don’t use ‘person-first’ language in this article—for instance a ‘person with autism’—for myself. I choose to identify myself using identity-first language—'an autistic person.’ This is because I believe autism is an identity and a culture, not something that can be modified or separated from a person. Here’s a great resource on identity-first language if you’d like to learn more. In the interest of not stereotyping the

community, I will say that I am my own person. I’ve met other autistic people similar to me. I can also say with certainty that there are plenty of autistic people who are nothing like me. Each autistic person is unique. My autism is a part of me and who I am as a person and a professional. I see the world in vivid detail. I see beyond a person’s pain to reveal their complex, unique circumstances, their traumas, and what it would be like to be in their shoes. I’m meticulous about observing minor changes in other people’s moods because I listen

I would say that being unusual in this way makes me a good fit as a clinician for other unusual people. It can help them feel at home. I appreciate a client’s quirks, rather than seek to change them. As a curious, diverse individual myself, I appreciate diversity in thought. I am highly empathetic but do not express it in ways that are overwhelming or overbearing to people I am serving.

Despite these innate skills and traits, I would not be where I am today without inclusive education and other efforts to allow autistic individuals to integrate into the community, including in my collegiate studies. Inclusive education starts with two components: first, a belief in your students and a focus on their strengths, and second, not reducing a student to a label based on any

challenges they have, or ones you might believe they have. My teachers have helped my education by treating me as an individual, and not a set of symptoms.

Student Center

to everything a person says at once – the words they use, the pace they’re speaking—and recognize any sudden changes. It is because of these skills that I am pursuing a career in social work.

Inclusivity is not limited to education; we must also work towards an inclusive workforce. To support inclusion in the workforce, an employer might explore how an autistic person can use their unique strengths and abilities to be of maximum benefit to a company or agency. It is also important to recognize that over time, an autistic person’s needs may change, and their skill sets may grow. Talking to us about our likes, dreams, and goals can reveal ways we can uniquely benefit an organization. For instance, I have used various government services throughout my life, and as such have a lot of insight as to how they can be best used by the autistic and general communities. As an advocate for autistic people, I am both a lifelong teacher and a lifelong student. I strive to live my life to the best of my ability, and I seize the opportunity to challenge stereotypes and biases simply by being myself. The summation of my life experiences, simultaneously challenging and enlightening, have provided me with the insight to support others with challenges they face. I believe I have a place as a professional social worker, as do others like me. Workplace inclusivity will allow autistic professionals like myself to thrive in professional capacities, using our uniqueness to catapult us to success.

About the Author: Danielle Ryer is an MSW student at Rutgers University School of Social Work. She holds two undergraduate degrees, in Psychology (BA) and Philosophy & World Religions (BA) from Rowan University. Danielle has worked in clinical mental health, geriatric care, in special education, and as a crisis interventionist. She has also provided psychoeducation services and lectures for over eight years, both locally and internationally. You can reach her at asdquestion@gmail.com

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Spirit of Giving

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Give Back to the Profession:

Sponsor a Student! As we enter this season of giving thanks, NASW-NJ is thankful for you! Your work and service is especially essential during these times and you make a difference to thousands of people. Thank you! This Fall, NASW-NJ launched a campaign asking our social work community to sponsor NASW memberships for social work students. Times are tough – financially and emotionally – and we want to support future leaders in the profession: our students. Nurturing our social workers in training ensures the legacy of social work will continue into the next generation. As a change agent in our community, you can help keep social work generations strong by sponsoring a student membership. Student membership costs $60 and helps provide students with connections to mentors and colleagues, as well as networking and other benefits.

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DON’T TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT. This is what Jessica B. had to say about why student membership is important to her: As I entered my second and f inal year [of graduate school], I immediately felt the pressure of gaining experience quickly, f inishing strong in my classes, graduation, the examination and of course, job searching. I ’ve been inquiring around my internship different ways to conquer these pressures and many responses have been to become a member of the NASW. I ’ve heard of myriad of reasons…resources, exam tips, networking, and continued updates on the f ield/research. Our staff and volunteer leaders have already pledged to sponsor 50 student memberships. Will you join us in connecting our students to their premier professional organization?

Here is why NASW-NJ Board member, Dawn Konrady, is participating in the challenge: As a member of the NASW-NJ Board, I wanted to give back in a way that would possibly have the most direct impact. What better way to do so than to sponsor a student developing their skills and who will soon be joining me in the profession? I take great joy in mentoring and developing connections with others and as a f ield instructor. Especially during such a diff icult time, I felt compelled to take an extra step and offer an opportunity for several students who may not have otherwise had a chance to join NASW-NJ at this time. Furthermore, the programming they will now have access to throughout this year will only enhance their f ield experience and strengthen their skills as beginning social workers, so that ’s why I made the decision to sponsor several students this year.

