Competency 6: Engage with Individuals, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Social workers understand that engagement is an ongoing component of the dynamic and interactive process of social work practice with and on behalf of individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.
Social workers value the importance of human relationships. Social workers understand theories of human behavior and person-in-environment and critically evaluate and apply this knowledge to facilitate engagement with clients and constituencies, including individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers are self-reflective and understand how bias, power, and privilege as well as their personal values and personal experiences may affect their ability to engage effectively with diverse clients and constituencies. Social workers use the principles of inter-professional collaboration to facilitate engagement with clients, constituencies, and other professionals as appropriate
Social workers:
a. apply knowledge of human behavior and person-in-environment, as well as inter-professional conceptual frameworks, to engage with clients and constituencies; and
b. use empathy, reflection, and interpersonal skills to engage in culturally responsive practice with clients and constituencies.
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Engaging with diverse populations, especially troubled young adults, involves integrating frameworks like the person-in-environment theory into my practice. This theory emphasizes the interconnectedness between individuals and their environments, highlighting the importance of considering various factors such as social, cultural, economic, and environmental contexts when working with individuals.
As a future social worker, I recognize the influence of biases and power dynamics on interactions with clients. Being mindful of these factors allows me to approach scenarios with sensitivity and empathy, being sure that I provide support that is tailored to the unique needs and circumstances of each individual.
In terms of collaboration, I prioritize working closely with others in the field, and by forming partnerships, I can develop comprehensive and holistic interventions that address the needs of troubled young adults and other populations I interact with. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of community and support, which is key for individuals facing challenges.
My goal is to promote the well-being and empowerment of troubled young adults by providing them with the tools, resources, and support they need to navigate life’s challenges and achieve their full potential. This commitment to comprehensive and client-centered practice ensures that I am properly advocating for and serving the individuals and communities I work with.
Evidences:
Group Facilitation Video, Social Marketing Plan, and Case Notes
Social Work Practice with Families and Groups SOCW-321-A
Through our class project, “Community and Care,” I co-designed a psychoeducational group aimed at deepening participants’ understanding of community and promoting compassionate engagement among college students. Crafting a social marketing plan, I outlined strategies to recruit participants, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and the benefits of collective support. Engaging with various platforms and channels, such as social media and campus events, I aimed to reach a diverse audience and inspire active participation in our group.
Completing weekly case notes, I reflected on how our group activities and discussions applied to my engagement with communities, groups, individuals, families, and organizations. By facilitating meaningful interactions and fostering a sense of belonging, I demonstrated my ability to connect with diverse populations and mobilize collective action. As a future social worker, these experiences equip me with the skills to effectively engage with communities, advocate for social change, and empower individuals and groups to create positive impacts within their environments. Collaborating with a partner allowed for a exchange of ideas and enhanced our group facilitation abilities, enabling us to create a more enriching experience for participants.
Photo of Social Activity for Mentees
Practicum
I participate in Southern Adventist University’s mentorship program. As a mentor, it is my responsibility to guide students from a particular department on campus as they begin their first year of college coursework. We refer to these students as mentees.
This activity involved organizing a social event for my mentees, where I cooked them a meal, baked cupcakes, and engaged in conversations about their well-being and academic progress. The event aimed to foster a sense of community, support personal and academic development, and promote open communication between mentor and mentees.
By organizing the event, I gained practical experience in engaging with individuals and groups, fostering community, supporting personal and academic development, and promoting communication and relationship building. Through conversations with my mentees, I deepened my understanding of their needs and challenges, enhanced my communication skills, and demonstrated empathy and support.
I chose this assignment as evidence because it exemplifies my approach to building relationships and fostering a supportive community within the mentorship group. By organizing a social event focused on the well-being and development of my mentees, I demonstrated my commitment to engaging with them on a personal and meaningful level. individuals within a community context.
Presentation on Networking as a College Student
Presented at Sophomore Success Luncheon
I was invited to deliver a presentation on networking as an upperclassman during a cornerstone luncheon, targeting fellow college students. The presentation focused on sharing knowledge about the significance of building connections, effective communication strategies, and leveraging campus resources for networking opportunities within the college community.
Through effective communication and sharing valuable insights, I enhance my skills in fostering meaningful interactions and connections among students. This experience reinforced the values of collaboration, empathy, and respect, fostering a sense of community engagement.
Being invited to present at the cornerstone luncheon provided an opportunity to engage with a specific group of college students and offer guidance on networking. By sharing insights and facilitating discussions, I demonstrated my ability to engage with individuals from similar academic backgrounds and support their personal and academic development.
Competency Six
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