Despite COVID-19 vaccines' demonstrated safety and effectiveness in preventing severe illness and death, there are still many who have not been vaccinated. We are sharing resources to assist social workers and their clients to make informed vaccine decisions.
Campaign Disclaimer- The Connect to End COVID-19 Initiative is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as part of a financial assistance award totaling $3.3 million with 100 percent funded by CDC/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
NABSW is actively working to prevent the spread of the virus and ensure service access, including teletherapy. Continuously monitoring developments, NABSW strives to safeguard social workers and their clients. In this public health crisis, social workers play a crucial role in promoting disease prevention, disseminating accurate information, and addressing anxiety. Here are some information and resources.
NABSW 2023 COVID-19 Awareness Initiative Report
Explore highlights from our recent events.
Houston Event:
Witness moments captured in photos from our Houston event, featuring President Deveeta Porter in the first picture and the esteemed speaker, Dr. Hattie Henderson, in the third. With approximately 26 social workers present in person and one joining via conference call, the gathering was a meaningful exchange of insights and experiences.
Shreveport Event:
Step into the exciting atmosphere of our Shreveport event, where we hosted the knowledgeable Dr. Abu Ibrahim to discuss COVID awareness. Dr. Ibrahim delved into topics such as the origin of the virus, debunking myths, vaccination information, and strategies for awareness and prevention. The event was accessible via Zoom and also livestreamed on our Facebook Live page for broader engagement. We shared President Haley's impactful video on COVID, underscoring the vital role of social workers on the front lines during the initial phases of the pandemic.
COVID Workshop Presented by NOABSW President, Tanyaka Cline:
The COVID Workshop, held on Thursday August 10, 2023, was a collaborative effort by NOABSW to address the unique challenges faced by Black individuals and communities as a result of the ongoing pandemic. The workshop agenda encompassed a wide range of topics, each designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the pandemic's impact and offer practical solutions for addressing its effects. Some key components of the workshop included:
- Health Disparities and COVID-19: This session focused on the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on marginalized communities, particularly within the Black population. It explored the root causes of health disparities and discussed strategies to mitigate their effects.
- Mental Health and Resilience: The workshop emphasized the importance of mental health during the pandemic, offering guidance on maintaining emotional well-being and building resilience. Strategies for coping with stress, anxiety, and isolation were shared.
- Community Engagement and Support: This session highlighted the vital role of community organizations and social workers in providing support to vulnerable populations. Attendees learned about successful community engagement models and effective outreach strategies.
- Advocacy and Policy: The workshop included discussions on advocating for policies that address systemic inequalities and promote health equity. Attendees were empowered to engage in advocacy efforts that uplift marginalized communities.
- Cultural Sensitivity and Trauma-Informed Care: Understanding the cultural nuances of Black communities is crucial for providing effective care. This session focused on cultural sensitivity and trauma-informed approaches to better serve the needs of those affected by the pandemic.
The COVID Workshop was well-received by participants, who found the information and insights provided to be invaluable. Attendees appreciated the practical tools and resources offered, enabling them to make a positive impact within their communities and professional spheres.
As we continue to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic, NOABSW remains dedicated to providing support, education, and advocacy for Black social workers and communities. The success of the COVID Workshop underscores our commitment to addressing critical issues and promoting positive change.
Additional Resources:
NABSW Tackles Covid-19 - https://streamyard.com/552ubgitd93y
NABSW COVID-19 Webinar Part II - https://streamyard.com/qzhuz6jc4nn7
NABSW COVID-19 Webinar Part III - https://streamyard.com/rb7dtqg5ihcs
https://www.nabsw.org/resource/resmgr/covid-19/toolkit/presentation-covid-19.docx
https://www.nabsw.org/resource/resmgr/covid-19/toolkit/covidr.pptx
Initiative Supporter links
AARP - https://join.aarp.org
Walden University - https://www.waldenu.edu/partners/nabsw
Eligible Members and Affiliates of National Association of Black Social Workers can receive a 10% tuition savings.