Phoenix VA Celebrates Social Work Month

March is Social Work Month and creates time to celebrate the remarkable profession of social work. The 2025 National Association of Social Work (NASW) theme “Social Work Compassion + Action”, highlights how social workers are called to turn their compassion into action. The theme is embodied in the years of education and training social workers go through to develop the skills and expertise to be able to help families, individuals, communities, and the larger society reach their full potential. Social workers meet people where they are and provide compassionate guidance and support.

You will find social workers everywhere—in schools, hospitals, and at the federal, state, and local levels in government, corporations, Veterans centers, and social service agencies. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the social work profession is projected to grow 7% between now and 2033. By then more than 836,000 social workers will be employed in the United States, making social work one of the fastest growing professions.

Our own Social Work Service Committee, SQUAD, organized and planned the Annual Social Work Service Awards and Recognition Breakfast, which was held on March 6, 2025 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

The Annual Social Work Service Awards and Recognition Breakfast was held to celebrate social work month and recognize members of the social work service who are going above and beyond, handling difficult and challenging situations. There were about 90 social work staff who attended the breakfast in person and more joined virtually on Teams. Over 30 social workers were recognized and given an award at the breakfast for the outstanding service and dedication they provide to our Veterans. Also, Dr. Dorsey and the Social Work Leadership Team recognized Debbie Dominick for her outstanding leadership as the Chief of Social Work Service.