I learned growing up you don’t brag on yourself, your income, your house, or your truck. So, please know it’s difficult for me to “make a pitch” to you for this organization. But my family was never slow to share the merits of those we cared about. Our people.
And NASW-MO is people. I cannot express how energized and uplifted I am by you, NASW-MO members, as your Executive Director. The calls and emails I receive regularly show me a social work community that cares about Missouri and Missourians, that understand the complexity of our policy climate and how policy will impact our profession. I am proud to be a part of an organization that pursues justice, enhances professionalism, and supports social workers.
NASW-MO is focused on growing our membership this March. There is power in numbers when we advocate. When I speak to legislators at the Capitol, I am asked about our membership activity: how many people do you represent?
The only thing I see that could improve our membership is more of us. And I would love for you to be an ambassador for that growth. How?
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In case you need a reason here in the Show-Me State, here are five…
- Representation in Jefferson City. This is irreplaceable. NASW-MO represents the interests of the social work profession and what social workers care about at the state Capitol. Our lobbying team and Executive Director work for social work throughout the legislative session, tracking legislation, testifying, and representing your interests. We also train you for advocacy!
- Continuing Education. NASW-MO provides amazing continuing education all year, some for free, and an incredible conference. And the incredible selection of trainings through InReach are discounted for NASW-MO members.
- Direction and Information. NASW-MO attends the quarterly meetings of the State Committee for Social Workers to keep up to date with the requirements of social work in Missouri. We also provide a voice for our members there. We also direct our members when they have questions to find answers or to connect with who can help them.
- Discounted Liability Insurance. NASW members have access to discounts on liability insurance through NASW Assurance Services. Their Board of Directors is also comprised of social workers and insurance experts, keeping social work interests and needs in mind. (This insurer is available for nonmembers as well, but members receive a discount!)
- Access to Online Journals. Once you graduate, you still need research journals, but these are expensive and difficult to access outside of academia. Unless you’re an NASW member! Your membership gives you access to research databases.