SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 21

(By Senators Stollings, Prezioso, Palumbo, Laird, M. Hall, Romano, Williams, Kirkendoll, Kessler, Beach, Plymale, D. Hall and Nohe)

Recognizing February 4, 2015, as Social Work Day in celebration and support of the social work profession.

            Whereas, Social workers make a positive difference in the lives of millions of Americans and thousands of West Virginians by helping to build, support and empower positive family and community relationships; and

            Whereas, Social workers in schools enhance the social, emotional and academic growth of all students; and

            Whereas, Social workers in hospitals help patients navigate their paths to recovery and better coordinate care and prevent hospital readmission rate; and

            Whereas, Social workers in agencies and organizations help protect vulnerable children and adults from abuse and neglect; and

            Whereas, Clinical social workers are authorized to diagnose and treat mental and behavioral health disorders and frequently receive insurance reimbursement for their professional services; and

            Whereas, Social workers have worked to strengthen the social safety net through programs such as Medicaid, Medicare and the Affordable Health Care Act and advocated the social justice initiatives such as the Voting Rights Acts and the Community Mental Health Act; and  

            Whereas, Social workers, more than any other profession, recognize that more must be done to address persistent social problems such as poverty, lack of education and access to health care, and to end discrimination based on gender, race, sexuality or income; and

            Whereas, The National Association of Social Workers has selected the theme “Social Work Paves the Way for Change” for 2015 Social Work Month in an effort to convey that, for over six decades, social work professionals and the NASW have brought about positive changes in society and for individuals; therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate:

            That the Senate hereby recognizes February 4, 2015, as Social Work Day in celebration and support of the social work profession; and, be it

            Further Resolved, That the Senate acknowledges the contributions of social workers to our state and nation and urges all citizens to join with the West Virginia Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers and the State of West Virginia in celebration and support of the social work profession; and, be it

            Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to the West Virginia Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers.