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FEATURE SOCIAL JUSTICE WORKS IN THE NEWS
From Practicums to Practice: COVID-19: Opportunity for Honouring Our Own:
The Student’s Perspective a New “Normal” ACSW 2019 Awards
ADVOCATE
VOLUME 45 | ISSUE 2 SUMMER 2020
THE
www.acsw.ab.ca ALBERTA COLLEGE OF
SOCIAL WORKERS
SOCIAL
WORK WEEK
PART ONE
Fort McMurray
SPECIAL
SERIES
COVID-19 AND
SOCIAL WORKERS
Social workers are Information is evolving
trusted professionals rapidly – check our ACSW COVID-19 CASW FACEBOOK
that contribute to the website & these online WEBPAGE SOCIAL WORK
health and welfare resources often! acsw.ab.ca/site/covid-19 PEER-TO-PEER
of Alberta’s most Through the COVID-19 SUPPORT GROUP
vulnerable communities, pandemic, the ACSW is Facebook.com –
families, and individuals. committed to providing Canadian Association of
Social workers should you with up-to-date Social Workers, Groups
continue to follow information to support
government directives. your practice and offer
Social workers will guidance on important
be at the front of the topics.
recovery efforts of the CASW COVID-19 CASW WEBINARS
pandemic response. RESOURCE PAGE are now accessible on
www.casw-acts.ca/en, demand and free of
under resources charge
COVID-19 Pandemic
THE PURSUIT OF SOCIAL JUSTICE is one of the
founding principles of our profession. During the
COVID-19 pandemic and the economic crisis, it
is incumbent upon us to be the voice for the most
vulnerable. As social workers, we strive towards
social fairness, reducing barriers and expanding
choice. We stand strong, united to use our power RSWs Dr. Hinshaw
and influence, to serve our clients responsibly and
ACSW would like to send a heartfelt
to promote social justice during this time.
thank you to Alberta’s Chief Medical
We encourage you to use the tools in your toolbox. Officer of Health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw.
Assess what are essential, urgent and emergency
Dr. Hinshaw’s dedication and compassion
needs. Use your professional judgement, your
during the COVID-19 pandemic have
Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics to guide
been a comfort to Albertans, including
you. Seek supervision.
many social workers.
As a profession, we use our unique knowledge,
Thank you, Dr. Hinshaw!
skills and competencies to get us through the
COVID-19 pandemic. We are in this together!
THE ADVOCATE
Volume 45, Issue 2, Summer 2020
ADVOCATE
Published by:
THE The Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW)
550 10707 100 AVE NW, Edmonton AB T5J 3M1
Ph: 780-421-1167/Toll-free (in AB): 1-800-661-3089
Fax: 780-421-1168/Toll-free fax: 1-866-874-8931
acsw@acsw.ab.ca — acsw.ab.ca
Registrar (Acting)
Associate Registrar:
COVER STORY: Suzanne MacKinnon, MSW, RCSW
SOCIAL WORK WEEK associateregistrar@acsw.ab.ca
SPECIAL SERIES Executive Director (Acting)
Associate Director - Professional Practice & Advocacy:
24 The Power of Jody-Lee Farrah, MSW, RSW
assocdirector@acsw.ab.ca
Connection
Managers, Regulatory Practice/Complaints Directors:
Bruce Llewellyn, MSW, RSW
Sheryl Pearson, MSW, RSW, LLB
acswregulatory@acsw.ab.ca
Membership Activities - Team Lead:
Charity Lui, MSW, RSW
Social Workers - Membership Activities:
Heather Johnson, SW Dip, RSW
Andre Tinio, BSW, RSW
Finance & Administration Officer:
Kim Hyggen, CPA, CGA
Finance & Administration Support:
Audrey Kent, CPA, CMA
Registration Coordinator:
Brenda Gross
Executive Assistant / Office Manager:
Noreen Majek
Promotions & Events Associate:
IN THE NEWS FEATURE STORY Crystal King
12 Honouring Our Own: 18 Valuing Our Profession: Administrative Support Professionals:
Tracy Houben Carlena Johnson Jennifer Vasquez Toni Harrison
ACSW 2019 Awards Lynn Labrecque King Tami Carlin Jessica Atamanenko Kathleen Lidbetter Emily Rypstra (Associate)
Online Services Analyst:
Laurie Nelson
FEATURES THE BIG PICTURE IT Support Analyst:
Scott MacPhee
11 Transforming the Field 9 A Message from the President ACSW Council:
Education Landscape President: Ajay Pandhi, MSW, RSW
INDIGENOUS VOICES Vice President: Maxine Salopree, BSW, RSW
18 Valuing Our Profession: Treasurer: Daryl Pamplin, BSW, RSW
10 Returning to the Teachings Secretary: Dayirai Kapfunde, MSW, RSW
Lynn Labrecque King
Members at Large:
24 The Power of Connection ETHICS IN ACTION Margaret Brown, MSW, RSW Wilda Listener, MSW, RSW
14 Confidentiality and Consent to Bobbi Michaud, MSW, RSW Baiju Vareed, MSW, RSW
28 Social Justice Within the Workplace Katie Richardson, MSW, RSW Siu Ming Kwok, MSW, RSW
Share Information Indigenous Social Work Committee Representative:
and What You Can Do to Contribute
Derek Chewka, MSW, RSW
30 Métis Housing: Building Resilient SOCIAL JUSTICE WORKS Public Members:
Families While Helping House 16 COVID-19: Opportunity for a Bukola Oladunni Salami Trevor Liskowich
Laura Delfs Charmaine Coutinho
Our People New “Normal”
Editorial Board:
Samuel Mammen, MSW, RSW & Cardinal Fomradas, MSW, RSW (Co-Chairs)
32 Point of Conception RESEARCH & LEARNING IN Darnel Forro, MSW, RSW Tasha Novick, MSW, RSW
ALBERTA’S COMMUNITIES Sherri Tanchak, MSW, RSW Andrea Newberry-Koroluk, PhD, RSW
Islam Deyab, BSW, RSW Bukola Oladunni Salami, Public Member
AROUND OUR PROVINCE 22 “It’s Social Work’s Time to Shine”
Editorial services provided by Bird Communications
4 Around Our Province
Advertising space is available. To place an ad, contact
DIPLOMA DIALOGS memberactivitiesadmin@acsw.ab.ca. The ACSW reserves the right to reject
IN THE NEWS 23 Uncertainty Brings Growth to our any submissions and advertising.
6 Welcome to New RSWs & RCSWs Social Work Students Fall 2020 Issue Ad Deadline: July 15, 2020
Canadian subscriptions are $26/year
12 Honouring Our Own: (outside Canada: $26 US/year). Please immediately update
FOR YOUR INFORMATION your member profile with any address changes.
