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National Social Work Month

An appreciation day in March recognizing social workers for helping individuals, families, and communities navigate challenges.

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
CATEGORYAwareness
SUBCATEGORYSocial Justice
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 National Social Work Month beginning in 1963 to build public support for the profession, later receiving formal federal recognition in 1984.

Institutional Recordvia socialworkers.org
INTRO

Introduction

Let’s celebrate National Social Work Month on March 1st! This month is dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the work of social workers around the world. It was first created in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy as a way to recognize the important contributions that social workers make to our society. From providing support and guidance to helping people through difficult times, social workers are true heroes who dedicate their lives to helping others. So let’s take this month to show our appreciation for all the hard work they do!

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TIMELINE

National Social Work Month Timeline

Early Social Work Movement

The beginning of the organized social work profession in the United States, marked by the establishment of the New York School of Philanthropy.

NASW Formation

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) was established, aimed at unifying social workers and promoting their profession.

Presidential Proclamation

President John F. Kennedy declared March as National Social Work Month as a way to recognize the important contributions of social workers.

Social Workers' Safety

The NASW addressed social workers' safety for the first time after increased reports of workplace violence.

Social Work Reinvestment Act

Introduction of the Social Work Reinvestment Act aimed at improving working conditions and funding for social workers.

Increased Recognition

Multiple states in the US officially recognized March as Social Work Month, contributing to increased visibility and recognition.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Social Work Month

EDITOR'S PICK

Attend a conference

Attend a local or national conference related to social work. This will give you a chance to learn from leading professionals and connect with others in the field.

ORGANIZE

Organize a fundraising event

Organize a fundraising event to help support social work initiatives in your community. Ask local businesses to donate items for silent auctions or raffles, or plan a benefit dinner or concert.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer with a local organization

Find a local organization that is focused on social work that needs volunteers and offer your services. This will give you the opportunity to put your skills to use for a good cause.

SHARE

Share stories online

Share stories of people whose lives have been changed by social work on social media channels like Twitter and Facebook. This will help raise awareness of the importance of social work.

WRITE

Write letters of appreciation

Write letters of appreciation to social workers who have made an impact in your life or in your community. This will help recognize their hard work and dedication.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Social Work Month is Important

Social work is an effective form of mental health treatment

Social workers address mental health issues by providing psychotherapy and other forms of counseling. These interventions can help individuals develop coping skills to manage stress, anxiety and depression, as well as life skills such as problem solving and communication.

Social workers help people in need

Social workers are dedicated to helping individuals, families and communities who are facing difficult times. They provide support, resources and guidance that can make a huge difference in the lives of those who are struggling.

Social work promotes social justice

By working with marginalized populations, social workers fight for social justice and strive to create a more equitable society. Through their advocacy efforts they seek to ensure everyone has access to the same rights, privileges and opportunities, regardless of age, race, gender or income level.

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