April 28 - 30, 2011 Social Workers as ... - Home Page - ACSW · Volume 36, Issue 1, spring 2011. . Feature story: International social work reinforces ideals. page 26 Online grief

Annual ConferenceApril 28 - 30, 2011

Social Workers as Nation Builders:

Speaking Truth to Power

Calgary Telus Convention Centre — 120 Ninth Avenue SEwww.calgary-convention.com

ADVOCATEA L B E R T A C O L L E G E O F S O C I A L W O R K E R S

THE

Volume 36, Issue 1, spring 2011

www.acsw.ab.ca

Feature story: International social work reinforces ideals page 26

Online grief support: is this a good idea? page 18 Meet two of our conference speakers page 22

A day in the life: Chris Sunderland page 24 Public members enhance council page 30

59388 Advocate Spring11.indd 1 11-03-03 7:08 AM

The Advocate • Spring 20112

THE ADVOCATE EDITORIAL POLICY: The Advocate seeks to serve as a “meeting place” for Alberta social workers by publishing information about social work research, theory, practice, and education; professional affairs; social issues; the work of the College; books, journals, and other media of interest to social workers; continuing education and job opportunities; and the comings and goings of Alberta social workers. Members and the public are welcome to submit articles, stories, anecdotes, poems, thoughts and ideas. Letters to the editor, announcements, cartoons, artwork, and pictures are also welcome (suggested word counts: reports, letters, announcements — 400-900 words; articles — max. 1000 words). The Editorial Board reserves the right to edit submitted material. Please call the ACSW office for a copy of “Writing for the Advocate” before submitting material. Publication does not imply endorsement by the College.

The Advocate is published quarterly. Deadlines are JANUARY 15 for the SPRING issue (March publication), APRIL 15 for SUMMER (June publication), JULY 15 for FALL (September publication), and OCTOBER 15 for WINTER (December publication).

ALL SUBMISSIONS: The Advocate, ACSW, #550, 10707 - 100 Avenue, Edmonton AB T5J 3M1

ATTN: Lori Sigurdson • E-MAIL: [email protected] • PHONE: (780) 421-1167 • FAX: 421-1168.

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FEATURE STORY

International social work reinforces ideals ............Chris Sunderland ................................26

FEATURES

Online grief support: is this a good idea? ............. Zosia Whittaker ...................................18

Meet two of our conference speakers ................... Joan Marie Galat .................................22

A day in the life: Chris Sunderland ....................... Joan Marie Galat .................................24

Public members enhance council ......................... Joan Marie Galat .................................30

NEWS

From our desk to yours .................................... Lori Sigurdson .................................... 3

ACSW 2011 bursary recipients .......................... ......................................................... 7

U of C Updates: Bringing the history of

African social work home .............................Betty Rice ........................................ 14

REGULAR FEATURES

President’s report ............................................ Bob Johnson ....................................... 8

Executive Director’s report ............................... Rod Adachi ......................................... 9

Ethics in action: It’s the little things ............... Alison MacDonald.............................. 10

Private Practice: Private Practice Page ............... Brenda Duncan.................................. 12

New RSWs .......................................................Membership as of February 15, 2011 . 13

Diploma Dialogue: Grant MacEwan University .......Alan Knowles ......................................16

For Your Information ......................................... Announcements ...................................32

The opinions and interpretations expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of the

Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW), its editorial board, or contractors. The aforementioned make no

guarantee or warranty, either expressed or implied, about the accuracy or links contained in the Advocate,

and are not liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages that could arise.

All material with bylines is ©2011 by author. ACSW retains copyright when no author is listed.

The AdvocateVolume 36, Issue 1, Spring 2011

Published by:The Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW)

550 10707 100 AVE NWEdmonton AB T5J 3M1Phone: 780-421-1167

Toll-free in Alberta: 1-800-661-3089Fax: 780-421-1168 or toll-free 1-866-874-8931

E-Mail: [email protected]: www.acsw.ab.ca

Executive Director & Registrar: Rod Adachi, MSW, [email protected]

Associate Registrar: Alison MacDonald, PhD, RSW [email protected]

Professional Affairs Coordinator: Lori Sigurdson, MSW, RSW, [email protected]

Coordinator, Finance and Administration: Gladys Smecko

Registration Coordinator: Brenda Gross

Executive Assistant to the Executive Director: Kim Chiles

Registration Secretary: Monica VasconezRegulatory Secretary: Desiree Hurst

Administrative Secretary: Nearint NeamPromotions Coordinator: Ilona Cardinal, BA, BFA

Competency Secretary: Jennifer Catt, Bsc

ACSW Council:President: Bob Johnson, MSSW, RSW

Vice President: Tera Dahl-Lang, MSW, RSW Secretary: Anna Malo, MSW, RSWTreasurer: Terry Wilson, BSW, RSWMembers: Derek Chewka, MSW, RSW

Richard Gregory, MSW, RSWBarry Hall, PhD, RSW

Jolene Losness, MSW, RSWBarbara McPherson, MA, RSW

Kelly Stratford, BSW, RSWAboriginal Committee Representative:

Monica Red Crow, BSW, RSWPublic Members: Lyle Berge

Marija Bicanic, LLM Austin Mardon, CM Joni Paulus, LLB

CASW Representative: Emily Drzymala, PhD, RSW

The Advocate is published quarterly for members of ACSW and other interested parties.

Editorial Board: Papiya Das, MSW, RSW (Chair)Duane Burton, BSW, MEd, RSW

Eugene Ip, DPhil, RSWLeslie MacKinnon, BSW, RSW

Anne Marie McLaughlin, PhD, RSWElaine Paras, MSW, RSWPeter Smyth, BSW, RSW

Editor: Joan Marie GalatProduction Editor: Jena SnyderDesign: Kyle Loranger Design

Advertising space is available; please call the ACSW office for details or to place an ad. The Editorial Board

reserves the right to reject any advertising.

SUMMER 2011 ISSUE DEADLINE: APRIL 15, 2011

Canadian subscriptions are $26/year (outside Canada: $26 US/year) Please notify ACSW

office immediately of any address changes.

ISSN 0847 - 2890PM NO. 40050109

RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO550 10707 100 AVE NWEDMONTON AB T5J 3M1


in the news

3Volume 36 • Issue 1

From our desk to yoursby Lori Sigurdson, MSW, RSW

ACSW Professional Affairs Coordinator

Lori Sigurdson

Continued on page 4

Altaf Ali is ACSW’s new area coordinator for Edson. Along with colleagues, he met with Lori Sigurdson to

jump start activities in the Edson area. Welcome Altaf!

L to R: Lindsey McColm, James Toner, Shelley Campbell, Lori Sigurdson and Altaf Ali, area coordinator for

Edson

Heather Johnson, Chair

of the Calgary area

coordinators and MC for

the holiday social

New Public MembersACSW Council has two new public members: Joni Paulus

and Lyle Berge.

Joni is a lawyer working in Calgary. She specializes in

energy, corporate/commercial banking, Aboriginal and

environmental law.

Lyle Berge is also from Calgary. He is employed as a

mediator with the Provincial Court Civil Mediation

Program. Both have extensive backgrounds in board

governance. Welcome to our new public members!

Many Thanks Lynne and Ralph!Lynne Davies and Ralph Westwood have provided dedicated

service as public members to ACSW Council for the past

seven years. Both of their terms have now ended. By providing

insight and expertise from a public perspective, Lynne and

Ralph supported Council to make sound decisions.

Best wishes to them on future projects!

Learn more about their experience on Council by turning to

page 30.

ACSW staff at the Edmonton holiday social: L to R: Nearint Neam, Jennifer Catt, and

Ilona Cardinal

Lina Filomena-Melchionna, chair of the

Edmonton area coordinators and MC for the

holiday social

Area Coordinators busy over holidays

Area Coordinators were busy with activities during the holiday season. Coordinators in Medicine Hat,

Lethbridge, Rocky Mountain House, Calgary, Edmonton, and Lac La Biche all hosted events.

Gorgeous tree at the Calgary

holiday social


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New baby!Suzanne Taylor, coordinator for Athabasca, has been busy

with other responsibilities. Her son, Jacob Maxwell Taylor,

(pictured here) is seeing to that.

