St. Mary’s Commissioners Proclaim March Social Work Month, Recognize Countywide Impact

LEONARDTOWN, Md. — For Commissioner Mike Alderson, presenting the National Social Work Month proclamation was an honor.

“I get to present the proclamation for National Social Work Month to a group of hardworking, dedicated people who work in social work,” Alderson said during the March 3 meeting of the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County. Drawing on his past experience working alongside social workers and directors, he added, “They do not do it for the money. They do it because there is a place in their heart for their mission.”

The proclamation outlined the profession’s impact across the county and beyond, describing social workers as “dedicated professionals committed to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for individuals, families and communities.” It noted their role in addressing complex social issues with “unwavering compassion, empathy and resilience,” empowering individuals, supporting families in crisis and promoting long-term positive change.

Social workers serve in health care, mental health, child welfare, education, the military and other fields, often advocating for those who are marginalized or vulnerable. The 2026 theme, “Social Work: Uplift, Defend, Transform,” highlights how social workers turn care for others into action that produces meaningful results.

“By celebrating National Social Work Month, we acknowledge the profound impact of social workers on the lives of our residents, and we reaffirm our commitment to supporting and elevating the profession,” Alderson read.

The commissioners formally declared March 2026 as National Social Work Month in St. Mary’s County, affirming their commitment to ensuring social workers have the resources, support and recognition needed to continue their work.

Accepting the proclamation on behalf of the local Department of Social Services, Jennifer Neff, deputy director of the Social Services Division, described social work as more than a career.

“Social work appreciation month reminds us that social work is both a profession and a calling,” Neff said. “Every day, our social workers stand alongside children, older adults, individuals in crisis, and families navigating complex challenges. They do this work for compassion, integrity, and an unwavering belief in human dignity.”

Neff thanked the department’s community partners, nonprofits, health care providers, schools, law enforcement, faith organizations and volunteers, emphasizing that “collaboration is the foundation of effective social work” and that together they create “a network of support that truly makes a difference.”

Representatives from across the county echoed that message. Tammy Loewe, director of Behavioral Health for the St. Mary’s County Health Department, acknowledged community-based providers who deliver direct care.

“As the theme of Social Work Month of meeting folks where they are, providing support in our community, we are very privileged to be working with all of them who provide that direct care and couldn’t do it without them,” Loewe said.

The school system was also represented. Robin Schrader, supervisor of mental health for St. Mary’s County Public Schools, noted the district has 14 school social workers serving students across the county. Licensed clinical social workers Bianca Ruslander and Alison Vana Boss stood alongside colleagues, highlighting the profession’s presence in local schools.

Together, the speakers underscored that social work in St. Mary’s County extends far beyond one agency, forming a countywide network dedicated to supporting residents at every stage of life.

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