Since 1999, Williamson s team of bachelor and master s level students has served 300 families through in-home and center services, improving the quality of life for those who otherwise fall through the cracks. Kathy Williamson, MSW ' 96 Barry University Child Welfare, Adoptions and Foster Care, and Specialty Children s Services Public child welfare through state and county departments of social or family services and child welfare services provided by private organizations, including residential centers, through government contracts are core social work careers. Community Development, Economic Development, and Community Organizing Social workers coordinate social services for redevelopment companies, serve as technical advisors and program coordinators for micro-enterprise projects, work with labor and grassroots organizing groups and unions, direct housing services, staff job training programs, develop projects and serve as community liaisons with public economic develop departments, work in university extension programs, and community reinvestment. Disabilities Generally social workers serve as program and executive directors, policy specialists, and fund raisers of organizations and departments providing respite, employment, job training, housing, life skills training and other services for individuals and families living with developmental, physical, and mental disabilities. They also serve as rehabilitation social workers, medical social workers, or case managers working directly with these populations.
Some states require school social workers in each public school district.
Charter schools and other private schools may also have social workers on staff, as do some day care centers and schools for children with special needs. School social workers are part of a team with teachers and school administrators and serve as a liaison between the school and home. In some schools, social workers primarily serve students with special needs. In others, they facilitate groups, and run violence prevention programs. Social workers are also employed in higher education in student services, fund raising, and alumni relations.