New ACSW committeesThree new ACSW committees have sprung up. The

International Social Work Committee is now meeting thanks

to the initiative of Erin Wanini. The Social Action Social

Justice Committee in Calgary has been established. Their first

event is hosting ACSW’s Social Policy Framework Workshop

March 22. Thanks to Karen Wyllie and Linda McFarlane for

their work on this. Gerontological social workers have been

meeting since the fall thanks to the work of Scott Stewart. For more information regarding this please contact Lori

Sigurdson ([email protected]).

City of Edmonton social worker

Kris Andreychuk is part of the

Neighbourhood Empowerment

Team working on proactive

crime prevention in Edmonton.

He works with his partner,

Constable Steve Sharpe of the

Edmonton City Police. Kris’

work has recently received

accolades. Before Christmas, See

Magazine made a list similar to

Santa’s Naughty and Nice one.

Kris made the Nice list for his community development

work. Congratulations!

From our deskContinued from page 3

Jacob Maxwell Taylor, son of Athabasca area coordinator Suzanne

Taylor

Kris Andreychuk

Congratulations Alison!Alison MacDonald, Associate Registrar, has been

elected to the board of directors of the Association of

Social Work Boards (ASWB). The election was held

at the association’s annual meeting in New Orleans in

early November. Alison will serve on an ASWB Board

of Directors seat designated for a regulatory board/

college staff member.

Social Work WeekMarch 13 - 19, 2011

Upcoming activities for Social Work Week, March 13 – 19,

2011, are planned in many areas. Our theme this year is Social

Workers for Dignity and Inclusion: Upholding Human Rights.

Check out our website for events in your area.


in the news


SaturdayOur luncheon keynote on Saturday is Joe Ceci, former

Calgary Alderman. He was elected four consecutive times

totaling fifteen years of public service. He is well known as a

strong advocate for progressive ideas. Joe is a social worker and

will be inspiring his colleagues to get involved in social policy

development.

Please see our Q&A feature on Chief Littlefield and Joe Ceci,

page 22.

Over 50 workshops have been selected from the proposals

submitted. A wide range of workshops are available whether

you are a clinician or a community developer. Twelve

Category A credits are offered to those attending all sessions.

Come learn and regenerate at our 2011 conference in Calgary

April 28 - 30.

2011 Conference Committee

Back row L to R: Cecile Calliou (co-chair), Lea Klassen, Donna Marie Perry, Abeer Morsy, Dean Estrella (co-chair)

Front row L to R: Ciel Sander, Kathleen Kufeldt, Rebecca Rilling, missing : Guadalupe Salguero, Lesley Taylor,

Lissette Tougas, Liz Olorenshaw, Monica Red Crow, Susan Mercer-Thornhill, Carmen Taciune

2011 ACSW Conference

Social Workers as Nation Builders: Speaking Truth to Power April 28 – 30 Calgary Telus Convention Centre

The Conference Planning Committee

has been working hard to organize a

great conference in 2011!

ThursdayOn Thursday evening a local Blackfoot

Elder will provide a prayer for the

conference and the conference

participants. Mayor Nenshi will be

bringing greetings from the City of

Calgary and ONE CIRCLE Dance

Company will showcase their hip hop

style. Their work empowers youth

through dance and music. Be sure to

register on Thursday so that you will be

in the draw for our many door prizes.

FridayOn Friday morning we are honoured

to have Chief Wilton Littlechild,

Commissioner for the Truth and

Reconciliation Commission of Canada,

as our keynote speaker. Chief Littlechild

is from the Erminskin Reserve in central Alberta. He is a

lawyer, athlete, former Member of Parliament and North

American Representative to the United Nations Permanent

Forum on Indigenous Issues. Chief Littlechild will speak

about the challenge we all face in building a more inclusive

nation. He asks, “How will your ethical practice experience as

social workers contribute to this new Canada, wherein we can

restore respectful relations?”

Friday evening after the workshops there will be an

opportunity for some fun! “Speaking Truth to Power at the

Pub” is hosted by the Arusha Centre, the Calgary community

development activists. Come to Broken City Pub, 613 – 11

Avenue SE, to see video clips of local campaigns for social

justice and the environment, receive your own Calgary Dollar

and then stay to hear local musicians take the stage at this

music and culture spot. Continued on page 6


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6 The Advocate • Spring 2011

Closing the Disparity Gap CampaignThe Speech from the Throne presented on Tuesday,

February 22nd, sounded familiar. Statistics Canada

information was cited indicating that Alberta has the highest

rates of domestic violence in the country; a mental health

strategy was discussed; and a credible system to monitor the

oil sands was presented. These are just some of the identified

issues in ACSW’s Social Policy Framework published last

spring. Yes, we have been calling for the Alberta government

to address these issues for some time.

Social workers have a front row seat to government

decision making. We see quickly how policies hurt or help

Albertans. For several years a culture of retrenchment has

hurt Albertans. We have strongly advocated for investment

in health and social programs. We know too well how

vulnerable Albertans are being negatively impacted by this

government’s cutback culture.

Currently we have three provincial parties looking for new

leaders. We have two new parties vying for a chance to

speak for Albertans. A provincial election must be called by

spring 2013 but many believe it will be as early as spring

2012. The winds of change are blowing.

From our desk to yoursContinued from page 5

Social Policy Framework Workshops

• Fort McMurray ..................... March 10

• Grande Prairie ..................... March 14

• Slave Lake .......................... March 15

• Calgary ............................... March 22

• Rocky Mountain House ......... April 11

This is the perfect time for social workers to speak up

regarding our concerns. Asking questions in public meetings,

talking to MLAs, and questioning candidates when the

election is called are significant ways in which social workers

can broaden the social discourses. Alberta is more than gas

and oil. Alberta is also about people. As social workers we

care about our most vulnerable citizens. Everyone should

benefit from Alberta’s wealth. We need progressive policies

that ensure this.

Throughout the spring Social Policy Framework Workshops

will be presented to social workers for Category A credits.

Come learn about a comprehensive social policy framework

developed by ACSW and the Parkland Institute. See how

the 6 values of the CASW Code of Ethics (2005) and Social

Policy Principles translate into progressive social policy for

all Albertans. If your area is not listed below, please contact

your local area coordinator and encourage them to host a

workshop. Information about area coordinators is on the

ACSW website. n


in the news


ACSW 2011 bursary recipients

Dane MilnthorpThirty-two-year-old Dane Milnthorp is in his second year

of the Grant MacEwan University Social Work program.

Milnthorp decided to enter this field after being laid off from

his boom truck operator position during the 2009 recession.

Though frustrated at the time, he now sees himself as lucky

to have found a field that provides a way to support his

family, while providing immense gratification. Milnthorp is a

father of two girls, ages six and two, who he describes as his

greatest teachers.

During the past year and a half, Milnthorp participated in

two field placements, one working in family support with an

Aboriginal population, the other in addictions treatment. He

plans to continue his education to the master’s level and work

in addictions treatment, with a focus on treating the entire

family system.

Amy Price Amy Price graduated from the Red Deer College Social

Work Diploma program in 2006. Since then, she has been

working as a Family School Wellness Worker in both the Red

Deer Public and Catholic school systems. With the goal of

obtaining her degree, Price started on a bachelor of social

work degree through the University of Victoria distance

program. Her main priority is family, including her husband

and their three children ages 11, 12, and 13.

Leanne ShannonWith a background in Communications and Conflict

Resolution, Leanne Shannon is enjoying her return to school

and the University of Calgary MSW program. Her field

experience includes work with families, in-home support

for at-risk families, development of peer support programs

for police families, parent coaching and mentoring, and

community development with a focus on single mothers’

needs. With a passion for family therapy, she hopes to

work with families who have children with special needs,

specifically those on the autism spectrum.

The mother of three children, Shannon is undertaking an

autoethnographic study on her personal experience as a

mother who has a child with Asperger’s Syndrome.

Samantha McCarthyA first-year Mount Royal University social work student,

Samantha McCarthy chose to become a social worker in

response to a passion for helping others and taking stances

against injustice. Her extensive activist background has

focused on feminism, pro-choice, queer issues, anti-poverty,

and anti-racism work.

Two highlights include helping organize a music festival—

Rock 4 Choice from 2007 to 2009 and starting a Food Not

Bombs group, in Edmonton in 2006. Previously, McCarthy

worked and volunteered for two years at the Distress Centre.

When not in school, McCarthy works as a nanny and also

plays in a punk band. She is starting training at the Calgary

Youth Justice Society. She looks forward to using bursary

funds toward obtaining her social work diploma. McCarthy

hopes to use her work, volunteer experience, and education

to obtain a crisis intervention, woman-focused social work

career.

