Celebrating Social Work Month 2024

Dear OCEA member,

As Social Work Month 2024 comes to a close, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for the invaluable work you do for the residents of Orange County. Social Work is a calling—not just a profession—and those who do this work inspire so us all with their empathy, compassion, fortitude, and action.

In Washington, D.C. earlier this month, The National Association of Social Workers themed 2024 the year of “Empowering Social Workers” by focusing on ways Americans can support the social work profession and address mental health issues in our nation. The NASW urged us to take action by underscoring the need for mental health services providers through conversations with neighbors, and ultimately lobbying lawmakers to support legislation that improves social work budgets, mental health assistance, and resources.

At your union, OCEA’s labor relations team continues to work in tandem with workplace stewards and Labor Management Committee participants to effect change in the workplace. Additionally, members of OCEA’s Legislative Committee and staff were in Sacramento earlier this month to speak with lawmakers and advocate for bills that support working people—including a bill that would require the County to engage the assistance of unions to fill job vacancies across County agencies. This would be a critical step in providing you and your co-workers necessary staffing so you can continue to do your work with the focus and compassion required of social work. 

This month the Orange County Board of Supervisors invited Social Workers to a board meeting to commemorate the month and speak about your contributions to our societal fabric. In the workplace, OCEA’s organizing team is visiting more than 20 sites where social workers are located to leave a token of our appreciation (pictured at top: OCEA Organizer Carlos Rosales and OCEA member Janet Carrete). If you have not received an OCEA keychain by Friday, April 5, and would like one, please email OCEA Staff Specialist Jared Anderson at janderson@ocea.org.

Social workers effect change in our communities. Active union members affect change in the workplace. If you are interested in getting involved, please click here.

In Solidarity, 

OCEA

Publication Date: March 28, 2024