TITLE: Recognizing March 2015 as Professional Social Work Month in Texas.

SUMMARY: Recognizing March 2015 as Professional Social Work Month in Texas.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Social workers contribute immeasurably to the well-being of Texas residents, and these dedicated men and women are being honored during March 2015 with the observance of Professional Social Work Month; and WHEREAS, For more than a century, social workers have helped individuals overcome life's most difficult challenges by providing them with the knowledge, skills, and assistance necessary to build a brighter future; and WHEREAS, Deeply committed to the ideals of shared prosperity and equal opportunity for all, early social workers in the United States fought for progressive reform and played an essential role in the establishment of Social Security, Medicare, and other core programs that protect all U.S. citizens; and WHEREAS, Through their determined advocacy, social workers have also helped bring about greater protections for children and improved treatment for people suffering from physical disabilities and mental illness; moreover, members of the profession reach out to the elderly, veterans, and other underserved groups, and they are frequently called on to assist those suffering from poverty, discrimination, and abuse; and WHEREAS, According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, social work is one of the fastest-growing careers in the nation, with more than 650,000 Americans holding degrees in the field; these skilled professionals undergo extensive training and are employed in schools, hospitals, prisons, government and private agencies, and numerous other settings; and WHEREAS, A nation's character is defined by its treatment of its most vulnerable citizens, and social workers in the Lone Star State and beyond are indeed deserving of respect and appreciation for their tireless efforts to improve the lives of individuals and families in need; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 84th Texas Legislature hereby recognize March 2015 as Professional Social Work Month and commend the members of this vital profession for their hard work and many accomplishments; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the Texas chapter of the National Association of Social Workers as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Naishtat Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 304 was adopted by the House on February 19, 2015, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House