ACSW 2019 Awards ISSN 0847 - 2890 PM NO. 40050109
34 The Advocate Editorial Policy
RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO
550 10707 100 AVE NW, EDMONTON AB T5J 3M1
35 For Your Information
The opinions and interpretations expressed in this publication do not
necessarily reflect those of the Alberta College of Social Workers
(ACSW), its editorial board, or contractors. The aforementioned make
no guarantee or warranty, either expressed or implied, about the
accuracy or links contained in the Advocate, and are not liable for any
direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages that could arise.
All material ©2020 by the ACSW or by author. ACSW retains
copyright when no author is listed. Reprint or copying (including
digital or online reproduction in any form) of any Advocate material
requires written consent of the ACSW.
Printing on Titan Dull text. 10% post consumer waste. Titan participates in a certified forest program. THE ADVOCATE 3
AROUND OUR PROVINCE
BY CHARITY LUI, MSW, RSW
Maxine Salopree and Jody-Lee Farrah with The Legislature lights up magenta Edmonton film night
members of the Legislature
U of A Hospital thanks social workers Gerontology group wine & cheese Edmonton pub night
Celebratory cake at ACSW 400 years of experience in Calgary Lethbridge pub night
Social Work aware of public policy and whether it
creates or inhibits social justice.”
and by lighting the High Level Bridge
in magenta.
Week 2020 As we strive towards educating the In partnership with the National
As a profession, we are fortunate to public on the diversity and impact Film Board, the Edmonton Area
have social workers represented in of our profession, we chose again Coordinators hosted their annual film
our legislature. MLA Lori Sigurdson, this year to feature social workers night on March 2nd at the Citadel
MSW, RSW, presented a member in a social media campaign. We Theatre. The evening included a
statement in the legislature during were delighted to have collaborated screening of six short films that
social work week. This is some of with the Humans Experience, as touched on various areas of diversity
what she had to share. they interviewed and photographed including: indigeneity, sexual
social workers from northern and and gender diversity, racism and
“I am grateful to say that I have been
rural Alberta. Over the next few disability. ACSW President Ajay
a social worker for over 30 years.
issues, we will share these impactful Pandhi, MSW, RSW, opened the
Social workers have a unique vantage
stories. And it is not too late to share evening with words to encourage and
point. They are often on the front
our March posts on your Facebook challenge those in attendance.
lines serving Albertans experiencing
various challenges in living. Social account. The University of Alberta Hospital and
workers understand the importance Stollery Children’s Hospital hosted an
Activities Across Alberta
of government decisions regarding appreciation luncheon for their social
funding, as they directly impact their Edmonton workers. The group enjoyed some
work and the lives of the people they The City of Edmonton recognized downtime together and a beautiful
serve. Thus, social workers are keenly Social Work Week in a proclamation performance by youthful Cree singer
4 SUMMER 2020
Lethbridge PD Committee Fort McMurray brunch
The next issue of the Advocate
will include a feature article
related to COVID-19 and the role
of social workers.
Fort McMurray student presentation Camrose drumming circle We want to highlight the impact
our profession is making during
this crisis. Consider sharing some
of your experiences.
For details, contact
Charity Lui at
memberactivitieslead@acsw.ab.ca.
Portage College, Cold Lake Artwork from Lac La Biche
Noah Simon and his grandmother, Calgary
Carol Powder. Charity Lui, MSW, Mayor Nenshi recognised Social
RSW, brought greetings on behalf of Work Week with a letter of
Retirement
ACSW. recognition. Lynn Labreque King, MSW,
The ACSW Gerontology Network RSW, Executive Director
The Calgary Area Coordinators
North interest group hosted a wine and and Registrar, has
hosted an event focused on
cheese reception at the ACSW office. retired from
intergenerational social work. New
Participants had the opportunity to her position
social workers, emerging social
network and celebrate our profession. at ACSW.
workers, experienced social workers
The staff
Social Action/Social Justice Edmonton and those close to retirement
celebrated
organized a pub night. It was a fun gathered to share their thoughts and
the many
and informal evening where social wisdom around the profession. It
contributions
workers and social work students was an opportunity to bring together she has made to
met to celebrate the profession, share multiple generations. As a fun end our organization and
good food and drinks. to the evening, those in attendance to the profession of social
The ACSW staff enjoyed cake at the lined up from those with the most work. She will be missed!
office for Social Work Week. We hope experience to those just starting Read the feature article on
you had the opportunity to celebrate their career. When adding up the page 18 to be inspired by her
yourself and acknowledge the years of experience of each social leadership and career.
phenomenal work that you do within worker, there were nearly 400 years
the profession. of experience!
THE ADVOCATE 5
AROUND OUR PROVINCE
Cake in Cold Lake Lac La Biche January social Slave Lake celebration
Lethbridge later in the week. It was a fun and about our profession, leave notes of
Social workers were invited to a pub creative event with much laughter, encouragement and enjoy cake and a
night in Lethbridge. It was an evening cheer and bubbles! warm cup of hot chocolate.
to enjoy good company and celebrate Later in the week, the Area Lac La Biche
together. The Area Coordinators also Coordinators hosted a restorative yoga
Pizza lunch and some time to paint!
organized a fun-filled night at a local session. Participants were able to relax
The Area Coordinator in Lac La Biche
comedy club. and exercise their bodies and minds.
invited social workers and social work
Lethbridge Professional Development The Area Coordinators also took students to take time out and get
Partnership hosted their annual the opportunity during Social creative.
professional development opportunity Work Week to engage with local
Back in January, the Area
for local social workers. This year’s social work students. It’s a great
Coordinators in Cold Lake and Lac
focus was on vicarious trauma. opportunity a meet up-and-coming
La Biche organized opportunities
Barb Higgins, past television news social workers, to discuss their roles
for social workers and social work
journalist, spoke about how vicarious as Area Coordinators and provide an
students to spent time together after
trauma has affected her personally, introduction to the ACSW.
the holidays. In Cold Lake, it was an
and shared her healing journey that
Jasper evening of fun and games, while in
included somatic, reiki and other
Lac La Biche, social workers made
therapeutic models. Jasper Area Coordinators hosted a
calming jars.
coffee and discussion event. It was
Working with trauma can erode
great to connect with local social Slave Lake
our coping mechanisms and
workers over warm drinks.
increase workplace conflicts. The Area Coordinators in Slave
Kathleen Gorman, MSW, RSW, Camrose & Lloydminster Lake kept busy during Social Work
Trauma Counsellor with Aboriginal Week. Local social workers were
The “Be Good to You” event was
Counselling Services, has worked in acknowledged and gifted with
organized by the Camrose and
the fields of trauma, mental health/ journals, chocolate and candles.
