SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 19

(By Senators Foster, Unger, Jenkins, Browning, Stollings, Williams, Yost, Klempa, Kessler (Mr. President) and Prezioso)

Designating February 1, 2012, as “Social Work Day” at the Legislature.

    Whereas, Social workers are positive change agents who dedicate their careers to helping people transform their lives, or improving environments that make such progress possible; and

    Whereas, More than 640,000 trained Social Work professionals in the United States work tirelessly in agencies, hospitals, hospices, schools, universities, legislatures, private practices, corporations and the military; and

    Whereas, Social workers are advocates for access, equality and fairness; and

    Whereas, Social workers improve the fabric of society by caring for those who have been left behind, or for those who have lost their voice; and

    Whereas, Social workers help people explore new opportunities in the face of serious life changes and challenges; and

    Whereas, The Social Work profession was established more than 100 years ago to help Americans overcome poverty, illness, addiction, abuse, discrimination and other adversities to reach their full potential; and

    Whereas, The Social Work profession works to change systems and customs that limit the ability of vulnerable individuals and groups to lead fulfilling and productive lives; and

    Whereas, Schools of Social Work train socially conscious people to make a real difference in the world through service and leadership; and

    Whereas, Social Workers strengthen communities, expand options and work to facilitate humane changes in policies and legislation that improve the lives of everyone; and

    Whereas, Everyday, Social Workers wake up believing they give an individual, a family, or a community renewed hope in the future; therefore, be it

    Resolved by the Senate:

    That the Senate hereby designates February 1, 2012, as “Social Work Day” at the Legislature; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to the appropriate officials representing social workers.