Jessica SmithJessica Smith is in her second year of the Social Work

Diploma Program at Mount Royal University. This fall,

she hopes to attend the University of Calgary to obtain a

bachelor of social work degree.

After her son was born in 2007, Smith became aware of the

many adverse conditions some children experience. She plans

to work with families to normalize the struggles both single

and two-parent households face raising children. She hopes

to specialize in working with children who have endured

trauma—to advocate for their best interests and help them

heal. Smith aspires to the field of social work because of the

positive changes that can happen. n


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PresidentBob Johnson, MSSW, RSW

Bob Johnson

President’s reportI have communicated extensively over the past number of months about council’s decision to terminate ACSW’s

membership with the Canadian Association of Social Workers, effective March 31, 2011. As this date approaches, I assure

each and every one of you that council made every effort to make this a sound decision based on due diligence and full

consideration of the future of ACSW and its members.

We are aware critics of our decision argue we will lose our

presence and influence on the national front and become less

able to impact national issues without a political voice. Our

history suggests otherwise. ACSW has been and continues to

be a leader in our profession.

Alberta was the first province to become affiliated with

the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB). This

prompted ASWB to evolve from a US-based entity into an

international organization and opened the way for all other

Canadian provinces to join. ACSW has been instrumental in

forming the Canadian Council of Social Work Regulators,

which includes every province in Canada, in an organization

that represents more than 35,000 social workers across the

nation. This is a much larger group than CASW and one that

includes Quebec’s 8,000 social workers. Most recently, ACSW

was selected to receive a grant from the Foreign Qualification

Recognition Innovation Fund for a national project on

foreign credentials and social work.

ACSW council has completed a strategic plan and is

committed to ensuring we maintain a national focus through

our involvement in groups such as Canada Without Poverty

and Dignity for All. ACSW is a Friend of the International

Federation of Social Workers and recently established an

International Social Work interest group. We are committed

to ensuring social action/social justice remain a priority that

enhances the relevancy of our profession. We are continuing

to showcase ACSW Social Policy Framework and have

encouraged and supported other social work organizations to

do similar work in their provinces.

Insurance has been the most common concern raised by

members since our decision regarding CASW. We have

found an alternate carrier of liability insurance and specific

information about this insurance program will be provided

soon. It is significant this carrier is also negotiating with the

Ontario Association of Social Workers, which decided to

suspend its membership with CASW effective March 31,

2011, as well.

I reiterate the soundness of council’s decision to leave CASW.

Council extensively discussed and debated the decision at

three separate meetings and each time affirmed the decision

by a majority vote. We worked with CASW to find a

middle ground, but were not successful. This decision is the

result of lengthy and thorough deliberations and reflects the

requirements of the Health Profession Act and the regulatory

processes that establish your professional standing in Alberta

and Canada. n

Bob Johnson is the president of ACSW. He can be reached at [email protected].

Electronic Suggestion BoxOne idea prompts another. Here’s a

chance to be heard! Send us your

rants, raves, and ideas. Tell us who

you admire, what needs improvement,

and how change should occur. Write

to [email protected] with

Electronic Suggestion Box in your

subject heading.


regular feature


Bob Johnson

Executive Director & RegistrarRod Adachi, MSW, RSW

Rod Adachi

Mandatory professional registration In Alberta the social work profession is governed by the Health Professions Act (HPA). It requires

all social workers and other recognized health professionals to be registered with their respective

regulatory colleges in order to provide professional services. The requirement for professional

registration applies to individuals who have recognized social work qualifications, and who provide

social work services directly to the public, and/or supervise social workers who provide professional

services to the public, and/or teach the practice of social work.

From time to time we are advised of individuals who are

practising social work without being registered even though

they qualify for registration. This is in violation of the HPA

and individuals who do not comply with the requirement for

mandatory registration are guilty of an offence. In addition,

it is an offence for employers who knowingly employ

individuals who qualify for registration and are providing

social work services without registration.

Some individuals and employers have incorrectly assumed

that professional registration applies only to those in positions

that have a social work title. Professional registration is

required regardless of the job title if social work services are

being provided by someone with recognized social work

qualifications. Some individuals who have recently moved to

Alberta may not be aware that professional registration is a

requirement to practice social work in this province, as other

provinces or countries may have exemptions or voluntary

registration.

If you become aware of individuals who should be registered

but are not, please inform them about Alberta’s legislative

requirement for professional registration. Should they have

any questions, please refer them to the ACSW office so

that we can respond to their questions and assist them with

application information.

Professional Liability InsuranceFor members concerned about the AON insurance program

offered through the CASW, an alternate provider of

professional liability insurance is being negotiated. Details

about an alternate insurance program will be posted on the

ACSW website and in an upcoming e-newsletter. n

Rod Adachi is the Executive Director and Registrar for ACSW. He can be reached at

[email protected].

DEADLINE

for the SUMMER 2011

Advocate

is APRIL 15, 2011

Remember to keep current between Advocate editions with regular

visits to www.acsw.ab.ca, where you will find news updates,

advocacy projects, social work resources, conference information,

and much more.


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Ethics in actionAlison MacDonald, PhD, RSW

Alison MacDonald

It’s the little thingsI’m often asked to identify the most frequent cause of complaints. There really is no most common

complaint simply because we do not get that many grievances. We had a record high of 41 last

year, which represents less than 0.01 percent of our total membership. Still, there are a few things

that become noticeable when looking at complaints over several years. While some very serious

complaints are expressed in regard to areas such as boundary violations, abuse of trust, and

dishonesty, almost every complaint also includes reference to several less severe allegations.

Trotter (as cited in Skinner, 2009) conducted research to

investigate practices related to improved outcomes for clients.

He found “that it was a pro-social approach to service

delivery that made the difference to service users: Staff

turning up on time, returning phone calls, doing what they

said they would do, listening to users, working with problems

that the service users believed were important, etc.” (p. 46).

Upon reading this, I could not help but think how often I

have heard the same issues raised in the complaint process.

Here are some examples from the last few years:

• A number of clients complained they had provided

reading materials to their social workers and that

the social workers refused to read them. When

asked, social workers in question usually indicate the

materials are not relevant to the services or current

issue, and they do not have time to do the reading.

Clearly these materials are considered important by

the clients.

Some complaints could be avoided by taking the time to at

least hear clients’ rationale for including the information and

showing interest in their perspectives.

• Clients sometimes complain social workers demand

they meet very specific time lines but then are not on

time for appointments or fail to provide documents in

a timely manner.

If something happens to delay you, try to let the client

know right away and apologize whenever you are late.

If circumstances prevent you from getting things to clients

when promised, explain the delay. Show clients their time is

important too.

• Another frequent complaint is that social workers are

rude or sharp when they speak, that they sometimes

swear and yell at clients or colleagues, and that they

are generally aggressive or dismissive in manner. A

recent case description included “yes she was yelling,

but not as loud as I was” demonstrating matters had

escalated to a point where no professional work could

be done.

Everyone can have a bad day now or then, but if you find

yourself behaving in this manner, pull yourself back before it

gets out of hand.

While it may not be reasonable to expect none of these

irritations will ever occur, we can all work to minimize them

in practice. One key is to use communication skills. If you

find yourself snapping at people on occasion, ask someone

you trust to try to help you by giving you a signal to pull

back. Without over-disclosure, be honest with clients if you

have made a mistake. Apologize when appropriate to do so.

Most important, perhaps, is to be self-aware. Reflect on your

practice and the way you relate to others. Think about what

you can do to minimize negative behaviours that may have an

impact on others. And last but not least, take time to take care

of yourself! n

Alison MacDonald is the Associate Registrar for ACSW. She can be reached at

[email protected].


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Alison MacDonald


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Private Practice PageBrenda Duncan, MSW, RSW

Brenda Duncan

Private Practice Page

The Private Practice Committee held its first full-day annual general meeting in Calgary, in September 2010. A success

for both those who arranged and attended, the meeting’s networking focus allowed lively discussion on private practice

issues, as well as the opportunity to meet face to face with other private practice social workers from around the

province.

Some discussion centered on getting the word out that social

workers provide an excellent range of clinical and other

services in our province but are often unrecognized or less

well compensated than peers in other disciplines. While the

Private Practice Roster includes just 63 official members,

many more private practitioners are eligible to apply. Joining

would allow them to enhance their community visibility and

participate in making their views known. Please check out

the ACSW website for information about applying.

