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Recognizing that social work is now a global profession, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Foundation initiated the Social Workers Across Nations (SWAN) program to provide a mechanism for social workers in the United States to offer their expertise and skills to the international community and to develop supportive and collaborative linkages with social workers around the world. Since its inception in 2008, SWAN has facilitated and funded a variety of initiatives including capacity building projects, outreach to allied international organizations, professional exchanges, and humanitarian efforts in many countries.
In her role as Chief Executive Officer of NASW and President of
NASW Foundation, Dr. Clark has long maintained that social work is the
"profession of hope," and that hope is a critical element of social work
practice. She believes that social workers are the "holders of hope" for
individuals, families, communities, and nations, and that, even in the face of
the direst situations such as war, famine, and violence, social workers remain
hopeful. Building on that belief, she created SWAN with the intention of
strengthening the capacity of social workers around the world in their efforts
to address poverty, inadequate health and mental health care, violence, and
racial, ethnic and gender disparities.
Social workers have the education, training, and culturally responsive skills to help those who are vulnerable, at-risk, and in crisis. They recognize the inherent worth and dignity of all people regardless of geographic boundary, and they play an important role in peace efforts and social justice.
This important work will be furthered through contributions to the SWAN program. Contributions in honor of Dr. Clark's years of service to the profession of hope are most welcome.
Click here to view all SWAN donations in honor of Betsy Clark.
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