DSS Recognizes National Social Workers Month
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 2, 2018
Contact: Kathleen Goetzman
DSS Recognizes National Social Workers Month
COLUMBIA, SC – The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) recognizes March as National Social Workers Month. “Having a month dedicated to recognizing social workers gives us a chance to thank our case workers not only for their hard work, but their heart work and dedication to families we serve,” said DSS State Director, Susan Alford.
DSS caseworkers provide services and support to the community in a variety of ways: foster care services, child protective services, employment and training services, adoption and adult protective services. This year, DSS workers were asked why they chose the field of social work to pursue their career goals. Here is what a few workers said:
Mari Squire
Program Coordinator/ Financial Specialist/GOALL (Go Out and Learn Life) Liaison
“I chose social work because I love people in general and want each person to be empowered beyond survival, to go as far as they can dream. It’s rewarding to see a person realize their potential.”
Deanne Barnes
Family Preservation caseworker with Anderson County DSS
“My former occupation was a school teacher while also being a foster parent. When I decided I needed a career change, I knew I still wanted to help children in some way. Becoming a caseworker has been a perfect fit for me. I like making sure children are safe and helping their families as well. Seeing a family successfully reunited is the best reward of my job!
Jackie Lowe
Director of Child Placing Agency and Group Home Licensing and Interim Director for Foster Family Licensing
“I could have chosen any career path, but I think social work chose me. I have memories of always helping someone. As a child, I’d make sure no one was left without a buddy for lunch. As an adult managing staff, I work to meet the needs of children and families. Social work is a profession that provides opportunities to teach some, to help others, and to be an advocate for the most vulnerable among us.”
Florence T. Harrison
Facilitator of Employment Preparation Program Newberry County DSS
“I have always been very passionate about helping individuals in ways that makes a positive difference in their lives. What I like most about being a social worker is empowering our clients, and my job here at Newberry County DSS landed me in the right place to empower our clients and make a positive difference in our their lives. Our clients have the opportunity each week to visit other agencies in the community, such as Adult Education, the Library, Newberry Literacy Council, SC Works, and Piedmont Technical College.”
The Department of Social Services currently has job openings for caseworkers. For more information visit https://dss.sc.gov/about/careers/
Also, below is the official South Carolina Social Work Month Proclamation from Governor Henry McMaster.