Private Practitioner Showcase

Rebekah Seidel, MSW, RSW Rimbey, AB

Rebekah Seidel has worked in community development

based programs and projects domestically and

internationally for twenty-five years. Much of this

involvement has focused on capacity building and

program enhancement with a range of small grassroots

initiatives, regional bodies and networks, and international

organizations.

Interactions occur with a variety of stakeholders and/or

partners including rural communities, neighbourhood

groups, non-profits, the volunteer sector, municipal

governments, and international bodies. Seidel’s current

work involves communities and organizations outside

Alberta’s two major urban centers. Her understanding

of rural Alberta is enhanced by her choice to live in and

contribute to a central Alberta rural community.

Seidel has provided facilitation and leadership to planning

processes, assessments and analyses, and collaborative

initiatives; and enhanced inclusion and participation with

cross cultural groups, marginalized sectors, and rural/

remote/northern communities.

Community and organizational capacity building, inclusive

participation, critical assessment, and empowerment have

been a major focus in Seidel’s working methodology.

Her company is CREO Inc.—communities: resilient,

empowered and organized. n

Brenda Duncan is a member of the Private Practice Committee and can be

reached at [email protected].

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in the news


Brenda Duncan

New RSWsMembership as of

February 15, 2011: 6,240

Abdulfatah Abdullahi

Abdulkadir

Trudy Kaye Allen

Mary Ruth Amundson

Shyla Renee Arbec

Kelly Lee Armour

Deea Shelby Lavonne Bailey

Deva Balasubramanian

Alexis Eilleen Bayer

Alycia Berg

Daniella Pearl Beukema-Eggink

Sheila Elizabeth Biddiscombe

Glenda Ann Bostock

Kathleen Bernadette Bowie

Jodilynn Denae Brown

Kassandra Dawn Charles

Kit Yee Cheong

Priscilla Ann Chisholm

Lisa Ann Clendening

Cheryl Lorraine Crawshaw

Marnie Lynn Cross

Megan Kathleen Davies

Jennifer Dawn de Haan

Lindsay Dercach

Beverly Faith Dion

Jennifer Rae Doerksen

Kareen Lea-anne Downes

Krista Elliott

Tara Leeanne Emery

Wanda Cherelle Ferland

Carmelle Kassell Gill

Keith Bradley Goertzen

Martha Helen Gueffroy

Darice Theresa Henderson

Patricia L. Hinds

Brenda Pauline Holland

Heather Twyla Hooge

Stephen Charles Horsman

Jane Elizabeth Jollimore

Validzhon Karimov

Valerie Jean Lanouette

Kaitlyn Mary LaRiviere

Andrea Layton

Patti-Lee Legal

Amy Theresea Lewis

Justine Lynn Libke

James Bruce MacLean

Janneane Alison Madill

Tracey L. Makokis

Carol Manyheads

Laura Danielle Martin

Heidi Melanie Martinek

Lauren Rae Matsyk

Katharina McCoy

Wanda Ann McGinnis

Elizabeth Anne McNulty

Kelly Michelle McRae-Seifert

Matthew James Miller

Sara Babchin Morin

Joanne Mugabi

Eric Munger

Shelliza Murji

Kara Michelle Nieman

Jocelyn Nimchuk

Robyn May O’Connell

Sze Ka Osborne

Lajeen Sreedharan Palliyil

Jamie Louise Park

Iris Kim Plain Eagle

Tanya Andrea Pohl

Shalini Puri

Jessica Lise Radetzky

Jennifer Rapp

Tracy Lee Red Crow

Zaiell Robichaud

Mary-ann Hollis Rosenau

Casey Lynn Rosewood

Jamie Deanna Sawatzky

Cheryl Sayward

Melissa Sue Scheck

Natasha Semenjuk

Sumati Sharma

Michelle Anne Shewell

Natasha Dawn Shiels

Candace E. Strachan

Sandra Strickland-Cormier

Bobbi-Lee Sutherland

Ruth Eleanor Suvee

Tiffany Noel Syroid

Admasu A. Tachble

Nicole Dawn Thomson

Carly Michelle Tucker

Jo Dee Estelle Unger

Kirby Laine Valgardson

Jacqueline Leah Warbeck

Lisa Anne Wen

Natassha Wilson

Sherri Wist

Brenda Allison Yeates



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U of C updatesBetty Rice University of Calgary Faculty of Social Work

Bringing the history of African social work homeResearcher expands understanding of culturally relevant social work curriculum

Linda Kreitzer is passionate about Africa. The assistant professor of Social Work at the University of

Calgary’s Central and Northern Region campus has felt a personal connection to the continent for 17

years. It began when she decided to accept a volunteer teaching position at a Ghana university. Two

more trips enabled Kreitzer to collect data for master’s and doctorate degrees, received in 1998 and 2004.

Her research examines the issue of culturally relevant social work curriculum in Africa and suggests an

interesting parallel for social workers in this country.

Working in Ghana revealed to Kreitzer that what many African social workers are taught about their own continent takes

second place to what they learn about North America and Europe. Kreitzer identified critical gaps that she believes create

barriers to more culturally relevant

social work throughout Africa. This

includes a lack of local case studies,

which fosters a dependence on

western case studies, as well as a lack

of knowledge of social work history in

Africa, dependence on western social

work curriculum, and a lack of resources

to fill these gaps.

Kreitzer learned of important social

work documents developed in the

seventies and eighties as conference

proceedings of the Association of Social

Work Education for Africa (ASWEA).

She realized this documentation was

critical to the practice of social work in

Africa, as well as to her own work. Representatives of four African nations accept their transcripts of the ASWEA documents in South Africa,

September 2010. Photo courtesy Linda Kreitzer.


in the news


U of C Updates

“One of the issues was that there were no indigenous case studies that students could

learn from, as most teachers use western textbooks for case study examples,” says

Kreitzer. “Although many knew about the documents, in which two volumes were

African case studies, no one seemed to have copies and no one seemed to know

where they were.”

Kreitzer decided to see if she could find the documents. Upon returning to Canada,

she found they had somehow reached libraries across North America. Kreitzer was

able to round up 20 of the 23.

“When I examined the documents, I realized how important they were to the

evolution of social work in Africa and how important it would be for African and

non-African academics, students, and practitioners to have access to these documents,” says Kreitzer. “I realized they should be

made available to Africans as soon as possible, for research and teaching. ”

For six months, Kreitzer worked to account for all the pages, clean the master copies, and make more than 3,500 individual

photocopies. By April 2010, 14 sets of documents were bound and 100 DVDs were ready for distribution. Kreitzer chose a social

work conference in South Africa in September 2010 to present the volumes in person to the nations who participated in the

ASWEA conferences.

“Four countries sent representatives,” says Kreitzer. “The next step is to distribute the remaining sets to the other countries

involved in these conferences, which I plan to do as I travel around Africa in the next few months. After dissemination of the

documents, analysis can begin.”

Colleagues in Africa agree. One scholar wrote a letter, thanking Kreitzer for her efforts. “What a great service you have done

to Africa and to the course of social work in particular. The challenge is now on us—how to put these volumes to good use:

teaching, research and practice.”

Kreitzer’s project also has implications for Canada. “Social work history in Canada, like Africa, tends to reflect a Eurocentric

perspective. Aboriginal social work curriculum should reflect Aboriginal history of social caring and social issues,” says Kreitzer.

“Understanding one’s own history is important in the process of developing theories and practice appropriate to Indigenous

cultures.” n

Betty Rice is the communications consultant for the Faculty of Social Work at University of Calgary.

“What a great service you have done to Africa and to the course of social work in

particular. The challenge is now on us … to put these volumes to good use.

”

The completed African documents


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Diploma DialogueAlan Knowles, PhD, RSW

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Grant MacEwan University

It has been a busy year for students and faculty of the MacEwan program. Students are back at work for the

winter term and everyone is looking forward to the end of cold and snow! Demand for the program remains

very high. In addition to the full and part-time evening programs in Edmonton, we have an off-campus

program of 10 students at Campus Alberta, Hinton, coordinated by Karen Exchange.

social workers at Edmonton’s Glenrose Hospital. Through

her role with Community Initiatives Against Family Violence

(CIAFV), Piedt is also coordinating a one day workshop,

“Through the Eyes of a Child.” In June of 2010, Quinn

presented a workshop at the Canadian Association for Social

Work Education in Montreal called “Three by Three Teaching

Group Work: A Play in Three Acts.”

