What March 8th Means To Me.
originally published @allaboutestates.ca
“I am woman, hear me roar
In numbers too big to ignore
And I know too much to go back an’ pretend
‘Cause I’ve heard it all before”
– Helen Reddy 1971
As the ‘regular’ Monday blogger, I am very pleased to have an opportunity to connect with you today.
Today is a special day for a few reasons.
It is International Women’s Day- a day to recognize all of the wonderful women in (y)our lives; starting with our mothers and mother in laws, our sisters, aunts, grandmothers, daughters, granddaughters, our girlfriends and our co workers. A big thank you to my female clients and colleagues who continue to teach me humility, respect, care and hope. This year was difficult for everyone however women may have been impacted more as we carry the brunt of caregiving responsibilities.
As well, Social Work Awareness week has just concluded and the theme for this year was #YouAreNotAlone.
Social workers often get a back rap. The name alone infers for many a negative image- if I need a social worker, things must be really bad! This is part of the reason for these awareness campaigns. For years I have used the term ‘Care Manager’ to describe what we do at Elder Caring. However most on our team are registered social workers and this is a title I have proudly worn since 1980.
Just a few words about social work. Social workers are regulated by provincial law and in Ontario, the Social Work and Social Service Work Act, 1998 is overseen by the Ministry of Community and Social Services. Only Registered Social Workers (RSW) who are members in good standing of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers can call themselves a ‘Social Worker’ and have RSW after their name.
Services provided by a registered social worker are often covered by extended health care plans which means we can provide a receipt for our services which may be reimbursed by your carrier. Registered Social Workers are also HST exempt.
The other reason today is special is because it is my dearest girlfriend’s birthday. While we have not lived in the same city for over 30 years, we have remained close. It is a particularly difficult birthday for her as her dad died a few weeks. Happy Birthday Sue.
The final great thing about today is that I will be participating in the National STEP Symposium exploring ways to better support vulnerable clients and prevent elder abuse.
And of course, there are now only twelve days (or sleeps) until spring!
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