This month is #socialworkermonth. We commemorate social workers all around the world. This year we focus and reflect on how social workers can break barriers in bringing inclusivity to society. Diversity is a significant value and practice within Community Development and the Social Work field (Palmer & Watkins, 2017). Social work as a profession is diverse by its nature. Regardless of the field of practice, social workers are dedicated to empowering and uplifting marginalised societies – naturally, inclusivity and diversity are core to this mission.
It is important for us to familiarise ourselves with the community that we serve by building relationships with the stakeholders and participants and providing us with the opportunity to become more inclusive in our work. As case workers, we adopt an integrative approach in our work. This holistic approach considers the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being of our participants (Oxhandler, 2019). In doing so, we are able to provide psychosocial support and services that are inclusive of our students’ diverse needs. As Social Workers, we serve regardless of culture, gender, religion, age, or race. In doing so, we break down barriers.
We have the skills and compassion to create safe environments in this welfare profession. We embrace and celebrate the diversity our beneficiaries bring to our work. At the Sozo Foundation, we take diversity and inclusivity seriously. Across our programs, we work towards giving all students the unique care that will take them from where they are to achieving their goals and dreams.