All of us at NASW-NJ give thanks to you for your ser vice and membership. We now ask if you will invest in the future of social work and sponsor a student membership. To sponsor a student, make a secure donation here . If you want to sponsor a par ticular student please email Helen French at : h french .naswnj@socialworkers.org and she will work with you.

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T H A N K YO U !

Giving Thanks:

The Neurophysiology of Gratitude by Robin Bilazarian, LCSW, DCSW, DCEP "Our brains lock onto difficult moments as evidence to prove our negative, untrusting belief system. Flipping to a perspective of gratitude interrupts the brain’s negativity bias, potentially altering the confirmation bias to be able to see positives." “Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others.” Marcus Tullius Cicero - Italian Statesman and Philosopher – Lived 0106-0043 BC

ratitude is an ancient practice that has been in our lives since our parents taught us to say, “thank you.” Gratitude helps switch the brain’s focus, changes biochemistry, enhances social connection, and has free, mass application—all useful in the COVID-19 medical and mental health crisis. The neurophysiological benefits of gratitude are plenty. Gratitude shifts the focus to what you have, rather than the scarcity mindset of what you don’t have. Gratitude interrupts our brain’s built-in negativity bias. Our beneficial short-term reaction for safety is paramount, but ongoing anguish is disruptive. Our brains also have a confirmation bias, meaning the brain looks to validate what we already know. Our brains lock onto difficult moments as evidence to prove our negative, untrusting belief system. Flipping to a perspective of gratitude interrupts the brain’s negativity bias, potentially altering the confirmation bias to be able to see positives. The more we focus on gratitude, the better. What we pay attention to, grows. Psychologist Donald Olding Hebb said, “Neurons that fire together, wire together.” The more times a certain neural pathway (gratitude) is activated (neurons firing together), the easier the practice of gratitude next time (neurons wiring together). This is known as brain neuroplasticity.

Additionally, there are the four “happy” neurotransmitters and hormones released as we shift into a gratitude mindset. •

Dopamine, the “reward center”—often studied in reaction to cocaine, chocolate, and even the “bling” noise of an arriving text message—is activated. The release of dopamine makes you want to repeat the experience—feeling good is enhanced.

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Serotonin, a neurotransmitter, is a key agent in many antidepressants. Practicing gratitude increases serotonin levels, giving us more determination, attention, better mood, enthusiasm, and energy.

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Oxytocin, the bonding chemical, increases when we experience gratitude. This neurotransmitter goes to the bliss center of the brain, including feeling loved, friendships, marriages, and social connectedness. Gratitude is one glue that connects people.

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Endorphins make us feel focused, good, pain relief and pleasure. Rejection is experienced as pain. Endorphins are often associated with “runner’s high.” They have a pain fighting, natural morphinelike component. Gratitude triggers the release of endorphins.

Another neurophysiological benefit of gratitude happens in the Autonomic Nervous System—the system that manages fight, flight, freeze, immobility, and rest responses. Dr. Stephen Porges’ Polyvagal Theory explains

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how the large vagus nerve extends from our gut and touches almost every organ in our body until it connects to the brain stem. Its function is to scan for safety and, when at rest, for higher level social connection. Porges’ frequent collaborator, social worker Deb Dana, points to gratitude as an easy experience that grows over time to increase the desired ventral vagal nerve state, the parasympathetic beneficial response. Expressed gratitude among people has benefit. There is a “contagiousness” between people, meaning our brains function interpersonally, as if connected with a brainto-brain linkup. Be it through mirror neurons, oxytocin release, or another method, the attitude of gratitude recenters, humors, and relaxes both people involved. The practice of gratitude has many more benefits. PTSD, depression, anxiety, cardiac and cardiac inflammatory markers, and blood pressure are all lowered by the expression of gratitude. Immune system functioning, resilience, self-care, generosity and giving, feelings of safety, self-acceptance, compassion, cortisol stress hormone, and parasympathetic nervous system are all more activated.

Exercising Your Gratitude Muscle Gratitude is an experiential journey where the practice is superior to the explanation. Here are some questions, actions, and considerations to help strengthen your gratitude muscle. •

What are 3-5 things you are grateful for today?

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Consider keeping a daily gratitude journal, 5 things per day (per Oprah).

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Identify someone who can be your “grateful partner” with whom you share 3-5 things daily for which you are grateful.

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Contemplate ending client sessions with 3-5 things of gratitude.

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Consider sending notes and emails of appreciation at the office, at home, to stores, to family and friends, service providers and others.

Balancing “negative” feelings or experiences with positive statements or gratitude can be extremely beneficial. Acknowledge both with statements like: “This was horrible AND I am grateful it is over;” or, “I am upset he quit AND glad I have time to do this project myself.” I encourage you to engage in the practice of gratitude— particularly during difficult times like we are currently experiencing. Pump up your immune system, interrupt habitual doom and gloom, quiet the body and the mind, and be grateful such a simple attitude of gratitude can have such far-reaching advantages. This article draws on concepts and research previously published in Bilazarian, Robin (2018). Tapping the Mighty Mind-Simple Solutions for Stress, Conflict, and Pain. North Charleston, South Carolina: Create Space Independent Publishing.

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About the Author: Robin Bilazarian, LCSW, DCSW, DCEP, graduate of UPenn and UNC Schools of Social Work, is a seasoned psychotherapist, author, and national trainer with a passion for teaching how to bring mind-body techniques into clinical practice. She is a brief therapy expert practicing in Mount Laurel, NJ. Learn more at http://RobinEFT.net

Members Only Perks

ith nearly 6,500 members in our New Jersey family, you are part of a larger family of social workers, a network of friends and colleagues who share your commitment to the profession and strengthening our community. While the chapter has many opportunities to connect on a broader level—from educational programs to advocacy events, there are also many great ways for you to connect with your colleagues locally or on a specific area of interest. Read on to learn some ways in which you as a member can build your connections, network and grow in smaller, more intimate spaces—and virtually!

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MEMBER CONNECT

MEMBER NEWS Welcome to Member News—the newest feature in NASW-NJ FOCUS. This space will be dedicated to celebrating the professional achievements of our members from around New Jersey. Have you recently received a promotion? Started a new job? Opened your own practice? Been appointed to a Board of Directors or other organizational leadership position? Had a study funded or received a grant for your work? Keynoting at a major conference? Been published in a peer reviewed journal, featured in major news media, or published a book? Declared candidacy for or won elected office? Let us know! We want to highlight your professional accomplishments to underscore the great work being done by social workers in our state. Send submissions to jfeldman.naswnj@socialworkers.org.

Ralph Cuseglio, PhD, LCSW had a Letter to the Editor published in the Asbury Park Press: “Restore funding for critical youth mental health resources.”

Marin De Leon, LSW was recently promoted to Director of Training at Shine Early Learning.

Marline Francois-Madden, LCSW, began her doctoral work at Montclair State University, researching youth prevention programs for mental health and substance abuse in Paterson, NJ.

Widian Nicola, DSW, LCSW, had an Op-Ed published on NJ.com: “Sterilizing immigrant detainees must stop now.”

Claire Solu-Burd, LCSW opened a private practice in Chatham, NJ last month.

Jennifer Sorensen, MSW student and current MSW Student Representative on the NASW-NJ Board of Directors, was recently appointed Co-Chair of the new Mental Health Subcommittee of the Rutgers Graduate Student Association. 42 | NJFOCUS •November 2020

MEMBER CONNECT

OUR GIFT TO YOU! FREE CEUS!! Here we are, eight months into the COVID-19 pandemic. If you’re like us here at the Chapter office, being online constantly is starting to become tiring—Zoom calls, webinars, FaceTime, Skype, GoToMeeting… it seems endless. In order to combat this growing “Zoom fatigue” we’re going to try something new in FOCUS. Starting with this issue, instead of offering access to a free online CEU webinar, we’re going to get you offline for some old-fashioned reading! We’ll be featuring select articles from the journal Social Work (all members have access to this journal as a benefit of membership) and offering a free CEU to those who read the article(s) and complete the required post-test. This month, we’ve selected two articles for your free CEU opportunity. Combined, it should take you 4550 minutes to read both articles and complete the brief post-test. Upon completion, you will receive 1 Social/Cultural or Clinical CE Credit. • Depression, Loneliness, and Suicide Risk among Latino College Students: A Test of a Psychosocial Interaction Model. Social Work, Volume 64, Issue 1, January 2019, Pages 51–60. • Achieving Justice for Girls in the Juvenile Justice System. Social Work, Volume 65, Issue 2, April 2020, Pages 149–158. You can access the articles and the post-test at: www.naswnj.socialworkers.org/Membership/NJMember-Freebies You will need your username and password. So, print out those articles, unplug from your computer, settle down with your favorite hot beverage and spend some quiet time offline. Happy reading!!

Supporting the Needs of Members During a Pandemic: NASW-NJ Units Are Here to Help by Cheryl Cohen, MSW, LCSW and Veronica Grysko-Sporer, MSW

he Morris County Unit of NASW-NJ is currently 484 members strong. Despite the large number of members, in the fall of 2019, we, as Unit leaders, were feeling a bit disheartened. We were experiencing low turnout for our meetings, so we strategized with the staff at the Chapter office about how to draw in more members. One thing we decided was to send out reminder notices a few days before our meetings, and suddenly we had a 4-fold increase in attendance! Our reinvigorated Unit started 2020 strong, with presentations at our Unit meetings on topics including DBT skills, LGBTQIA+, alcohol abuse, and yoga. These events kept our members connected and helped inspire thought-provoking ideas. Then COVID-19 hit and brought our momentum to a halt. Everyone was scrambling just to figure out how to cope with day-to-day living and our Unit meetings fell by the wayside. Flash forward to the summer of 2020. As leaders, we knew the members of our Unit had to be struggling to deal with the pandemic, racial injustice, and all the associated fallout of this crazy year. We believed we had a commitment to our members to restart our meetings virtually and offer programming to help

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MEMBER CONNECT

them cope with the stresses they faced. We surveyed our members to learn if they found our programs interesting and helpful. We also asked what topics they were interested in, and how often they wanted to meet, given the pandemic. Based on the results of the survey we decided to meet once every other month via Zoom and our meetings would have a strong focus on mental health. Our members were beginning to feel somewhat isolated from each other and needed human connection. Our first presentation of the 2020-21 year was titled: “Let’s Talk About Us; Navigating Our New Territory,” where we addressed the stresses and opportunities that COVID-19 has created. At that meeting, many of our members expressed feeling isolated and alone. It was apparent they needed a place where social workers could meet and share how the pandemic has affected them.

responsibilities as Chairs of one of those Units—as critical in creating supportive space for our members to help them navigate the unique challenges they are facing, especially due to the pandemic. Unit meetings provide opportunities for members to come together to solve our individual and group challenges. As Unit chairs, we are committed to meeting the needs of our Unit members and stress the importance of becoming active in your local Unit—for support, volunteer leadership opportunities, access to resources, and staying connected to the NASW-NJ Chapter and the profession. We’d like to thank all of our Unit members for supporting the Morris Unit and each other. Stay safe!

We became excited to offer other ways to help our Unit members. We received approval from the Chapter to begin hosting virtual drop-in support meetings, which we’ve named “Social Workers Need Support Too.” Our first drop-in meeting was held in October. Many of our Unit members joined the virtual discussion to share their concerns and frustrations. They spoke of the difficulty of having virtual sessions with clients, both via video and teleconference, while having had little to no experience with either platform. Many clinicians felt the impact of lost non-verbal communication—the ability to read client body language vanished, leaving fewer indicators of how a client was feeling. Some of our Unit members were still holding in-person sessions in a school or agency, and expressed frustration with trying to speak and listen from behind a mask. In spite of this, our members were able to find the positive side of identifying and implementing new ways to offer support and counseling to meet their clients’ needs. In addition to facing an array of struggles on the job, our Unit members talked about their struggles in their personal lives. They shared concerns about their families, loved ones, isolation, and worries regarding the impact of current events on their children. All this while attempting to manage their clients. We see NASW-NJ’s 12 regional Units—and our

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About the Authors: Cheryl Cohen, MSW, LCSW and Veronica Grysko-Sporer, MSW are Chair and Co-Chair respectively of the NASW-NJ Chapter’s Morris Unit.

