March is National Social Work Month, a time to recognize the professionals who show up daily for vulnerable individuals and communities. This year’s theme is “Uplift. Defend. Transform.” As a 30+ year medical social worker at Angels of Mercy Home Care, this theme resonates deeply with Christy Singrey. Today, she’s here to share all the details.
Source: NASW Social Work Month 2026
What Is Social Work Month?
The goal of Social Work Month is to educate others on the contributions social workers make and elevate the profession. It has been celebrated every March since 1963, and is led by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW).
Social work is one of the fastest-growing careers in the U.S., with over 810,000 social workers employed nationally and a 6-9% growth projected over the next decade. It’s no wonder the field has such growth, seeing as social workers serve in virtually every section, including:
- Hospitals
- Schools
- Government agencies
- Home care
- Nonprofits
- And more
What This Year’s Theme Represents
The three words each carry distinct meaning for the profession:
- Uplift: creating opportunities and encouragement; helping individuals feel seen and supported
- Defend: standing beside patients with integrity and respect; advocating for their rights and access to resources
- Transform: improving the systems patients depend on, one person and one community at a time
The theme honors social workers’ commitment during cultural, political, and economic uncertainty. NASW is marking the month with a “Day in the Life” video series, media tours, and panel discussions on how social workers are responding to today’s challenges.
How These Ideas Show Up in Home Care
For Christy Singrey, these words are a description of her daily reality. As a medical social worker at Angels of Mercy Home Care, she works with individuals navigating chronic illness, disability, and conditions like dementia, helping them access the resources they need to remain at home with independence and dignity. She uplifts patients by connecting them with community support, defends their right to quality care by guiding them through financial aid applications and health care systems, and transforms their circumstances by ensuring no one has to face those challenges alone.
Social Work Month is a meaningful reminder that this work is never just a job. It’s a calling.
