November 2023 Newsletter

NASW-MO Collaborates with Leading Social Justice, Voting Rights Organizations


This fall, NASW-MO is connecting with other prominent organizations, including the Springfield League of Women Voters and the NAACP of Joplin, to promote awareness of important issues, based on intensive advocacy in 2023. These and other groups are outreaching NASW-MO as a leader on issues of social justice, as well as thoughtful analysts of policy problem-solving. (To be an ongoing part of this, all members are invited to participate in the Policy Priorities Survey for 2024. Be on the lookout for the upcoming email and social media information!)

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Gender-Affirming Care, Macro Social Work, and Suicide Prevention: NASW-MO Upcoming Educational Events Are Unique and Valuable!


NASW continually offers excellent continuing education opportunities. However, there are some special opportunities upcoming.

December 6th, 2023 11am-12:30pm Central Time, NASW (National) will be offering a session called Gender-Affirming Care in Social Work: Exploring and Managing Ethical Responsibilities. NASW-MO Executive Director Cassie E. Brown said, “This is a session Missouri’s social workers have been begging for since SB 49 was passed. It will not be the end of these conversations, but it will be a great opportunity.” (SB 49 prohibits some elements of gender-affirming care for minors in Missouri, such as surgeries, puberty blockers, and hormones.) 

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Ethically Speaking

Gratitude and Thankfullness

The Power of Gratitude and Thankfulness in the Lives of Social Workers 

by Kanisha Moye, LMSW

Social workers are unsung heroes of our society, tirelessly dedicating their lives to improving the well-being of individuals and communities facing a multitude of challenges. In the face of adversity, social workers often find themselves at the front line, providing essential support to those in need. While their jobs can be emotionally and physically demanding, cultivating gratitude and thankfulness can have a profound impact on their well-being and effectiveness in their crucial roles.

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From the Executive Director’s Desk

Cassie E. Brown MSW, LCSW
Chapter Executive Director

Fall hit all at once this year. It was summer and then it wasn’t last week when we were pelted with icy rain. Changing seasons can be difficult for so many people, ourselves as well as our clients. There is more darkness straining people’s moods and sleep patterns. Time change is notoriously difficult to adjust to. The fortunate are driven inside by the cold that becomes so dangerous for people who are unhoused. Travel can become unpleasant or even treacherous.

 

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Diversity and Awareness Observances for October 

Click on the link for more information about ways to celebrate or observe the month, day, or week!

Native American Heritage Month

National Adoption Month (World Adoption Day, November 9) 

Veterans Day (November 11)

Trans Day of Remembrance (November 20)—a list of those who have died of trans-motivated violence in 2022 is available here.

Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week (November 12-20) 

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

2024 virtual conference – presenters needed

Advocacy Series in November

NASW-MO seeking nominees for the state committee for social workers— contact cassie for more details! 

seeking presenters

seeking articles!

your inspiration for the month 

the inspiration of the month is inspired by native american heritage month. it’s a 14-minute video on pbs.org called what does electric pow wow sound like? this mini-documentary goes from canadian dj collective a tribe called red combining native american drum circle sounds with electronic music to create electric pow wow to minnesota and the award-winning iron boy drum circle. it’s an amazing look at modern indigenous cultures, music, and even politics. (and the music is incredible.) enjoy!