Lloydminster Area Coordinators. It
addictions, and domestic and sexual A beautiful photo booth was put
included a drumming circle, where
violence. She provided tools for how together for some stunning photos.
participants used fun rhythms and
to manage trauma exposure while And of course, there was cake!
worked together to drum away
working in challenging environments.
their stress. This was followed by a
Fort McMurray gentle yoga time. It was a time to be
energized and empowered.
The local Area Coordinators hosted
their annual brunch to kick off Cold Lake
Social Work Week. This is always
The Area Coordinators for Cold Lake
a time filled with good food,
hosted a booth at Portage College CHARITY LUI is the Membership Activities
discussion and laughter. Team Lead. You can contact her at
over Social Work Week. Students and MemberActivitiesLead@acsw.ab.ca
A bubble art workshop was hosted faculty were invited to learn more regarding submissions for the Advocate.
6 SUMMER 2020
We Celebrate Pride and Diversity ACSW ELECTION
RESULTS
Did you know that Pride month originated from the Stonewall riots of
We wish to thank all members who
1969? This New York City uprising lasted six days and was the result
participated in the ACSW election
of years of unjust police persecution of patrons of the Stonewall Inn, by voting or by running for a seat
a gay bar, due to their gender and sexuality. One year later, the first on the ACSW Council. The election
Pride march occurred in commemoration of the riots. Brenda Howard, results are:
L. Craig Schoonmaker, and Robert A. Martin are popularized the word
Treasurer:
“Pride”, and Gilbert Baker designed the rainbow flag in 1978 — now Daryl Pamplin, BSW, RSW
synonymous with the LGBTQ2S+ community. We now see Pride events
Secretary:
across the world, typically in June, celebrations of diversity with familiar
Dayirai Kapfunde, MSW, RSW
rainbow colours. We all have a role to play in the continued fight for the
inclusion, safety, and rights of all who are sexually and gender-diverse. Council Members:
Baiju Vareed, MSW, RSW
The ACSW supports the Sexual and Gender Diversity member interest Katie Richardson, MSW, RSW
group. To learn more or get involved, contact staff lead Heather Siu Ming Kwok, MSW, RSW
Johnson at memberactivitiessouth@acsw.ab.ca.
ACSW
CONFERENCE
Save the Date! March 25-27, 2021.
CASW Content Winner We are excited to announce that
the ACSW 2021 conference will be
Everett Randall Hamilton, MSW, RSW, of Valleyview, AB entered in Calgary at the BMO Centre on
CASW’s National Social Work Month contest. Here’s his winning Stampede Park.
submission on how he’s been impacted by those he serves:
“Having worked in major metropolitan areas including Toronto and
Ottawa, and being a strong advocate of quality services for everyone
who needs them, I decided two years ago to make a drastic change
in my life, both personal and professional, with a move to remote Compassionate
Northern Alberta. As a mental health therapist working primarily with
children and adolescents and coming to a historically under-serviced Heart
community, I was welcomed with open arms. My expectations were
The AHS Provincial and Calgary Zone
much different from reality, and the issues I saw, although different in
Social Work Practice Councils and
some ways, very much mimicked what I saw in the larger centres. The
the U of C Faculty of Social Work
acuteness was much higher due to lack of resources, and the trauma
sponsored the first of two digital
experienced by Indigenous people was palpable but this, after all, was
story creations. ‘A Compassionate
why I chose to relocate. The diversity is much greater than one might
Heart’ features Lee Ann’s experience
expect in a small Northern setting, allowing me the opportunity to not
with her critically ill child. This
only work with Indigenous clients but with new immigrants, members
initiative highlights the importance
of the LGBTQ2S+ communities, children and many others. Having
of psychosocial supports and
lived in Toronto for many years, I always felt that diversity was a prize
exceptional medical interventions for
to be cherished and I am very happy to report that diversity is alive and
families in very difficult situations.
well in small and remote communities all over Canada.”
See the story on YouTube at
Congratulations, Randy, on your inspirational submission.
AHSChannel by searching for ‘A
Compassionate Heart.’
THE ADVOCATE 7
IN THE NEWS
Welcome to New RSWs & RCSWs
TOTAL MEMBERSHIP AS OF APRIL 9, 2020 8,714
Satinay Abzakh Haley Marie Dykstra Olamide Atilola Ishola Kit Sum O’Reilly Stella Sylva
Wendy Adams Mathewos Lendido Noor Jomaa Roselyn Oyugi Parker Tatoulis
Ersumo
Evelyn Asana Alla-ah Emil Joseph Leanne Jessica Perrin Glory Mundi Tekeh
Derek Thomas
Eyinmwan Ereya Gagandeep Kaur Miranda Prosser Aksel William Tigley
Falkowsky
Amorighoye
Theresa Kawalilak Michelle Lee Racicot Adriene Claire
Fawzia Feroze
Crystal Gail Anderson Underhill
Kaitlin Ashley Knupp Tess Raithby
Oluwakemi Ibukun Rebecca Allie Fitton
Sejal Nirav Valand
Anjorin-Ohu David Lee Kaitlyn Dawn
David Fletcher
Rebmann Charisse Cervantes
Anita Claire Archibald Erika Lemon
Rebecca Foshole- Villanueva
Joshua David Marion
Lorna Atieno Luke Abigail Michelle
Richard Eva von Buchenroder
Lidster
Brooklyn Michelle Heather Foureyes-
Brealyn Tate Riley Cassandra Wade
Dawn Bentley Charles Nathalia Liknes
Lindsey Michelle Charmaine Paula
Mary Bihnam Maria Cristina Franco Maggie Annie Lo
Ryland Linda Wallace
Mancebo
Tanya Marie Boorse Robert MacIsaac
Sasha Renee Sage Jaclyn Wiebe
Besrat Gebreselase
Diane Claudette Carly Rae Martin
Mansi Saini Cheyenne Victoria
Bouchard Paris Gerow
Kimberly Nicole Mayer Wolfe
Samantha Valerie
Brandon Jerred Bullen Amanda Lea
Catherine Elizabeth Sanders Erik Michael Yuson
Goodnough
Brooke Louise Buller Nora McCallum
Sophie Sapergia
Roberta Graham
Chelsea Rose Butler Gordance Benson
Janice Tennille
251
Monique Aimee Mendez
Sarah Campbell Schneider
Greenwood
Skye Anne Miller
Rebecca Lynne Maria Sgro
Cavell Leta TOTAL REGISTERED
Cardinal Tanya Rae Moore
Griffiths- Blair Kalista Maria Ruth CLINICAL SOCIAL
Michael Victor WORKERS AS OF
Florence Mudzongo Sherbaniuk APRIL 7, 2020
Clements Tasnim Hasan
Anttu Omer Muhamed Kendra Lee Sieben Michael Sommerfeld
Shauna Rae Cowan Sara-Jayne Hebert
Molly Maguire Mundy Dorsa Sobhani Bonnie Wolski
Tracy Lee Day Chief Kyla Jean Hicks
Bryna Dawn Newborn Ashley Lynn Staton Rebca Zawde
Michell Alejandra Cara Lindsay Jean
Diaz Mancha Horsley Tanya Janette Ng Ashley Marilyn Strain Charlene Frank
Laurel Ann Driedger Brittany Hudak Thi Hong Thu Nguyen Brittiany Rae Sunshine Breanne Noel
8 SUMMER 2020
THE BIG PICTURE
A MESSAGE FROM
THE PRESIDENT
GREETINGS, ALL SOCIAL WORKERS. Summer is finally here and the hot sun is surely a
welcome sight. This promises, however, to be a very different kind of summer than we are
used to, specifically in regards to the ongoing pandemic and the sociopolitical response to
COVID-19. At times like this, we realize the true depth and scope of social work practice –
AJAY HARTENFELD PANDHI we have never been more relevant than we are today. Social workers possess many skills to
is the President of the ACSW
Council. He is also the President help citizens cope and thrive in times such as this. We can provide moral and instrumental
of Pandhi Counselling and support, access to services, advocacy to address client needs, therapy to help clients
Mediation Services and works
as a mental health therapist
deal with anxiety, loneliness and trauma, community organization, and so many other
at Strathcona Community methods of supporting the socio environment.