Two second-year students had articles published during the

fall 2010 term. Kory Varlen coauthored a report with John Kolkman of the Edmonton Social Planning Council and

Joseph Ahorro with Public Interest

Alberta. Time for Action: Working together

to end poverty in Alberta is a joint

publication with Edmonton Social

Planning Council and Public Interest

Alberta.

Sarah Myles wrote an article on sexual

harassment published in SOS Children’s

Safety Magazine. Dorthe Flauer, a graduate of the program and executive

director of Saffron, wrote an article in

the same magazine on sexual assault.

First-year student Karen Kunst published a book, Petals of My Heart:

My Adoption Journey. This book is a

must read, especially for social workers

interested in adoption.

Dr. Liz McNulty joined the faculty as a full-time instructor

in September 2011, and long time faculty member David Hannis retired in June 2010. Not one to ease into retirement,

Hannis embarked on a new adventure in Nigeria. He left

mid-January to work on contract at Kwara State University.

He will be a senior lecturer in the Social Sciences and Global

Studies department and director of the Office of Community

Development.

Shirley Piedt, Kathaleen Quinn, and Sandra Alton will be

involved in consultation and training in group work with

Some of the MacEwan faculty. L to R: Alan Knowles (chair), David Hannis, Bev Verger (program advisor), Peter

Vogels, Maria Smyth, Duane Massing, Faye Hamilton, Sandra Alton (part-time program coordinator), Kathaleen

Quinn, Marianne Wright, and Shirley Piedt


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Diploma Dialogue

Faculty member Maria Smyth participated in a panel

discussion following Jeremy Saumung’s powerful play,

Homeless. The presentation was part of MacEwan’s Health

and Community Studies Visiting Scholar Lecture Series

in January.

Smyth also co-authored a paper with B. Laskewicz and J. McGrath: Making faces: A creative approach to achieving

human services curricula objectives, submitted to The

International Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher

Education.

In November, Marianne Wright attended a conference

on trauma and addiction in Vancouver and is in the

process of developing curriculum for our Mental Health,

Trauma and Addictions course.

Peter Vogels is currently involved in a joint research

project between the Edmonton Mennonite Centre for

Newcomers and Alberta Parks. The goal of the Learning

the Language, Learning the Land project is to introduce

new Canadians to Alberta Parks by enhancing literacy

skills relating to local flora and fauna and providing

newcomers with a weekend camping experience. Vogels

is also involved with research that examines how the

program level visioning process impacts the overall

academic endeavor in a post secondary institution.

Alan Knowles continues to be involved in research

focused on e-learning in social work education and is

involved with the Interdisciplinary Health Education

Project (IHEP), a collaborative project between the

University of Alberta, NAIT, Norquest College, and

MacEwan. He coauthored a recent paper with S. King,

E. Greidanus, R. Major, T. Loverso, and M. Carbanaro: A

cross disciplinary examination of readiness for interprofessional

education, submitted to the Journal of Interprofessional Care

during the fall term. n

Across the ProvinceThe Alberta Association of Social Work Diploma Programs

had a busy fall. It met several times to work on revisions

to the Standards for Social Work Diploma Programs in

Alberta and is involved in several concurrent site reviews

for the approval and reapproval of diploma programs by the

Professional Social Work Education Board.

Red Deer CollegeSocial work faculty are again working with Central Alberta

social workers to host another Central Alberta social work

conference to be held June 13-14, 2011 at the Capri Hotel

and Conference Centre, Red Deer.

The conference is titled Moving the Margins: Rural and

Radical Social Work Challenges. Consider yourself invited

and please remember to save the dates! A call for papers

was sent out in February. Themes may include women’s

contributions to social work, environmentalism and social

justice, rural and remote practice, indigenous knowing,

teaching and doing, structural/progressive social work

practice, and others.

Mount Royal University On January 7, 2011,

Naheed Nenshi, Mayor

of Calgary, presented on

community engagement

to MRU social work

practicum students. n

Photo credit: Todd Vaughan, The

Calgary Herald

Alan Knowles is the chair of the Grant MacEwan University Social Work Program. The program serves students in the Edmonton Region through both part and full-time

studies and is currently offering an off-campus program in collaboration with Campus Alberta, Hinton. Please visit www.macewan.ca for program information.

Naheed Nenshi



The Internet is an integral component of North American life. Children and teens have never known a world

without online shopping, social networking, and infinite information. When a young person dies, the youth’s

community is likely to “meet” within hours on an online memorial site. Here they share thoughts and offer

encouraging messages to support one another. When faced with the death of a loved one, it is not surprising

that young people, as well as adults, seek support from that seemingly trusty friend, Mr. Cyberspace.

In a state of grief, people become vulnerable and less able to

make judgments that ensure safety. Children are particularly

susceptible. They are more likely targets for Internet predators

and lack the life-experience to judge whether someone they

are “talking” to is trustworthy.

Is the Internet a suitable tool for processing grief? What role

should the Internet play in supporting a grief journey? How

can we protect vulnerable people from Internet predators?

The Internet is a part of your grief-care team. It can be an

important resource to you and your clients; however, both

benefits and risks exist when it comes to using Internet

resources. For this article’s purpose, Internet resources

include social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter,

and MySpace, as well as forums such as teenhelp.org,

groww.org/forum.htm, and others. It also encompasses

informational sites, chat rooms, and message boards.

Internet support benefits

Anonymity Death is a taboo subject in North American society.

People fear being perceived as vulnerable or insane if they

express grief publicly. Internet use allows people to express

themselves and seek support without revealing identity. This

is particularly appealing to teenagers who wish to maintain a

calm facade among peers.

Accessibility Grieving people often endure sleep disturbances. Others may

experience grief bursts—surges of emotion that come on

powerfully and without warning during routine activities.

While it is not possible to predict when a grief crisis will

occur, Internet resources are always available to people with

Internet access.

Online grief support:

is this a good idea?

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By Zosia Whittaker, MSW, RSW


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“Is the Internet a suitable tool for processing grief? What role should the

Internet play in supporting a grief journey? How can we protect vulnerable

people from Internet predators?

”Addresses specific needsDifferent types of loss are grieved differently. The loss of a

child is different than the loss of a parent or grandparent.

The loss of a loved one to suicide is different than a loss that

follows a long illness. The Internet is a promising database of

supportive resources for differing losses and circumstances.

Internet support risks

Isolation from “real” social resourcesIndividuals who seek support exclusively through online

resources risk undermining the importance of a human

community. Grieving people are vulnerable to symptoms of

depression, addictions, and suicidal ideation. These may not be

detected if Internet resources are used exclusively.

Lack of privacyAnything posted on the Internet may be

seen by others. In a moment of heightened

emotion, a person may post information on

the Internet but later regret it and be unable

to remove the posting.

FraudChatting online offers no guarantee of the other person’s

credibility or integrity. Organizations moderating grief

support sites may waste resources providing support to

someone who has fabricated a grief story. Users who befriend

a person later revealed as a fraud may feel they have yet

another loss to grieve.

Predators Internet predators may pose

as grieving children and teens

to lure others into dangerous

relationships. Grieving children,

teens, and adults may be less

likely to make sound judgments

that protect their personal

identity from such predators.

Recommendations for grieving people

Do not use online resources

exclusively. Support your

grief journey within a human

community of friends, family,

and organizations.

Consider keeping a personal

journal instead of a blog. If you choose to keep a blog,

make sure it is password protected. If writing during highly

emotional times, consider drafting all blog entries in a Word

document. Proofread blog entries when you feel calmer and

post them only if you are still comfortable having the content

online.

Verify all information with a human source,

especially advice received online. Consider this

“getting a second opinion.”

Remember, forum and chat room users may not

represent themselves accurately. Avoid becoming

over-involved with other users but apply their

feedback as encouragement to build resilience.

Recommendations for grief service providers

Do assume people you care for will seek additional support

through online resources. Normalize this process. Encourage

clients and families to tell you about sites they use.

Do assume grieving children and teens are looking online

for information. Be proactive in teaching children to protect

their identity. This is an ongoing process, so check in regularly

and ask them to share their resources with you. Children are

“primed” by Internet predators. They may be very cautious

about protecting their identity on first encounters but

defenses may falter if frequently communicating online with

the same person. Continued on page 20

Zosia Whittaker


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Don’t reprimand a child for divulging personal information

online. It is an easy mistake, even for adults! Keep in mind

that the problem is the predator, not the child’s lack of self-

protection. Use the opportunity to help the child develop

better methods of protection in the future.

