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Last Updated: Apr 9, 2019 - 11:48:41 AM |
Minister of Social Services and Urban Development, the Hon. Frankie Campbell presents former Social Worker, now Island Administrator, Ms. Julita Ingraham (centre) with a Special Award for her many contributions to the field of Social Work in The Bahamas during the Bahamas Association of Social Workers, Northern Chapter''s Third Biennial Social Work Gala Ball held Saturday in the Bahamas Union of Teachers (BUT) Building, West Atlantic Drive, Freeport, Grand Bahama. Also pictured (at right) is Mrs. Lillian Quant-Forbes, Director, Department of Social Services, Ministry of Social Services and Urban Development. (BIS Photo/Matt Maura)
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Freepoprt, Grand Bahama - Addressing the social needs of the less fortunate in society is more than just a career, Minister of Social Services and Urban Development, the Hon. Frankie A. Campbell said Saturday.
“It is a ministry; a passion; a gift that only a select few have been chosen to do. Yes, some have entered the field for other reasons, but my concentration is on the chosen. It sets them apart from all of the others, and the difference is evidenced by their attitudes toward the indigent; their willingness to advocate; their acceptance of the long hours of hard work and stress without complaint, and their determination to be a part of the solution when problems arise.
“The list is endless, with the end result being this: The inner satisfaction of seeing changes, improvements, progress, empowerment, independence, and self-sufficiency, whether with clients or within the organization.”
Addressing the third biennial Bahamas Association of Social Workers, Northern Chapter, Social Work Gala Ball held at the Bahamas Union of Teachers (BUT) Hall, West Atlantic Drive, Freeport, Minister Campbell said Saturday’s event affirmed social work as a noble profession.
“More importantly, it raises the standard of social work,” Minister Campbell added.
The Gala Ball served as the culmination of activities commemorating Social Workers Month, observed annually in March. The 2019 theme was: 'Elevate Social Work.'
The first 'Social Worker' and 'Assistant of the Year' awards were established in 2015 on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the Department of Social Services to recognize and celebrate the achievements of Social Workers/Assistants, promote the Social Work profession and incentivize individuals to achieve excellence while underscoring the valuable contribution of social work to the community.
Organizers said the event proved to be so successful that it has taken on a life of its own, evolving into the recognition of outstanding Social Workers and Assistants -- underscoring the worth of both technical and non-technical staff.
“For this, you are being commended and I encourage you to continue this tradition,” Minister Campbell said. “The Social Work Gala Ball recognizes leadership, creativity, insight, innovation, advocacy, knowledge and commitment to the profession of social work, and all it stands for. Consequently, it has gained the recognition and respect of peers, other professionals and the community, a fact that has been demonstrated by the overwhelming support it has received since its inception in 2015.
“The nominees for Social Worker and Assistant of the Year have demonstrated, among others, sharp leadership and interpersonal skills; positivity; insightfulness; efficiency; productivity; responsibility; creativity and innovation; integrity; a keen knowledge of not only programs, but the profession itself (there is a difference); advocacy; kindness; team spirit; and above all, respect for the dignity of others, with a desire to uplift humanity.
“Tonight, I thank you for your sacrifice. Tonight, I thank you for answering the call. Tonight, I thank you for staying the course.”
Minister Campbell applauded all of the nominees for meeting the criteria for consideration as Social Worker and Assistant of the Year, and had these words for the overall winners.
“The prestigious award that you will receive tonight will be but a token of the high esteem in which you are held. The fact that you were selected by your peers as well as by a panel of international judges, speaks volumes. It is my understanding that verbal reports were not the only measuring tool, but sample work as well. I congratulate both of you in advance.
“I would be remiss if I did not mention the overwhelming support from the community and other professionals, with whom we share a close network. Thank you for endorsing this event by attending. Your presence is meaningful and we appreciate your sincere support.
“A most fitting conclusion to my remarks is encapsulated in the title of the song by the Consolers, ‘May the Work I’ve Done Speak for Me.’ To the winners of the Third Biennial Social Work Gala Ball, your work has spoken for you very loudly and very clearly. I wish therefore, to thank you for doing your part in making your community, and by extension, The Bahamas, a better place,” Minister Campbell said.
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