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National Professional Social Worker’s Month

An appreciation day in March recognizing professional social workers for supporting individuals and communities and advocating for justice.

Monday
1–31
March 2027
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team
Have an update or spot an error?
YEARLY DATEAll of March
OBSERVED INUnited States
CATEGORYCareers
SUBCATEGORYHealthcare
ORIGIN

Institutional Initiative

FOUNDING ENTITY
National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
FIRST OBSERVED
1963
HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

The National Association of Social Workers promoted Professional Social Worker’s Month beginning in 1963 to build public support, later receiving federal recognition in 1984.

Institutional Recordvia socialworkers.org
INTRO

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate the hardworking and compassionate individuals who make a difference in people's lives every day on National Professional Social Worker's Month, which occurs throughout the month of March. This month is dedicated to recognizing and honoring the contributions of social workers who provide support, guidance, and assistance to those in need. Did you know that social work has been around for over a century? It has evolved into a diverse field with various specializations, from mental health to child welfare to community development. So let's take this opportunity to thank and appreciate all the amazing social workers out there!

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TIMELINE

National Professional Social Worker’s Month Timeline

Early Roots of Social Work

In the late 19th century, the earliest forms of social work, also known as charitable work, emerged to assist the disadvantaged and impoverished communities.

Professionalization Begins

The New York School of Philanthropy (now Columbia University School of Social Work) was founded, marking the professionalization of the social work field.

Formal Recognition

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is established. It solidifies social work as a professional field and supports social workers nationwide.

Congressional Acknowledgement

The U.S. Congress formally recognizes March as National Professional Social Worker’s Month.

New Focus on Advocacy

NASW adopts a new theme for the Month: "Elevate Social Work," emphasizing the need for social workers to play a stronger role in policy advocacy and social change.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Professional Social Worker’s Month

EDITOR'S PICK

Support a social worker

Show your appreciation for the hard work and dedication of social workers by supporting them in their daily tasks. Offer to lend a hand with administrative tasks or provide resources for them to use.

ATTEND

Attend a workshop

Educate yourself about the important role of social workers by attending a workshop or seminar focused on their profession. This will not only increase your understanding, but also show your support for their work.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a social service agency

Make a positive impact in your community by volunteering at a social service agency. This will give you a firsthand experience of the work that social workers do and allow you to make a difference in the lives of others.

WRITE

Write a thank-you note

Take a moment to write a heartfelt thank-you note to a social worker who has made a positive impact in your life or the lives of others. This small gesture can go a long way in showing your appreciation for their hard work and dedication.

ORGANIZE

Organize a social worker appreciation event

Gather friends, family, and colleagues to organize a special event to show your appreciation for social workers. This could be a dinner, picnic, or any other type of gathering to celebrate their contributions to society.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Professional Social Worker’s Month is Important

It raises awareness about the profession

By highlighting the achievements of professional social workers during this month-long celebration, we also bring attention to the important roles they hold in our communities. This can inspire others to become involved in helping those in need and raise awareness about the importance of mental health and well-being.

Social workers play a crucial role in society

Professional social workers provide valuable support, resources, and guidance to individuals and families who are facing difficulties. They are dedicated to improving the lives of others and work tirelessly to address systemic issues and promote social justice.

They deserve recognition for their hard work

National Professional Social Worker's Month is an important opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of social workers. It's a chance to show appreciation for all that they do, and to thank them for their dedication, empathy, and commitment.

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