My first anniversary with NASW-MO falls June 6th. What a privilege to be your Executive Director! Serving alongside an amazing board, supported by wonderful staff, I visited colleges of social work, presented to classes, and gave workshops. I attended conferences and protests in our state’s and our nation’s capitals. I represented Missouri at NASW events in Washington, D.C. and Phoenix. I represented NASW-MO members at State Committee meetings and in the media. And I spent hours in Missouri’s Capitol in hearing after hearing.
What a whirlwind first year!
And, wonderfully, I have had the honor to meet so many amazing social workers! I have enjoyed talking to our members (and nonmembers) to answer questions about policy and advocacy, to problem-solve, and to just connect. From case managers to educators, students to clinicians, the profession of social work is thriving in Missouri. We want to be there for the profession!
But here’s the thing. To continue to do this work, NASW-MO needs our membership to build and sustain. I have spent this past year learning and laying the groundwork for greater good in the upcoming years. NASW-MO has been able to accomplish a lot this year, but the work is far from finished (please check out our article breaking down the 2023 Legislative Session for more information)!
We need to work towards greater equity and inclusion within our profession here in Missouri, as well as continuing to advocate to protect and serve vulnerable populations. How do we address the workforce shortage that negatively impacts us (in burnout) and our clients (in quality of life)? We need greater funding in our systems of care, again for both our own well-being and that of vulnerable clients. How do we as a profession continue to live and practice our ethics and protect our practice?
NASW-MO wants to live into those questions. We want to be part of the solution. And we are asking that you be part of it, too. Your membership allows us to elevate your voice and the voice of social work now and in the years to come.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve you and our profession.
In solidarity,
Cassie E. Brown, MSW, LCSW (she/her/hers)
Executive Director, NASW-MO