Hospital. You can contact Ajay at
acswpresident@acsw.ab.ca. We have all heard about the number of deaths attributed to the Spanish Flu but this apt
quotation from Noah Y. Kim of The Atlantic points out the other casualty, which was
community interactions with each other.
“John M. Barry, the author of The Great Influenza, told me that feelings of loneliness
during the pandemic were worsened by fear and mistrust… Individual feelings of loneliness
compounded, in some cases eroding once-strong community bonds. ‘People were actually
afraid to talk to one another,’ said Daniel Tonkel, an influenza survivor, during a 1997
interview for PBS’s American Experience”.1
Keeping in mind the similarities between both these pandemics, we must not, as a
society, repeat a similar situational response again. Let us ensure, by following our
social work ethics, that COVID-19 does not take away our humanity as a citizenry. We
Canadians are a caring society – we look after those who are finding it hard to look after
themselves. Social workers epitomize this caring ethos by portraying to others what
it looks like to be humane, to have humility and grace under fire, have forbearance,
strength and determination, and to be present and truly awake in the moment.
As the fears and real ‘newness’ of the pandemic become normalized, we are going to
start feeling the economic and social impacts, especially in Alberta. We know that
there is going to be a tremendous need for emergency and long-term social services and
supports. As people lose their accustomed way of ‘normal’ life, mental health conditions
and concerns are going to also rise exponentially. With this pressure, burnout is a real
risk. It is thus critical that we make sure to look after ourselves and remain balanced and
healthy. We cannot help others if we don’t help ourselves. This means that we reduce
stressors in our personal lives and take on realistic tasks when it comes to our work.
Social workers, please take time for self-reflection, stay connected to family and
friends, make time for heartfelt discussions whilst continuing to involve yourselves
with social action and social justice work, and please find time to relax and be happy.
Thank you for all the good work you are doing.
Ajay Hartenfeld Pandhi, MSW, RSW
1
Kim, Noah Y. (March 31, 2020). How the 1918 Pandemic Frayed Social Bonds.
The Atlantic. https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2020/03/coronavirus-loneliness-and-mistrust-1918-flu-
pandemic-quarantine/609163/
THE ADVOCATE 9
INDIGENOUS VOICES
Returning to
we are all ready, we will be provided
with the why. Right now, we need to
look after ourselves and our families,
the Teachings
pray and smudge.
I would go on to tell those in my circle
what Leona shared. I told people
BY DEREK CHEWKA, MSW, RSW
outside my circle. I told whoever
would listen. Be calm, do not make
rash decisions and listen to what
Mother Earth is telling us.
BY THE TIME YOU READ THIS, we will a heavy heart, I called Elder Leona
have been many weeks in the tight Makokis who was to facilitate the After a few weeks passed, we began
grip of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our ceremony to tell her the news. When planning next year’s conference in
lives have already changed, and the she answered, she said, “I wondered Calgary – a welcome opportunity to
future is uncertain. Hopefully, as this when you were going to call.” When focus on something positive.
In my professional role, my team and
I planned how to respond to COVID-
19 and shift to working from home
M
AL to stop the spread. I was thrust into a
EN
IC
professional role that I was familiar
YS
TA
Wash your hands. Read.
L
PH
Go outside. Read a book with: responding to crisis. To do so
Role model to a child. while remembering Leona’s teachings
social distancing. Practice deep
Try new foods. breathing. required that I be grounded. I
Stay hydrated. Learn something new. searched for tools to help achieve this
for myself and my team.
Call a loved one and Pray and smudge. Here’s what helped, courtesy of a
tell them how much they Learn 5 words from
mean to you.
your native language. caring co-worker: a medicine wheel
Laugh. Laugh lots.
Be in nature. And (see diagram 1) depicting self-care
Make a list of what
be silent.
you are grateful for. strategies one can practice while
Ask one person
EM
being isolated during the pandemic.
L
how they are
UA
O
OT
NA doing.
IR Need motivation to get up and do
IT
I
L SP these things? Extend an invitation to
someone to participate with you.
Diagram 1. Self-Care During a Pandemic Using the
Teachings of the Medicine Wheel, author unknown.
We are in this together. Reach out to
your neighbors to make sure they are
OK. Each of us is strong. Together, we
issue is released, we will have stopped I told her that the sweat planned for
are stronger.
the spread, and the curve will be on the conference had been cancelled,
a downward trajectory allowing us to she replied, “It’s not cancelled, just
return to whatever our new normal is. postponed. It will happen, just not
right now.”
The Indigenous Social Work
Committee was deeply saddened She went on to share that this is time
when we heard the ACSW Conference for us to remain calm, not to make
had to be cancelled. We felt the loss rash decisions and listen to what
of the months of planning for the Mother Earth is telling us. Many DEREK CHEWKA is Chair of the Indigenous Social
Work Committee and Director of Child and Family
teaching Sweat Lodge ceremony to people want answers as to why this is Services with Yellowhead Tribal Council. He recently
be offered at the conference. With happening. Leona shared that when commenced his PhD studies with Walden University.
