Celebrated each March, National Professional Social Work Month is an opportunity for social workers across the country to turn the spotlight on the profession and highlight the important contributions they make to society. There are more than 700,000 social workers in the United States who have amazing tenacity and talent. Every day, they confront some of the most challenging issues facing individuals, families, communities, and society.

“I chose social work because I enjoy helping people,” says Wesbury Social Worker, Bethany Evans. “I am here to help them live their best life while Wesbury is their home.  My favorite part of this job is getting to know the residents.  I enjoy the one-on-one time when they share stories about their families and past experiences with me.”

Social work is a profession with expansive borders. You will find social workers everywhere in our society. They are in schools, in centers for veterans, in health care facilities, and in local, state, and federal government, to name a few. In fact, many people do not know social workers account for the largest group of mental health care providers in the United States or that the VA is the largest employer of social workers with master’s degrees. At Wesbury, the Social Workers’ primary function is to see that a resident’s rights are protected while living on campus.

“Moving into a nursing or personal care facility is a life-changing event not only for the new resident but their family members as well,” says Wesbury Social Worker, Judy McKennon. “Living in an unfamiliar environment with people you do not know can take time, and we are here to support the resident and family, providing psychosocial and emotional support throughout their stay.”

Thank you, Bethany and Judy, for all you do for Wesbury residents and their families!