Jacki Brunk, LCSW, Northeastern District Chair
Welcome to the monthly district update of the Northeast District!
Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a joyous and peaceful holiday season! I’m ready to embrace this new year, filled with resolutions to focus on self-care so I can, in turn, focus on others. With our first holiday fast approaching, Martin Luther King Day on January 16th, I’m reminded of one famous quote from this great man: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, What are you doing for others?" Social workers continue to serve the needs of others though personal, political, social, and environmental climates may be treacherous. I encourage everyone to continue to take care of yourselves so we can continue our mission of helping others.
I am looking forward to our next CEU event scheduled for January 11th in Deerfield from 4:30-6:00pm, “High School’s over…now what? Independence for youth after high school." Life after high school can be challenging for adolescents, especially those with IEPs. This workshop explores resources in Lake County and beyond to help prepare kids to transition into adulthood and independence.
I am in the process of scheduling future CEU events and always welcome input from members regarding interesting topics, speakers, and venues. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any fresh ideas you may have so we can all learn more!
CHAPTER NEWS
Morgan State University Professor Anthony Estreet to be next CEO of NASW
Anthony Estreet, a professor and former chair of the Master of Social Work Program at Morgan State University and chief executive officer of a behavioral health company in Baltimore, will be the new chief executive officer of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) beginning February 6. Read more here: https://www.naswil.org/post/morgan-state-university-professor-anthony-estreet-to-be-next-ceo-of-nasw
Join the 2023 NASW-Illinois Chapter Board of Directors
DEADLINE: March 1, 2023
Want to make a difference for social workers in Illinois and beyond? Have expertise in a particular method or field of social work practice? Do you hold a unique perspective that you believe is under-represented? Joining the NASW-Illinois Chapter Board of Directors is a great way to implement change, share your knowledge, and voice your opinions! Consider getting involved in your professional association, or nominating a colleague for a leadership position. Read more here: https://www.naswil.org/post/join-the-2023-nasw-illinois-chapter-board-of-directors
New Student Loan Repayment Program Launches for Community Behavioral Health Care Professionals
The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) has launched the application for a student loan repayment assistance program to support qualified mental health and substance abuse professionals. The Community Behavioral Health Care Professional Loan Repayment Program is designed as an incentive for recruitment and retention of those who practice in underserved or rural areas. Read more here: https://www.naswil.org/post/new-student-loan-repayment-program-launches-for-community-behavioral-health-care-professionals
Other Chapter News
· Ask NASW-IL: What do I need to renew my LSW/LCSW license in 2023? https://www.naswil.org/post/ask-nasw-il-what-do-i-need-to-renew-my-lsw-lcsw-license-in-2023
· IDFPR Waives License Restoration Fees for LCSWs through 01/01/28:https://www.naswil.org/post/idfpr-waives-license-restoration-fees-for-lcsws-through-01-01-28
· NASW-IL Full Statement on ASWB Test Analysis: https://www.naswil.org/post/nasw-il-full-statement-on-aswb-test-analysis
For more news, go to the NASW-Illinois Chapter News page: https://www.naswil.org/blog