MEMBER CONNECT

Dear colleagues, While this year has been filled with many uncertainties, NASW-NJ and social workers across the state have stood strong and held true to the values of our profession. We have continued to provide services to the most vulnerable, advocated for the disenfranchised, and raised our voices around the social justice issues that have erupted nationally and statewide. This November, we have another opportunity to raise our voices and be heard in the 2020 general elections. NASW-NJ’s Road to November campaign offered a series of free webinars and resources this election cycle to help social workers and the community at-large engage fully in the general elections. Voters across New Jersey have been using the state’s new mail-in voting system— established to ensure a robust election despite the realities of COVID-19—to make their voices heard over the past few weeks. While we may not know the outcome of the elections on Election Night, we should soon have definitive results and a better idea of where we are headed as a nation. You know that voting—whether in federal, state, or local elections—is one of the most impactful things you can do for yourself and your community. Social workers that vote can have an indelible impact on election outcomes and, therefore, legislation, government, and policy. As a Chapter, we participate in the electoral process through the NASW-NJ PACE Committee. The PACE (Political Action for Candidate Election) Committee is the political arm for NASW-NJ. NASW-NJ PACE endorses and financially contributes to candidates running for state or local office from any party who support our policy agenda (the NASW National PACE Committee makes endorsements and contributions in federal elections). NASW-NJ PACE anticipates a high level of activity and engagement in the coming year, with the full NJ legislature and the Governorship up for election. This is our chance to take action on our social work values to ensure an active voice and full representation for underserved and disadvantaged individuals, families, and communities across our state.

I hope you will consider supporting NASW-NJ PACE by making a financial contribution. Your donation allows us to attend campaign events, support candidates who reflect social work values, and participate in grassroots voting initiatives. Contributions to NASW-NJ PACE can be made by both NASW members and non-members (contributions to NASW National PACE can only be made by NASW members). Making a contribution to NASW-NJ PACE ensures that our chapter can continue to strengthen relationships with candidates who support the values, ethics and issues surrounding our profession. This is a critical piece of our advocacy work, as it helps ensure that our legislators are aligned with our policy perspectives and will ensure that social workers continue to have a seat at the table on policy related issues. All funds donated to NASW-NJ PACE stay within our chapter/state. Make Donations to: NASW-NJ PACE 30 Silverline Dr., Suite 3 North Brunswick, NJ 08902 Help us be your voice in Trenton. We can't do this without you!

In solidarity, La'Tesha Sampson, Ph.D, MPA, MSW, LCSW Chair, NASW-NJ PACE

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UPCOMING

Unit Events

Nov.05 Sussex Warren Unit Event (Culturally Sensitive Responses for the Autistic Population: Perspective from an Autistic Service User and Service Provider, a Live Q&A) 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Nov.12 Essex PPSIG (Personal Branding and Social Media) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Monmouth Ocean Unit Meeting (Social Work Licensure in NJ) 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Bergen Passaic PPSIG 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Nov.16

Dec. 10 Essex PPSIG (Prescriber Meet & Greet) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Monmouth Ocean PPSIG 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Bergen Passaic PPSIG 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Dec. 14 Bergen Passaic Unit Event (Employment, Sexuality, & Other Trending Topics in Adulthood for those with Disabilities) 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Dec. 21 Mercer Burlington PPSIG 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Mercer Burlington PPSIG 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Jan. 4

Essex Unit Meeting (Open Forum Check-in) 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Bergen Passaic Unit Event (CALM during High School and College Years: Why Understanding Your Nervous System is the Key to Serenity) 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Bergen Passaic Unit Meeting (Recognizing the Signs of Healthy vs. Unhealthy Relationships and Asserting Boundaries) 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Nov.18

Jan. 13

Morris Unit Event (TEAM-CBT: A New Approach to All Modalities of Therapy) 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Mercer Burlington Unit Event (TBD) 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

46 | NJFOCUS â&#x20AC;˘ November 2020for these programs and more on our website. Register

MEMBER CONNECT

Protecting Children from Violence: Advancing the Global Profession of Social Work

iolence against children is a global public health concern and a hidden crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic.1 Every year, approximately 1 billion children, worldwide, experience some form of physical, sexual, and/or psychological violence. An estimated eight million children worldwide live in residential institutions, or so called â&#x20AC;&#x153;orphanages,â&#x20AC;? that deny them their rights and basic social and psychological needs.2 Three in four young children experience violent discipline by a caregiver and one in three children are bullied. Approximately 15 million girls aged 15-19 are forced to have sex during their lifetime.3 The COVID-19 pandemic has further increased the risks of violence against children, while national, local, and family resources are increasingly constrained.4 Addressing violence against children is embodied in the United Nations 2030 Agenda's UN Sustainable Development Goal 16, target 16.2: End abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence and torture of children. Achieving this basic child right requires governments to invest in health, justice, education, and social services that are equally accessible to all. Key to access is a strong social service workforce that is based in a strong social work profession.5