While it is difficult and perhaps impossible to protect children

from every Internet predator, inform families that you want

their children to be safe online. Communication with a child’s

family is important, as parents are in the best position to

monitor their child’s Internet use. Parents should develop an

online-safety plan and review it regularly.

Verify sites used by your clients. Tell your clients if you have

concerns about their safety when using these sites.

Try to avoid recommending sites to clients. Although you

might be able to recommend sites moderated by reputable

sources, you cannot control what other users say on these

sites.

Encourage clients to inform you if they have a negative

experience with a particular site. Link clients who have

been victimized online to cyber-violence resources.

Encourage clients to verify advice they receive online.

Adopt staff policies on monitoring Internet use and

protecting clients from online abuse.

Assist clients with their

grief journey by providing

human resources. Stress

that human resources

are preferable to online

resources, but the Internet

can be used to fill gaps.

If clients are not using Internet resources for grief support,

do not encourage them to change. Instead, congratulate

them on seeking human support in lieu of online support.

Tell clients you are aware of the appeal of Internet

resources and if they do begin to engage in any online

communities to keep you informed.

The Internet is a vast resource. Acknowledging its place

in our society is the first step toward employing it as a

healthy resource for families. n

Zosia Whittaker completed her Masters in Social Work at McGill University in

2009. It was here that she found a passion for working with children, teens,

and families who are grieving. She now lives in Edmonton with her husband

Michael and is a social worker at the Stollery Childrens Hospital.

Online grief supportcontinued from page 19


for your information


Another day, another crisis averted.

Alberta Union of Provincial Employees. Your working people.

The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees is proud to represent more than 75,000 Albertans who provide quality public services to the people of our province.

Among these hard-working Albertans are more than 2,500 social services workers including Child and Youth Care Counsellors, Human Services Workers, Psychology Assistants and Psychologists who work every day to make sure their clients are safe and on track to successful lives.

AUPE is committed to a society in which all Albertans can expect fair public services provided by committed, well-trained public employees. www.aupe.org



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Meet two of our conference speakers

Truth & Reconciliation Commissioner Chief Wilton Littlechild, LLBWhat events in your life led you to a career that involves advocating for

others?

Athletics and significant injuries in my life led me to a law career. As a lawyer, one’s

professional life involves advocating for others.

Can you share a story that shows how individuals or special-interest groups

can make a positive difference?

A personal story—two individuals, one illiterate in the English language and his

partner who was in her time, highly educated. These were my grandparents—

working as a partnership, my grandmother helping my grandfather with English

and contributing to his outstanding chieftainship in our community. Their positive

difference was showing the value of culture and education by working together in

leadership.

How do you think social workers can most effectively influence public social policy, when considering the conference

theme “Social Workers as Nation Builders: Speaking Truth to Power?”

I believe social work can be most effective in influencing public social policy by being motivated by a positive mental attitude.

This is a personal opinion and is not meant to attack anyone in this necessary profession of society. “Speaking truth to power,”

in my view, gives us the best chance to be nation builders. It takes the same energy to destroy a nation as it does to build a

Wilton Littlechild

By Joan Marie Galat, Advocate Editor

Joan Marie Galat


feature article


nation. Anyone can tear down a nation but it takes a real leader to build a nation. Social workers, collectively because of the

challenging issues they work with, have the unique opportunity on a daily basis to use energy to build a stronger and more

inclusive nation.

Former Calgary alderman Joe Ceci, MSW, RSW

What events in your life led you to a career that involves advocating for

others?

Growing up in a first-generation Italian family and neighborhood provided both a

supportive atmosphere to learn and connect with others, but also a lesson in com-

munity building.

My parents arrived as children and spoke both English and Italian. My mother

served as a local information and referral source, helping older or newer Italians

to fill out forms, and my dad would accompany people to government offices.

Around the kitchen table, both she and my father helped newcomers understand

the system.

Their example made me want to learn more about how to help people and assist

them in meeting their goals in life.

Can you share a story that shows how individuals or special-interest groups

can make a positive difference?

Years ago as a community development worker, I was working on a one-to-one

basis with numerous low-income single mothers in the community. It seemed that we could do more together than apart, so

we organized a series of workshops that morphed into an ongoing support network.

The women organized educational opportunities for themselves and their kids, addressing their collective support needs as a

group. This led many of the women into post-secondary schooling and other career training. Together they made a positive

difference for each other and their families.

Most recently I ran into the grown son of one of the original group—now a student at Mount Royal University.

How do you think social workers can most effectively influence public social policy, when considering the conference

theme “Social Workers as Nation Builders: Speaking Truth to Power?”

Because of their roles in society, social workers have knowledge that should and can make a difference in the formulation

of public social policy. Having knowledge and knowing how to influence policy are not the same thing. Advocacy skills are

critical in positively influencing social policies and programs, but so is simple political engagement. n

Joan Marie Galat provides writing, editing, and business training solutions. Visit www.joangalat.com for information on MoonDot Media.

Joe Ceci

Joan Marie Galat


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Chris Sunderland

You may know this mental health therapist and sessional instructor as Chris

Sunderland, MSW, RSW, but members of the Blood Tribe in southern Alberta

call him I,kina,pi,tapi. The name, which means kind, caring, harmonious

person, reflects respect for Sunderland’s contribution at Red Crow College on

the Blood Reserve.


Joan Marie Galat

A day in the life...

Long before 2003, when Elder Bruce Wolf Child proclaimed

his new name at the annual Blood Tribe Sundance,

Sunderland shared feeling of kinship with the Blood people.

For the past 10 years he has been spending Tuesday evenings

at Red Crow College as a sessional instructor in the general

arts and science faculty.

“Education is one of the ways students can be empowered to

make changes and see things from different perspectives,” says

Sunderland. “Education is one of the ways out of some of the

problems on the reserve.”

Sunderland describes his experience at Red Crow as front

line. “Our cultural differences allow us to explore issues

from difference perspectives. I feel we have a rapport and

can get personal. Because of that, there’s a bond that keeps

me coming back. If I didn’t have a sense it was making a

difference, I wouldn’t do it.”

Sunderland’s skills are also essential in his role as a mental

health therapist with Alberta Health Services. For the past

three years, Thursday mornings have been spent running

the Strategic Group for Lifestyle and Weight Management.

About 12 people attend group therapy sessions for those

struggling with obesity

and emotional eating

issues.

“Some eat for reasons

other than being hungry.

Food provides a mood

altering experience,” says Sunderland. “Overeating can be

about other things going on—celebration, frustration, anger,

or the desire to numb away feelings. We look at what other

things might be going on to cause this ongoing problem.”

Sunderland uses the materials of Irvin Yalom as a therapeutic

base to help participants cope with weight management

issues. His role is to ask questions to keep discussion active.

Each session starts with a review. “How did last week’s

feedback work out? Did you have any struggles or triumphs?”

Occasionally Sunderland uses a movie clip or story as a

conversation catalyst. At one session, attendees watched a cut

from the movie Ordinary People. It revealed an angry, guilt-

ridden, young man losing his temper with his counselor.

“People see the story, generalize it to their own situation, and

Chris Sunderland


feature article


start talking about their issues,” he says.

The movie cut led one woman to talk about her relationship

with her husband. She wanted to explore whether the anger

she feels toward him is fair. Another participant was interested

in the character’s relationship with the counselor. She

wondered if she could feel safe enough to truly reveal her

feelings with someone.

“We don’t have problems with down time,” says Sunderland.

“Group therapy enables people to counsel and be honest

with one another. Two hours go quickly.”

One morning, an attendee shared her weight loss experience.

Despite losing a lot of weight, she felt frustrated at reaching

a plateau and had to motivate herself to continue. “She’s an

example of perseverance and staying with the process,” says

Sunderland. “It’s good for other group members to hear and

see her story unfold. There’s a sense of universality that you’re

not alone.”

Sunderland encourages group members to be aware of the

cycle of addiction—preoccupation, rituals, acting out, and

pain. He wants clients to recognize their own behavior

patterns. “We talk about how to disrupt rituals and the pain

they cause. We talk about stimulus, response, and the space in

between where you have time to choose a different response.”

“I like that it’s in the moment, mindful, and dynamic, and

that people are talking about their lives and wanting to make

them different,” says Sunderland. “What’s upsetting is when

people stop coming before they’ve accomplished their goals.”

Sunderland’s practice also involves community development.

