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Adopt and present a resolution recognizing March 2026 as Social Work Month in Solano County (Supervisor James)
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Published Notice Required? Yes _____ No __X__
Public Hearing Required? Yes _____ No __X__
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
The Department of Health and Social Services recommends that the Board of Supervisors adopt and present a resolution recognizing March 2026 as Social Work Month in Solano County.
SUMMARY:
March is recognized nationwide as Social Work Month, honoring the vital role social workers play in supporting individuals, families, and communities. Social workers are dedicated professionals who enhance well-being, advocate for vulnerable populations, and provide critical services across diverse areas, including child welfare, health, and justice. Despite the challenges of long hours and emotional demands, social workers remain committed to improving lives and connecting people with resources. The National Association of Social Workers’ 2026 theme, “Social Work: Uplift. Defend. Transform,” highlights the behind-the-scenes impact of social work in strengthening communities and empowering those in need.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The costs associated with the preparation and purchase of resolution materials are included in the Board’s FY2025/26 Working Budget. There is no additional impact on the County General Fund.
DISCUSSION:
March is National Social Work Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of social workers across the country. In Solano County, this observance provides a significant opportunity to honor the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to support individuals, families, children, and older adults in need of care and protection.
The core mission of social work is to enhance human well-being, meet basic human needs, and empower those who are vulnerable, oppressed, or living in poverty. Social workers enter the profession driven by a deep commitment to uplift, advocate for, and transform lives, helping individuals and communities overcome challenges that stand in the way of reaching their full potential.
National Social Work Month also educates the public about the critical role social workers play every day. Social work requires expertise in psychology, crisis intervention, and navigating complex legal requirements to protect and serve their clients. Social workers provide a 24-hour safety net for children, older adults, and individuals with disabilities, offering services that stabilize and improve lives. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are more than 810,000 social workers in the United States. Despite the emotional demands, long hours, and modest pay, these dedicated professionals strive daily to improve the quality of life and advocate for those in need. Solano County is proud to employ more than 150 social workers across multiple departments, including the Public Defender’s Office, the Probation Department, and multiple divisions within the Health and Social Services Department, including Child Welfare Services, Employment and Eligibility Services, and Public Health (Older and Disabled Adult Services, and Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Services). To succeed in this challenging profession, social workers must be passionate, empathetic, clear communicators, good listeners, team players, and open-minded, qualities Solano County social workers demonstrate every day.
The 2026 Social Work Month theme, “Social Work: Uplift. Defend. Transform,” highlights the behind-the-scenes impact social workers have in connecting people, systems, and solutions. Their work may often go unseen, but its influence is profound.
As we commemorate Social Work Month, let us recognize and celebrate the social workers who empower and uplift some of the most vulnerable members of our community. Their exceptional contributions are deeply valued and applauded as March 2026 is officially recognized as Social Work Month in Solano County.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board could choose not to adopt this resolution, recognizing March 2026 as Social Work Month in Solano County. This is not recommended, as this is an opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the County’s Social Workers.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
None.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION