Reps. Chang, Brinks, Chirkun, Clemente, Cochran, Crawford, Elder, Ellison, Faris, Geiss, Green, Greig, Howrylak, Liberati, Maturen, Moss, Pagan, Phelps, Sabo, Sneller, Sowerby and Yanez offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 273.

            A resolution to declare March 2018 as Social Work Month in the state of Michigan.

            Whereas, The social work profession is dedicated to enhancing the well-being and helping meet the basic needs of all people, especially the most vulnerable members of society; and

            Whereas, Social workers embody this year’s Social Work Month Theme: “Social Workers: Leaders. Advocates. Champions.” By serving, advocating for, and empowering millions of Americans daily; and

            Whereas, Social work is one of the fastest growing careers in the United States, with more than 650,000 people expected by 2024; and

            Whereas Social workers are the largest group of mental health care providers in the United States and work daily to help people overcome substance abuse disorders and mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder; and

            Whereas, Social workers continue to engage and bring together individuals, communities, agencies, and government to help society solve important issues; and

            Whereas, Social workers have helped this nation live up to its ideals by successfully pushing for equal rights for all including women and people of color; and

            Whereas, Social workers have helped bring profound and positive change in our society including voting rights, workplace safety, and social safety net programs to combat poverty and hunger; and

            Whereas, Social workers work in schools, with families, and with individuals to foster the full potential of all persons; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare March 2018 as Social Work Month in state of Michigan. We recognize the numerous contributions made by social workers across this state and country and join in this celebration and support of the social work profession.