He chairs the local inter-agency committee that sometimes

runs joint projects with members. One of these ventures is a

soup kitchen that provides lunch for about 60 people daily

throughout the winter. Churches, schools, and inter-agency

committees chip in.

“Lots of people in the community get an opportunity to

participate,” says Sunderland. “This provides an opportunity

for people to go on the reserve and this takes away the

division of cultures generated by fears. What attracts me to

community work is that it is human to human—making a

connection.”

Sunderland also provides individual, couple, and family

counseling at the community mental health clinic. His

practice is part of a small clinic in Cardston, on a rural team

out of the Lethbridge Region. Every day brings different

people struggling with a variety of concerns and challenges.

“In school we learned a lot about being a generalist and

looking at things from a systemic point of view—how

environment and the person interact with one another. A lot

of what I do is with how a person perceives the world and

how the environment impacts the individual, and vice versa.”

Sunderland aims to try to see the world the way clients do.

“You listen and validate their experience. For a lot of people,

to be heard and validated is huge. My role is to provide a

place where they can explore their world. I’m not there to fix

those things. I’m there to hear, validate, and explore different

options with them. It’s very much a shared thing.”

Sunderland has worked in mental health since obtaining his

master’s in social work at the University of Calgary in 1989.

Before that, he spent three years as an undergraduate at

Brigham Young University and two years at Grant MacEwan

College.

“I was drawn to counseling, and the work that was available

was in mental health. I really enjoy it because I can respond

to so many different things.”

Whether you know him as Chris Sunderland or I,kina,pi,tapi,

this social worker has clearly found work to fit his kind,

caring, and harmonious style. n

Joan Marie Galat provides writing, editing, and business training solutions. Visit

www.joangalat.com for information on MoonDot Media.

Joan Marie Galat

“My role is to provide a place where [my clients] can explore their world. I’m not there

to fix those things. I’m there to hear, validate, and explore different options with them.

”



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By Chris Sunderland, MSW, RSW

Chris Sunderland and friend

26 The Advocate • Winter 2010

International social work

reinforces idealsA social worker recently asked me

about my trips to Haiti. During our

conversation she said, “I’d love

to do something like that, but

I’m a social worker.” I reminded

her, “I’m a social worker too and

we have a viable role to play in

providing post-trauma counselling

on an international level.”

Last May, I traveled from Cardston

to Haiti with a group of health care

professionals. Our goal was to provide

medical and counselling services to

the people impacted by last year’s 7.0

magnitude earthquake. While there, we

met a Haitian pastor who suggested a

way we could continue to help from

Canada.

Haitian Refugee Village in the Dominican Republic. “We took hygiene kits and clothing, etc. to this village of

220. I had been here before on a previous visit when Rosevelt brought me here—it is not far from his home. I

was so struck by their poverty and hoped that we might be able to do something. There is so much more that

they need and I hope we can keep finding ways to offer our little bits of service—small things but perhaps

meaningful to those who receive them.” — Deanna Sykes

Back to Haiti


feature article


Chris Sunderland and friend

Continued on page 28

“Over several months, our group raised more than $10,000 for the orphanage. A local

women’s group put together 30 backpacks filled with school supplies.

”

Pastor Gaetan showed us pictures of thirty orphans in his care and told us $350 Canadian dollars would educate a child for

one year. He asked us to help him start a school for these children. We agreed to try.

Once home, we approached friends and some area schools

to ask if they would like to sponsor a child. Because people

wanted to help, we did not find it difficult to raise the money.

Some schools were very creative with fundraising ideas. The

Hill Spring School collected $1,700 in a “break a school rule

for a toonie” drive. Students could choose to break one of

three rules: wear a hat in school, chew gum in class, or eat

during class. The school also held a bottle drive, bake sale, and

carnival.

Over several months, our group raised more than $10,000

for the orphanage. A local women’s group put together 30

backpacks filled with school supplies. Last fall, the school

officially opened. It is called Yahve Shamma, which means

“God is here.”

Public water. The locals told us it was safe to drink. We didn’t risk it.

The cholera clinic at Beraca hospital. The hospital was bigger than this but the

photo gives you an idea of what it was like.

International Aid Web

Resources healinghandsforhaiti.org

heroholiday.absolute.org

volunteerinternational.org


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HaitiContinued from page 27

The pastor’s home is on the school

compound but he and his family

sleep in tents. They do not trust the

ceiling in their home since last year’s

earthquake. The earthquake left many

people feeling that the buildings

betrayed them. In fact, many continue

to live in tents and seem okay with

that. We should remember they live

under a Caribbean sun and like being

outside.

Back to HaitiIn November 2010, three of us

returned to Haiti. We brought 24

pieces of luggage, flown by WestJet for

free. Upon arriving in Port-Au-Prince

in early evening, the city seemed

familiar but unusually quiet. Members

of an on organization called “Healing

Hands for Haiti” picked us up at

the airport and provided food and lodging during our time

in the city. Our stay was comfortable and safe.

Meeting the children we sponsored, who’d I only seen in

photographs, was an incredible moment. The children were

dressed in school uniforms bought with money we had

collected and donated earlier in the year. They loved their

backpacks and did not want to take them off. The pleasure

in their faces was worth the stress of getting to Haiti with so

much luggage, as well as in the midst of their election—held

the day before we arrived.

The school consisted of tent rooms and a dirt floor. It

impressed me to see a newly hired school teacher instruct the

children wearing high heel shoes. Imagine a class in a tent, on

a dirt floor, and the teacher dressed elegantly. The high heels

seemed symbolic of Haitian pride and dignity; a sign of hope

and a better future.

The team at the Beraca Hospital in the cholera clinic. From left to right: our translator, Rosevelt, Les Sykes,

Deanna Sykes, Wilson—our leader at the cholera clinic—and Chris Sunderland.

The Cholera Epidemic The second part of our trip involved work at a cholera

hospital in Port-de-Paix, on the northern coast where

the cholera epidemic is most acute. We traveled on a six-

passenger aircraft provided by Mission Aviation Fellowship.

Before our arrival, I worried about what to expect. We knew

the hospital would be very primitive, but I didn’t know a lot

about the disease.

At this point, political unrest was causing moments of

genuine fear. We had intended to drive from the Dominican

Republic into Haiti but heard election protestors were

burning tires at the Haitian border. Luckily, we were able

to avoid the road border by flying from Santo Domingo to

Port-au-Prince.

Our interpreter, Rosevelt, had never flown before. He was

nervous and rightly so! The landing airstrip was a gravel road

in the middle of the city. I watched people riding donkeys

along the runway.


feature article


SODISAround the world, more than 4000 die from the effects of diarrhea each day. Solar Water Disinfection (SODIS) is an easy way to disinfect drinking water using the sun’s ultra-violet radiation to kill pathogens. Transparent bottles holding less than three litres of water are placed horizontally on a reflective surface. Extreme contamination levels can be rendered harmless by leaving the bottles in the sun for six hours, or longer, when clouds cover the sky. Visit www.sodis.ch to see how SODIS works.

The cholera hospital felt like “the belly of Hell.” I’ve never

seen people so sick and in such crude circumstances. Our

patients were not allowed inside the hospital building, perhaps

because of fear. They were housed on cots under tarps and

inside tents on the hospital’s dirt grounds.

Many lacked basic information about cholera. My job was to

visit patients and educate them on universal precautions. We

brought hygiene kits to give out but were told people would

not know what to do with them—for example, how to use

deodorant.

The Haitian nurses worked tirelessly but didn’t seem to be

educating patients. They were probably preoccupied with

the volume of people to care for. Nurses dressed as though

going into surgery or treating an airborne disease. They wore

masks, full-body gowns, and footwear covers. In my view, this

clothing distanced caregivers from patients, many who must

have already felt alone and afraid. I realized I could best help

by trying to relieve fear and connect individually with the ill

and their families.

With Rosevelt’s help, I explained the importance of hand

washing and boiling water. I stressed that cholera is not an

airborne disease but a result of ingesting contaminated water.

It felt good to see how this information brought relief to

many of the people I spoke with. After visiting more than

100 patients in three days, it was great to see some people’s

health improve. The end of the third day felt like “the belly

of resilience.”

One morning saw us travel by truck to a helping mission

in Saint Louis. The six-mile trip took an hour on the rough

roads. Along the way, we saw four men carrying a gravely

ill woman on an iron bed. They were walking to the Port-

de-Paix hospital. Sweat dripped from the exhausted men’s

faces. We put the woman and her bed in the back of the

truck. The four men joined her and we drove to the hospital.