10 SUMMER 2020FEATURE
STORY
TRANSFORMING THE FIELD
EDUCATION LANDSCAPE:
An Introduction to
the Partnership
THE ALBERTA COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORKERS is proud
to be a partner in “Transforming the Field Education
Landscape” (TFEL). TFEL is a partnership project that aims TFEL OBJECTIVES
to better prepare the next generation of social workers in
Canada by creating training and mentoring opportunities
for students, developing and mobilizing innovative TO TRANSFORM SOCIAL WORK FIELD
and promising EDUCATION BY BRIDGING THE GAP
field education BETWEEN RESEARCH AND PRACTICE;
practices, and
improving the
integration of
research and TO STRENGTHEN THE RECOGNITION
practice in field OF THE IMPORTANCE OF SOCIAL
education. With WORK PRACTICE RESEARCH;
funding from a
Social Sciences
and Humanities TO TRAIN AND MENTOR STUDENTS
Research Council of Canada’s Partnership Grant, the five- AND POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWS;
year TFEL partnership is headed by Project Director Dr.
Julie Drolet, PhD, RSW, a professor in the University of
Calgary’s Faculty of Social Work based in Edmonton.
TO SUPPORT THE DEVELOPMENT
With a focus on training and mentoring students, TFEL
OF SUSTAINABLE MODELS OF FIELD
is creating many opportunities for BSW, MSW and PhD
EDUCATION; AND
students, along with postdoctoral scholars, to become
involved. We are hiring students to lead a number of
research activities and extending invitations for students
to participate in various training and mentoring initiatives. TO ENGAGE STUDENTS AND
We have already started a repository of information and POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWS
resources on our website, www.tfelproject.com. IN PARTNERED KNOWLEDGE
MOBILIZATION AND THE
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter (@TFELProject) for
MULTI-DIRECTIONAL EXCHANGE
up-to-date information on training events and initiatives,
OF KNOWLEDGE.
job openings, and helpful resources. Or feel free to reach
out to tfelproject@gmail.com for more information. The
ACSW is excited to support this project in “transforming
the field education landscape”!
THE ADVOCATE 11IN THE NEWS
Honouring Our Own:
ACSW 2019 Awards
ACSW is pleased to celebrate the contributions of some of Alberta’s exemplary social workers.
John Hutton Memorial Award Excellence in Social Work Practice
This award recognizes a registered social worker in good This award recognizes social workers who have exhibited
standing who has made an outstanding contribution to the exemplary skills and commitment over time.
profession of social work and the community through social
Marianne Wright, BSW, RSW
action and policy.
Marianne has been a social worker
Richard Shelson, MSW, RCSW for over 40 years, as a clinical
Richard has been a social worker for social worker in private practice,
40 years, supporting individuals and a social work educator and a field
families through counselling and mental placement instructor. Marianne
health therapy, and advancing clinical retired in 2019 after teaching at MacEwan University
social work practice in the mental health since 1980. Throughout her career as an educator,
field. Richard was involved in advocacy for the social work Marianne contributed to the development of courses
profession to be included in the Health Professions Act and that focus on clinical skills and social work methods.
has served as a long-time ACSW volunteer, including serving Marianne is dedicated to giving back to the profession,
on Council in multiple roles, on the Clinical Committee including supporting the ACSW with participation on
since its inception, and by continuing to provide leadership the Private Practice, Complaints and Discipline, and
on the Private Practice Committee. Richard was also the Clinical Committees, as well as being an investigator and
first Canadian member on the Association of Social Work co-chairing the ACSW Conference Committee. Marianne
Boards’ Practice Analysis Taskforce, and a member and chair has demonstrated excellence in social work through
of their exam committee. His support for the profession is her support of students, practitioners and community
unparalleled, and he continues to be an advocate, teacher agencies, fostering dedication to the ongoing growth and
and mentor within Alberta’s social work community. development of the profession.
12 SUMMER 2020Clinical Social Work Practice Tera Dahl Lang Memorial Award for CASW Distinguished Service Award
This award is presented to a registered Wise Indigenous Social Work Practice The Canadian Association of Social
social worker who has exhibited This award is presented to a registered Workers Distinguished Service Award is
exemplary leadership, skills and social worker who has demonstrated given on the occasion of National Social
commitment to the advancement of exemplary leadership and commitment Work Month to a recipient chosen from
clinical social work, as well as continuing to the advancement of Indigenous ways CASW Partner Organizations.
excellence in clinical competence, ethical of knowing and continuing excellence in
practice, and respect for diversity. Indigenous social work practice.
Lynn Labrecque King, MSW, RSW
Val Gervais, MSW, RCSW Sharon Steinhauer, MSW, RSW Lynn is a compassionate social worker
Val is a two- Sharon has been and leader with
spirited Métis a social worker 35 years of service
addiction and for over 30 years, to the social
mental health dedicated to the work profession.
therapist residing development and She is known
in Edmonton. advancement nationally within
For 35 years, Val has been working of Indigenous social work practice the social work profession and was
within addiction and mental health, in Alberta. Sharon’s goal is to live instrumental in bringing ACSW
justice and collaborative concurrent life with relational accountability back to the Canadian Association
disorder shared care, acute care, and work for social and economic of Social Workers to ensure Alberta
community and primary health justice by honouring diverse ways of has a national voice. She has served
care, and community activism and knowing and being, with an emphasis as the President of the Canadian
non-profit sectors. She is passionate on restoring Indigenous families, Council of Social Work Regulators and
about: providing knowledge organizations and communities by contributed leadership in addressing
translation to health care providers addressing the impact of colonization. the interjurisdictional mobility
so they can develop sensitive cultural Sharon has been a teacher and of social workers within Canada.
care for Indigenous clients, families leader at University nuxełhot’įne Throughout her social work career,
and communities; and modelling thaaɁehots’į nistameyimâkanak Blue Lynn has demonstrated tenacity,
Indigenous cultural approaches Quills from 1998 until her retirement creativity and collaborative leadership
to teaching methods and clinical as the social work program lead in her various roles at Alberta
practice. Val is the creator of the in 2019. Sharon’s published work Children’s Services and while serving
“Storyteller’s Blanket”, used to assist includes topics such as understanding as Executive Director and Registrar
with knowledge translation, and is a childhood trauma in Indigenous of the Alberta College of Social
passionate educator, most recently communities, economic security Workers. Through the foundational
with the University of Calgary of Indigenous women, and health values of caring, communication and
Faculty of Social Work. She created of Indigenous children, families collaboration, she has instilled pride
the first LGBTQ2S+ BSW course and communities. Sharon was the and service to the profession while
for the Faculty of Social Work in co-developer of the ACSW Indigenous collaboratively aiming to achieve
Edmonton in 2019, and has been an social work practice framework excellence. She is an exemplary
instructor and practicum supervisor and is a leader, collaborator, and leader, upholding integrity and
for MSW students who are interested wise teacher who has served her treating others with kindness, dignity
in addiction and mental health community and profession with and respect.
clinical care. dignity and honour.