Advocating for the advancement of social work as a global profession has become my lifelong work and passion! I began my international career as a Fulbright Scholar in 1992 that took me to Romania for 10 months with a goal of helping in the development of the social work profession. Social work had been eliminated as a profession in Romania under the Communist Regime. I developed curricula and taught social work methods courses in the re-established Social Work Program at the University of Bucharest. As national and international concern grew about the extensive use of institutions in Romania to house children whose parents had few community alternatives, Romanian child advocates and international donors saw an opportunity for the development of the social work profession. Extending the Fulbright for a second year gave me the opportunity to become involved in child welfare reform initiatives including curricula development for paraprofessional training and strengthening field education. Beginning in 1998, I was asked to lead the child welfare reform initiative with World Vision International funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The established goal was to

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MEMBER CONNECT

reduce the number of children in institutional care in three demonstration counties, setting up a comprehensive and coordinated system of community-based services. Drawing from experiences and lessons learned from work in Romania, I have continued to partner with social workers and child advocates in other countries to support their child welfare workforce strengthening efforts. Over my career, I have had the opportunity to partner with social workers, social work educators, and social work advocates in a number of countries in Europe and Central Asia and Sub Saharan Africa in social service workforce strengthening initiatives. Recent projects include workforce assessments in Eastern Europe and Nigeria, and child protection capacity building in Malawi, Swaziland, and Ghana. I co-authored a working paper on Child Protection System Strengthening in Sub Saharan Africa for UNICEF (2012) and a Case management toolkit: A user’s guide for strengthening case management services in child welfare in 2014. My global service continues as member and Chair of the Steering Committee for the Global Social Service Workforce Alliance and Representative of the International Association of Schools of Social Works (IASSW) to the United Nations. As Director of the Office of Global Social Work Programs at Rutgers University, I have the unique honor of taking students to Romania, as well as other countries, to learn from the many talented and committed social workers that challenge injustices and make our world more just and safe.

CONGRATUL ATIONS to Dr. Rebecca Davis for being named a Social Work Pioneer by the NASW Foundation. NASW Pioneers are social workers who have explored new territories and built outposts for human services on many frontiers. Each Pioneer has made an important contribution to the social work profession, and to social policies through service, teaching, writing, research, program development, administration, or legislation. Learn more about Dr. Davis and her work on her NASW Pioneers webpage.

Now more than ever, we need social workers empowered to take a deep dive into who we are and what we represent as a global profession. Given the shared pandemics we face, we have the opportunity to harness the power of relationships and challenge power, privilege, and oppression within and outside our profession. World Health Organization. (2020, April). Joint leaders’ statement – Violence Against Children: A hidden crisis of the Covid-19 pandemic. https://www.who.int/news/item/08-042020-joint-leader-s-statement---violence-against-children-a-hidden-crisis-of-the-covid-19pandemic

End Violence Against Children – The Global Partnership. (2020). Annual Report 2019: Power of partnership. https://www.end-violence.org/sites/default/files/2020-09/2019%20Annual%20 Report.pdf

UNICEF. (2020). End Violence Against Children: Key Asks for SDG 2020 Voluntary National Reviews. https://www.unicef.org/media/64471/file/sdg16_2EVAC_2pager_final.pdf

Global Social Service Workforce Alliance & UNICEF. (2020). Results matrix for social service workforce strengthening (Indicators 12-16, p. 11). http://socialserviceworkforce.org/sites/default/ files/uploads/Results-Matrix-for-SSW-Strengthening.pdf

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About the Author: Rebecca Davis is Associate Professor for Professional Practice and Director of the Office of Global Social Work Programs at Rutgers University School of Social Work. She received her MSW from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1974, and PhD in Child and Family Studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 1983. She has a Clinical Social Work License in New Jersey and North Carolina.

Share your Interests . Share your Voice .

NASW-NJ Shared Interest Groups

he beauty of our profession is that it is diverse. From academia to private practice, macro social work to healthcare, there is no area that social work does not touch in some way. While we often come together in larger groups— sharing our different perspectives and from different places—sometimes its good to find your smaller group of “people”—social workers with shared interests or areas of practice. These smaller places are a great place to discuss unique challenges and needs in the field, as well as brainstorm on programs and help shape specific learning events that the Chapter hosts. Over the last several months our Chapter has expanded our Shared Interest Groups to meet your needs—giving you more opportunities to connect and collaborate. These dedicated spaces meet on various schedules (virtually for now) and are busy sharing best practices in school social work, healthcare, and more. We invite you to check out the Shared Interest Groups and join a conversation or program. You can sign up for Shared Interest Group information here.

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PROVIDING THE SKILLS TO GET AHEAD

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