March is National Social Work Month! New Hope of Indiana has an amazing behavioral services program that utilizes the skills of many different social workers. This year’s national theme was “Compassion + Action”. New Hope social workers exemplify Compassion in Action when helping individuals served and by offering support and guidance to associates and families.

This year, New Hope held a social media campaign highlighting four different MSWs. They each answered the question “What does Compassion + Action mean to you?” Here are their answers:

• Amy Flint, MSW: “It means that we are empathetic, able to guide DSPs and provide understanding to the individuals wants and needs”
• Elaine Kruger, MSW: “It means that we talk to our clients, find out what they want and help the team implement”.
• Terri Gee, MSW: “It means advocacy. For the lives of our clients and for our team members. We make sure the needs are being met by following strict ethical standards. We inspire others to do their best”.
• Banks Faleke, MSW: “Compassion simply means showing empathy without being judgmental and sharing in the feelings of others who may be experiencing distress or hardship. Taking action requires understanding the needs with both proactive and practical ways to address the needs which must be client centered”.

New Hope’s behavior team listened to the desires of individuals served and started a social group. New Hope individuals meet and participate in activities in the community, like bowling. This offers a supportive environment to have fun with other people that they may not have typically see on a day-to-day basis.

We are so thankful for our Social Workers at New Hope and grateful to celebrate them this past month!