THE ADVOCATE 13ETHICS IN ACTION PART 1 OF 2
Confidentiality and Consent
to Share Information
IS THERE EVER A RIGHT TIME TO DISCLOSE OR
SHARE INFORMATION WITHOUT CONSENT?
BY BRUCE LLEWELLYN, MSW, RSW AND SHERYL PEARSON, MSW, RSW, LLB
CONFIDENTIALITY AND CONSENT including while teaching, providing is permissible when a social worker
are ethical cornerstones of every supervision, conducting research, believes that disclosure is necessary
regulated profession and social work or other professional duties. to protect against a clear and
is no exception. Some might say that (b) Except as noted in section D.7, substantial risk that the client will
social work, more than most, requires a social worker will disclose inflict imminent serious harm on self
a foundation of confidentiality and information about a client to or others. The CASW Code of Ethics
consent, given that trust and respect are others only with documented provides that “the general expectation
fundamental to the social worker–client informed consent from the client. that social workers will keep
relationship. The CASW Code of Ethics information confidential does not
Value 5 of the CASW Code of
state that “Social workers demonstrate apply when disclosure is necessary
Ethics deals with Confidentiality in
respect for the trust and confidence to prevent serious, foreseeable and
Professional Practice in a similar
placed in them by clients, communities imminent harm to a client or others.”
way: Social workers only disclose
and other professionals by protecting Notably, this exception sets a high
confidential information to other
the privacy of client information and bar for disclosure of confidential
parties (including family members)
respecting the client’s right to control information without consent. There
with the informed consent of
when or whether this information will are three factors that must be taken
clients, clients’ legally authorized
be shared with third parties.” into consideration. (See Supreme
representatives or when required by
This article is part one of a two-part law or court order. Court of Canada case Smith v. Jones,
series dealing with confidentiality SCC, 1999).
Thus, there are only two conditions
and consent to share information. (1) Is there a clear risk to an identifiable
that justify the release of confidential
Part one will address the principle of person or group of persons?
information by a social worker:
confidentiality and the exceptions to
1. The client (or their legal (2) Is there a risk of serious bodily
confidentiality. Part two will address
representative) has consented to harm or death?
the principle of consent to share
information. the release of information; or (3) Is the danger imminent?
2. The social worker is required by Clearly, this exception includes the
Confidentiality
law or court order to do so. situation where a client is considered
The ACSW Standards of Practice
The intention of this article is homicidal or suicidal.
2019, section D.5, Confidentiality,
to explain the exceptions to
provides that: Exception 2
confidentiality.
(a) A social worker will safeguard the Disclosure without a client’s consent
confidentiality of the information Exception 1 is permissible when a social worker
obtained in the course of practice, Disclosure of confidential information is required by a Provincial or Federal
14 SUMMER 2020Act or regulation or a court order to know or reasonably suspect the
disclose the information. “existence of a nuisance or a threat SECTION D. 7 OF THE
STANDAR DS OF PR ACTICE
that is or may be injurious or
1) Court orders to disclose/share PR OVIDE THAT:
dangerous to the public health.”
information must always be
According to the Public Health Act, (a) Notwithstanding section D.5,
adhered to.
a “nuisance” is a condition that is a social worker may disclose
2) The Canada Evidence Act (1985): or that might become injurious or information about a client
A subpoena may compel a social dangerous to the public health, or without the client’s consent in
worker to attend court and/or that might hinder in any manner the following situations:
provide testimonial evidence. Law the prevention or suppression i. when a social worker believes
enforcement agencies/lawyers may of disease. This would include that disclosure is necessary
also subpoena file documentation. reporting information about a to protect against a clear and
3) The Child, Youth and Family client who is at risk of having substantial risk that the client
Enhancement Act (2000) states COVID-19 and not engaging in will inflict imminent serious harm
at section 4(1) that any person self-isolation. on self or others;
who has reasonable and probable Each of the above provincial or ii. when a social worker is required
grounds to believe that a child federal acts requires the disclosure of by a Provincial or Federal Act
is in need of intervention shall or regulation or a court order to
information, which is distinct from
forthwith report the matter to the disclose the information;
permitting the disclosure of client
director or a police officer. information. When disclosure of iii. to a collection agency if it is
4) The Communicable Diseases information is required, as indicated necessary in order to collect a fee;
Regulation (Public Health Act, in the cited Acts above, section B.5(c) iv. when the information is
1985) requires the reporting of of the Standards of Practice does not required for a social worker to
communicable disease such as apply. However, when agency policy or defend against a complaint of
sexually transmitted disease legislation permits or allows the sharing unprofessional conduct; and
and pandemic influenza to the of information without consent (for v. when directed to do so by an
director of health. The regulation instance, as provided for in the Health investigator or prosecutor of
provides that when a person is Information Act and Children’s First Act), a complaint under the Health
infected with a communicable section B.5(c) of the ACSW Standards Professions Act.
disease to which the Act applies, of Practice applies (more on this in part
notice shall be given to the two of this article in the next issue.)
the least amount of confidential
medical officer of health.
information necessary to achieve the
Exception 3
5) The Workers’ Compensation Act desired purpose.
Disclosure of confidential information
(2000) provides that all health
about a client is also permissible to a There you have it: exceptions to
professionals, including social
collection agency if it is necessary in the principle of confidentiality in
workers, have a duty to report
order to collect a fee. a nutshell. We will continue to
workplace injury and treatment to
explore the topic of consent to share
the Workers’ Compensation Board Exception 4 information in part two of this series in
within 48 hours.
Disclosure is permissible when the the next Advocate.
And, particularly relevant to our information is required for a social
current circumstances: worker to defend against a complaint
6) Under the Health Professions of unprofessional conduct and/or when
Act (section 1.1(1)), a regulated directed to do so by an investigator or
professional (including RSWs) prosecutor of a complaint under the
must immediately notify the Health Professions Act. SHERYL PEARSON and BRUCE LLEWELLYN
are Managers of Regulatory Practice for the
medical officer of health if they In all instances, social workers disclose Alberta College of Social Workers.
THE ADVOCATE 15SOCIAL JUSTICE WORKS
COVID-19:
to support those who experienced
loss of employment due to COVID-19.
