WHW RECOGNIZES STAFF DURING NATIONAL SOCIAL WORK MONTH 2023

The month of March marks the celebration of National Social Work Month. Every day, social workers support people in navigating complex systems. They are uniquely positioned to identify and address systemic gaps, provide key services and programs, and strengthen communities to what they need, all while applying the skills to build a more just world. 

 

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, social workers became more essential than before, helping their clients navigate an even more complex world, all while navigating the systems in their own personal lives. The mental health staff remained steadfast in their work, advocating for their clients, listening to hardships and loss, connecting clients to services that were still in operation, sometimes with extremely limited means. Mental health and social work staff worked tirelessly to adjust to a shifting social and community climate during the pandemic, continuing to do so on a daily basis. With the pandemic slowing, and the community opening up once again, social workers continue to provide support and networking.

 

The Mental Health Support program would like to recognize and extend its sincerest appreciation for Melissa Jacobs-Swamp, Registered Social Worker, for her continued efforts and advocacy for the mental health of the Akwesasne community. Melissa has been with the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne for 19 years, having served as a Mental Health Therapist and a Registered Social Worker in Mental Health Support for the last 5 years. Melissa is seen as a valued resource and team member who is vocal and passionate about the health and well-being of the Akwesasne community. 

 

We thank Melissa for her contributions, hard work, and dedication to the Akwesasne community.