News

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This web section shares the latest news, trends, and events relevant to Metro DC Chapter social workers, including press releases, policy and issue statements, professional and licensing updates, training announcements, advocacy action alerts, research updates, and other information.

The Metro DC Chapter is one of 55 chapters of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), the largest association of professional social workers in the United States. Our nearly 1,000 members serve all populations, including children, adolescents, families, older adults, immigrants, LGBTQ individuals, and others. They also serve clients in every DC ward and work setting, as well as in the DC metropolitan area such as Northern Virginia and nearby Maryland.

If you are a member of the media seeking an interview, comment, or answer to questions, please contact Executive Director Debra Riggs, CAE, at driggs.naswdc@socialworkers.org.


Urge Your Legislators to Vote Yes on Mental Health Provisions in HEROES Act!


Contact your legislators today to voice support for mental health funding and resources! On May 14, the Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Emergency Solutions (HEROES) Act (H.R. 6800) was delivered for consideration by the full U.S. House of Representatives. The bill supports mental health by

  • Providing emergency funding to maintain state and local mental health services
  • Allocating $100 billion in emergency funding for health care providers, including mental health providers
  • Establishing 9-8-8 as the nation’s three-digit hotline for effective mental health crisis care and suicide prevention
  • Providing Medicaid coverage for eligible people leaving the criminal justice system, and
  • Ensuring safe housing for people with mental illness via investments in emergency rental assistance and assistance to homeowners and people experiencing homelessness.

The House could vote as early as Friday, May 16 on this legislation, so act fast to tell legislators to vote YES!