Although there was strong support
Opportunity for a
for this, advocates called upon the
government to go further to meet
the needs of those who did not meet
New “Normal”
the program criteria and would fall
through the cracks. In a letter to
Prime Minister Trudeau, the CASW
urged the federal government to act,
BY JODY-LEE FARRAH, MSW, RSW
saying, “A crisis is not the time to add
administratively onerous programs
to an already overburdened Public
WHEN ALBERTANS STOPPED what and expand choice for all persons…” Service and a population seized by
they were doing and stayed home, (Canadian Association of Social uncertainty and collective anxiety. The
many social workers, steadfast Workers (CASW) Code of Ethics, 2005, fundamentals of a uBIG are already in
alongside other essential service Value 2: Pursuit of Social Justice). place in Canada and the evidence of the
workers, continued to respond to the Throughout the COVID-19 crisis, immediate positive impact of a uBIG
needs of clients and families in their basic needs such as food and water, is undeniable and overwhelming. It is
communities. They knew that now, safe shelter, access to health care time to merge the levers of Canada’s
more than ever, health and social and income security stood at the social safety net into a uBIG that will
support systems would be critical to forefront of what people needed have all people in Canada live and die
meet the needs of an increasing number most, compounded by the mental, with dignity and respect.”1
of people plunged into crisis. By design, psychological, emotional and Without this crisis, we may never
these systems exist for Albertans to fall socioeconomic consequences of the have seen such support for minimum
back on in our most desperate times. pandemic. While government supports income support. The Senate of Canada
When struck by a global pandemic and made what was previously impossible has called upon the Government of
spiraling economic crisis, our systems possible, it still has been difficult to Canada to take this positive opportunity
to aid the most vulnerable became have enough to meet the needs for to evolve the Canadian Emergency
crucial to aid everyone. The crisis is all. Furthermore, social workers are Response Benefit and build upon its
serving as a spotlight, exposing the helping those throughout the pandemic development so all Canadians may have
gap-filled systems for what they really while managing their own experience. access to a guaranteed minimum basic
are…a threadbare fabric of our society. They also turn to the future and income, preventing people from falling
advocate for the needed supports for through the cracks, and ensuring
Pursuit of Social Justice
the recovery post-pandemic. greater social and economic equity.2
Social workers value social justice
and uphold the rights of people to Universal Basic Income Guarantee Food Security
have equal access to resources to meet Social policy advocates and social In the early weeks of the pandemic,
basic human needs. “Social workers workers, including the CASW, have there was wide-spread concern about
believe in the obligation of people, long advocated for basic income reform whether there would be enough food
individually and collectively, to provide in Canada through a Universal Basic supply across Canada. There was a
resources, services and opportunities Income Guarantee (uBIG). To meet sense of panic as hoarding of essential
for the overall benefit of humanity the urgent income security needs of items such as eggs and flour, dry and
and to afford them protection from Canadians during the pandemic, the canned goods, meat and poultry (and
harm. Social workers promote social federal government took immediate even toilet paper) emptied stores.
fairness and the equitable distribution action to implement a Canadian These actions called into question
of resources, and act to reduce barriers Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) the resilience of Canada’s food
16 SUMMER 2020systems. With pre-existing precarious of those experiencing food insecurity – Opportunity for New “Normal”
employment and food insecurity, citing this “once in a lifetime chance” to From crisis also comes opportunity
the impact of COVID-19 could be make change. to assess and critically reflect on our
monumental. One in eight Canadians individual professional identities as
Safe and Affordable Housing
experience food insecurity and with the
social workers and our collective role
impacts of COVID-19, this number was The COVID-19 crisis heightened
as a profession to create and shape
expected to increase.3 awareness of those one paycheque
away from homelessness and the a new normal — a normal that will
According to the recently released develop a positive way forward to
increasing challenges of those already
PROOF report, “Before COVID-19, more implement radical system change
experiencing homelessness in Alberta.
Canadians were experiencing food to address poverty, food insecurity,
Public health directives around
insecurity than ever before, a number income security and homelessness.
physical distancing and personal
that has risen to 4.4 million people, hygiene challenged social workers and Humanitarian and social justice
including 1.2 million children under organizations providing supports to advocate Sonya Renee Taylor reflects,
18. Food insecurity damages the health vulnerable populations. Providing a “We will not go back to normal.
and wellbeing of adults and children. safe place for those facing homelessness Normal never was. Our pre-corona
People who are food-insecure are much would be critical in supporting existence was not normal other
more likely to suffer from chronic vulnerable people to have a safe and than we normalized greed, inequity,
physical and mental health conditions healthy place to live while taking
exhaustion, depletion, extraction,
and have lower life expectancy.”4 important steps to prevent the spread of
There are several factors contributing disconnection, confusion, rage,
the coronavirus. While provincial and
to food insecurity that highlight the hoarding, hate and lack. We should
federal governments developed plans
depth of the problem, all exacerbated not long to return, my friends. We are
to help shelters respond to COVID-19,
by the COVID-19 public health being given the opportunity to stitch
they also committed millions to support
response: low-income households; organizations to address the needs of a new garment. One that fits all of
renters; lone parents – particularly those requiring emergency shelter. humanity and nature.”
females; individuals who receive 1
https://www.casw-acts.ca/sites/default/files/
In Edmonton, an innovative, strengths- documents/uBIG_during_COVID_-19.pdf
social assistance and households with
based solution was created to address 2
https://99ef1c2f-cf4f-4886-a2a6-
children younger than 18 years.5
housing needs during the crisis. e608d33a7c01.filesusr.com/ugd/138236_
According to Food Secure Canada, Homeward Trust Edmonton and ba7a4dd75e85420994980904ba220a12.pdf
COVID-19 has highlighted the Boyle Street Community Services https://foodsecurecanada.org/resources-news/news-
3
media/COVID-food-secure-canada-response
inequities in Canada’s food systems, came together to provide a temporary 4
https://proof.utoronto.ca/more-canadians-are-food-
and the need for change: “…This crisis housing solution at the Coliseum Inn insecure-than-ever-before-and-the-problem-is-only-
is an opportunity to strengthen our for people experiencing homelessness. getting-worse/
food system overall, revitalize rural This was implemented alongside 5
https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/assets/info/
economies, improve the health of nutrition/if-nfs-household-food-insecurity-in-alberta.pdf
day services at the EXPO Centre for
Canadians, and build resilience - to
6
https://foodsecurecanada.org/resources-news/news-
those requiring isolation and other
media/covid-19-highlights-food-system-inequities-
climate change and other system supports. Homeward Trust stated, time-systemic-change
shocks - now and into the future.”6 “This creates more capacity for us to http://homewardtrust.ca/covid-19/
7
There is an opportunity to re-think provide everyone with something most
food systems with a focus on local of us have been able to rely on in this
producers to provide for Canadians crisis – a stable home where we can be
in a more sustainable, equitable and healthy and protected.”7 The role of a
healthy manner. To thoroughly address Universal Basic Income Guarantee is
food insecurity in Canada, Food Secure substantial in preventing homelessness
JODY-LEE FARRAH is the Associate Director,
Canada is advocating for a universal and ensuring people can reach health Professional Practice & Advocacy, at the Alberta
basic income that will meet the needs and social supports. College of Social Workers.
