Date
Saturday
Mar

March 1-31

National Social Work Month

Show your support and appreciation for all the hardworking social workers during National Social Work Month - they make a difference in so many lives!

Yearly Date
March 1
Type
Month

Introduction

Let’s celebrate National Social Work Month on March 1st! This month is dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the work of social workers around the world. It was first created in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy as a way to recognize the important contributions that social workers make to our society. From providing support and guidance to helping people through difficult times, social workers are true heroes who dedicate their lives to helping others. So let’s take this month to show our appreciation for all the hard work they do!

National Social Work Month Timeline

1898
Early Social Work Movement
The beginning of the organized social work profession in the United States, marked by the establishment of the New York School of Philanthropy.
1955
NASW Formation
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) was established, aimed at unifying social workers and promoting their profession.
1963
Presidential Proclamation
President John F. Kennedy declared March as National Social Work Month as a way to recognize the important contributions of social workers.
1984
Social Workers' Safety
The NASW addressed social workers' safety for the first time after increased reports of workplace violence.
2005
Social Work Reinvestment Act
Introduction of the Social Work Reinvestment Act aimed at improving working conditions and funding for social workers.
2018
Increased Recognition
Multiple states in the US officially recognized March as Social Work Month, contributing to increased visibility and recognition.

How to Celebrate National Social Work Month

1

Attend a conference

Attend a local or national conference related to social work. This will give you a chance to learn from leading professionals and connect with others in the field.

2

Organize a fundraising event

Organize a fundraising event to help support social work initiatives in your community. Ask local businesses to donate items for silent auctions or raffles, or plan a benefit dinner or concert.

3

Volunteer with a local organization

Find a local organization that is focused on social work that needs volunteers and offer your services. This will give you the opportunity to put your skills to use for a good cause.

4

Share stories online

Share stories of people whose lives have been changed by social work on social media channels like Twitter and Facebook. This will help raise awareness of the importance of social work.

5

Write letters of appreciation

Write letters of appreciation to social workers who have made an impact in your life or in your community. This will help recognize their hard work and dedication.

Why National Social Work Month is Important

A

Social workers help people in need

Social workers are dedicated to helping individuals, families and communities who are facing difficult times. They provide support, resources and guidance that can make a huge difference in the lives of those who are struggling.

B

Social work promotes social justice

By working with marginalized populations, social workers fight for social justice and strive to create a more equitable society. Through their advocacy efforts they seek to ensure everyone has access to the same rights, privileges and opportunities, regardless of age, race, gender or income level.

C

Social work is an effective form of mental health treatment

Social workers address mental health issues by providing psychotherapy and other forms of counseling. These interventions can help individuals develop coping skills to manage stress, anxiety and depression, as well as life skills such as problem solving and communication.

National Social Work Month Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Feb 28
Tuesday
2024
Feb 29
Thursday
2025
Feb 28
Friday
2026
Feb 28
Saturday
2027
Feb 28
Sunday