THE ADVOCATE 17FEATURE
STORY
Valuing Our Profession:
Lynn Labrecque King
BY MEL PRIESTLEY
“AS THE WORLD CHANGES, I think we can be assured
that some things are not going to change. Our social work
values for things like self-determination and the value in
human dignity are foundational truths and cornerstones to
the profession.”
Over the course of her 38 years in social work, Lynn
Labrecque King, MSW, RSW, has witnessed enormous
transformation in the profession. But no matter where
she was or what she was working on specifically, she has
always been most proud of her work with the amazing
teams of social workers whom she worked with throughout
her career.
Labrecque King retired from her role as the Executive
Director and Registrar for the Alberta College of Social
Workers (ACSW) at the beginning of February and has
had some time to reflect on her career. She also served
as president of the Canadian Council of Social Work
Regulators, worked in management and workforce
development, and with families, children and youth.
18 SUMMER 2020In all her positions, but especially in her later years in always included appreciation for diversity as part of the
leadership and organizational development, Labrecque profession’s values – this is still strong as ever. We rightly
King was most excited by the collaboration and have a commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and
accomplishments of the teams with which she worked. growing stronger together with Indigenous communities
in our country. Our laws are changing relative to ensuring
“The magic really happens when we’ve got multiple minds
equality for persons immigrating, gender equality and
working together for one common purpose,” she says. “I
transparency in general. As societal structures are
am most proud of having been able to
evolving, so is our profession and we
organize with teams of social workers.
are continuing to define and update
That was one thousand times true in
what social work is.”
my role as the Executive Director and
Registrar for the College. It was an Rather than a succinct definition of
amazing privilege to have been able to
The Code of Ethics social work, Labrecque King instead
do that work. Part of the success that we provides both a points to several important lines of
encountered has been in knowing that foundation and haven for thinking that are shaping the current
we have always been in it together.” discussions in the profession.
social workers who may
Maintaining connection with both “Social work is research-based and
colleagues and the profession as a find themselves feeling it’s critical to have good clinical skills
whole is always important but becomes a bit confused or lost and to be a systems-thinker,” she says.
absolutely critical in times of flux.
because of all the changes “Social work education has evolved in
2020 has been a year of astonishing conversations around anti-oppressive
change, with significant challenges in the world and within practice approaches, for example. As we
for those in the helping professions their profession. move forward, it may serve us best to be
particularly. Even before the COVID- more focused not on which theories are
19 pandemic started, Labrecque King the best, but on how we can have them
had been reflecting on how quickly the world is changing work together in practice so that social workers of the future
and the new challenges that globalization, technology and are prepared from a diversity of perspectives.”
radically shifting ideologies have brought to social work.
“I think that’s what makes social work rich,” she
“Globalization has had and will continue to have an continues. “There are multiple ways of looking at things
impact on the evolution of the profession. Social work has as we do our work.”
THE ADVOCATE 19THROUGHOUT THE YEARS, I have always appreciated I WORKED WITH LYNN WHEN she was a manager of
Lynn’s collegial approach and commitment to finding Workforce Development with the Government of Alberta
solutions to advance every issue. Her leadership has starting in 2003. She led a number of huge provincial
extended beyond the ACSW to the Canadian Council of initiatives, including the implementation of the provincial
Social Work Regulators. Throughout her tenure there, training of the new Child, Youth and Family Enhancement
especially in the role of president, she has been a Act and the complete rewrite of provincial delegation
shining example of commitment to Canadian social work training for Children’s Services. There was a great deal
regulation! Her colleagues across the country appreciate of pressure to provide results with very short timelines.
her many accomplishments and will miss her. Lynn, enjoy Lynn always led with thoughtful humour, patience, and
spending more time with your family, your travels and the creativity. She ensured everything we did reflected
wonderful adventures that lie ahead! excellent social work ethics, practice and principles.
Working with Lynn was one of the most enjoyable
LISA CROCKWELL, MSW, RSW
experiences of my social work career.
NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR ASSOCIATION
OF SOCIAL WORKERS JACQUIE MASTENBROEK, BSW, RSW
One thing that’s not going to change, Labrecque King She also notes that the ACSW is a critical part of how she
says, are the ethics and values for social justice upon was able to stay connected and engaged, as it acts like a
which social work is founded. The Canadian Association beacon linking workers with their profession and with
of Social Workers’ Code of Ethics provides both a other colleagues. This is especially important for workers
foundation and haven for social in small offices or who are working in
workers who may find themselves smaller communities outside urban
feeling a bit confused or lost because centres, and for anyone working in
of all the changes in the world and more virtual environments – which
within their profession. was certainly something that has
The ACSW acts like a happened universally in 2020.
“It always comes back to our values
and principles,” Labrecque King says. beacon linking workers “I’ve always said the ACSW is not
Labrecque King began her social with their profession and an office somewhere in a city, it’s a
work career working with adults place where we can go to network,
with disabilities in Peace River, and
with other colleagues. coordinate with each other and have
then moved into working in child conversations,” Labrecque King says.
welfare, adoptions, income support and Assured Income “Oftentimes it does feel like we’re on our own, but we’re
for the Severely Handicapped in the Grande Prairie and really not. We can count on the fact that supervision and
Edmonton areas. She completed her Bachelor of Social discussing with colleagues is such a strong part of our
Work at the University of Victoria and her MSW at profession. – I will always value my time with the ACSW
Dalhousie University. and encourage all members of the profession to stay
connected.”
Thinking back over her progression in the field, she
marvels at the sheer variety of career avenues that social Labrecque King has never thought of herself as someone
work offers. who gives advice, but rather as someone who co-creates
ideas with others who are working together on a common
“It’s such a diverse profession – there are just so many
purpose. She has a couple of ideas that have worked for
different angles possible with a social work degree,”
her over the course of her profession.
Labrecque King says. “No matter where I lived, I was able
to work in different areas of the profession.” “Keep growing in your profession through reading,
20 SUMMER 2020You can also read