Fortunately, her cholera was easily treated with IV and

rehydration. By noon that day, the woman could sit up in bed.

A trip like this is life changing. I feel added upon. I came

home with a greater appreciation of Canada—a land where

votes count and the political system is more organized. Each

trip leaves me thankful for clean water, decent roads, secure

infrastructure, good education, and one of the best health care

systems in the world.

Helping in Haiti made me grateful for my profession and

reminded me why I first entered social work. It reinforced

that the values our profession esteems in community

development and public good are still important to me. Young

and idealistic when I entered social work, I don’t know that

I visited these ideals often enough, once busy with a daily

agenda.

When you hear of helping teams being organized, consider

offering your services. Social workers need to recognize their

powerful potential to provide assistance to those that suffer

when catastrophic events occur. n

Chris Sunderland is a mental health therapist at the Cardston Mental Health Clinic

and a sessional instructor at Red Crow College on the Blood Reserve. He can be

contacted at [email protected] or 403-653-5113.

“When you hear of helping teams being organized, consider offering your services.

”



feat

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members enhance council


Lynne Davies (BScN, MEd) and Ralph Westwood (Dip Mental Deficiency Nursing, BEd, MEd)

have served as public members on ACSW council since 2003. As individuals outside the social

work profession, volunteer public members bring varied backgrounds to council. Their role is to

represent public interests by providing the college with viewpoints from outside the profession.

Davies is a former registered nurse and nursing professor, with extensive volunteer involvement supplementing her

professional practice. Westwood came to the ACSW council with a background encompassing work with mentally

handicapped people, private consulting with colleges, technical institutes, and universities on proposals and funding

for various health-occupation programs, and the role of program director with Social Services and Advanced

Education.

As ACSW council sets its own education, competence, license,

and practice requirements, the experience of both public

members proved beneficial. “We help to ensure there are

appropriate professional standards for registration, practice, and

continuing competence,” says Westwood. “A self-regulating

occupation must have transparency.”

Under the Health Professions Act, Davies and Westwood were

placed on an Alberta government “approved list” of candidates

before they could be invited by ACSW to sit on council.

ACSW council reviews approved members’ credentials, then

chooses individuals with experience that will best serve the

college. The provincial government appoints public members

to help ensure the profession is governed in a manner that

provides public protection. The three-year appointments can Lynne Davies and Ralph Westwood


feature article


be renewed only once—with a goal to match the need for

experience with the need for new perspectives.

Along with the rest of council, Davies and Westwood worked

on regulation and social justice issues ranging from worker

competence and income disparity to child protection.

Davies noted that public members fully participate in

policy, decision making, complaint, and discipline processes.

Full voting members, they attend council and committee

meetings. The last seven years have seen Davies and Westwood

volunteer their time to support work on the code of ethics

and standards of practice, as well as promote the social work

profession and influence social policy and development.

“Public members help ensure there is an opportunity to

consider how decisions affect the clients and public in

general,” says Davies. “We provide a balance between the

professional services offered to the membership and the

protection of the public.”

When public members were first appointed in 2003, council

sometimes wondered about their role and how much help

they would be. “It was a time for both public and professional

members to get to know and understand each other,” recalls

Westwood. “Members of the profession wondered if we had

political agendas or were friends of the government. I was

never a card-carrying member of any political party. When

putting my name forward, I wondered if it was a requirement.

I was pleasantly surprised when it was not.” Likewise, Davies

came with no political agenda.

As the longest serving council members, Westwood and

Davies have volunteered under four presidents and with

seven councils. Davies and Westwood also represented ACSW

on Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) committees.

Davies sat on the Regulations and Standards Committee and

Westwood on the Finance Committee. Both attended ASWB

meetings at headquarters in Virginia.

Public members attend conferences and take part in the same

in-service and professional training opportunities as other

members. These experiences expand their knowledge of the

profession and help them better understand the challenges

social workers face. Both indicated a personal highlight was a

change in their perception in the role of social workers and

the many diverse environments in which they work.

“When I used to be a program director, I employed social

workers and found most to be very open-minded, helpful,

and caring. They are those things, but more too. On council,

I learned, social workers can also be very assertive and

persistent in supporting causes they strongly believe in.”

Westwood’s participation provided first-hand observation

of how ideals that draw people to social work can conflict

with how systems provide services, within the limits imposed

by funding and policy. “It challenges some of their initial

enthusiasm,” notes Westwood. “Often in social work, people

are drawn to changing society and improving the lives of

people in difficult circumstances, but most jobs they’re drawn

to are offered by governments and large agencies.

“The parameters make it difficult to be an idealistic social

worker,” he says. “That was a bit of revelation. I am more

empathetic about the challenges social workers face.”

Davies agrees “I became better informed about social work

professionals and the issues before them.”

Looking back at the last seven years, Davies describes the

council as “very dedicated members of their profession, really

committed to maintaining the balance between the regulatory

responsibilities and membership services.”

Westwood agrees. He also notes that when public members

are eager to participate, they’re encouraged. He hopes

“council will expand the process of assigning responsibilities

to all members and annually review their progress and where

improvements can be made.”

Soon to be replaced with new public members, Davies and

Westwood will bring their skill sets to other councils. They

are pleased to have been part of ACSW and engaged in a

process that works to produce positive change. Both have very

fond memories of their experience. n

Joan Marie Galat provides writing, editing, and business training solutions. Visit

www.joangalat.com for information on MoonDot Media.

“We provide a balance between the professional services offered to the membership and the protection of the public.

”


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Joy Cohen, BPA-HS, RSWBackup Human Services Staffing Coverage in Calgary

Tel: (403) 244-8771 Email: [email protected]

· Mat Leave/ Vacation/ Illness coverage

· Reasonable rates and excellent references

· Google “Joy Cohen + Calgary” for complete LinkedIn profile

For your informationPLEASE NOTE: For more listings, please see “Calendar of Events” at: www.acsw.ab.ca/calendar_of_events

Free Symposium Improving Access to Care for Francophone Albertans and Other Linguistic Minorities Monday, March 28, 2011

Primary Location: Bernard Snell Hall, U

of A Hospital, Edmonton. 9:00 to 16:00

(lunch provided)

Telehealth Site: Room 1003, Southport,

Calgary .

To register: email:

reducing.disparities@

albertahealthservices.ca

or call (780) 908-8395. 100th Anniversary Reunion Weekend Centennial Centre for Mental Health and Brain Injury July 29 - 31, 2011

In honour of the 100th anniversary of the opening of The Centennial Centre for Mental

Health and Brain Injury (formerly Alberta Hospital Ponoka), a reunion for current and

former staff has been planned for July 29 - 31, 2011.

If you are interested in more information or have any questions,

please direct them to: [email protected] or visit

http://100yearsofcaring-reunionweekend.weebly.com

PIA’s 5th Annual Advocacy Conference Mobilizing for a Better Alberta: Strong Communities, Public Solutions March 31 - April 2, 2011, Chateau Louis Conference Centre, Edmonton AB

Thursday March 31, 7 PM: Keynote Presentation by Dr. Dennis Shirley & Reception

Friday April 1 at 7:30 PM: April Fool’s Fun(d) Night, an evening of socializing and

camaraderie.

For more information, visit our website www.pialberta.org or email the PIA Office at

[email protected] or call 780 420-0471.


Category “A” Home Studies

Spir it at Work and More

Complete category “A” home studies at your own pace and earn CEUs.

Rethinking Your Work: How to Create Spirit at Work

The How of Happiness: The Research and Strategies Behind Happiness

www.kaizensolutions.org/

distancelearning.htm

780.459.2588 [email protected]

Evidence-‐based courses to enhance

spirit at work – that sense we are fully engaged in and energized by our work. Check back as we add new home studies

and contact us for onsite seminars.

Val Kinjerski, MSW, PhD, RSW

Category “A” Home Studies

Spir it at Work and More

Complete category “A” home studies at your own pace and earn CEUs.

Rethinking Your Work: How to Create Spirit at Work

The How of Happiness: The Research and Strategies Behind Happiness

www.kaizensolutions.org/

distancelearning.htm

780.459.2588 [email protected]

Evidence-‐based courses to enhance

spirit at work – that sense we are fully engaged in and energized by our work. Check back as we add new home studies

and contact us for onsite seminars.

Val Kinjerski, MSW, PhD, RSW

Kaizen Solutions




Dynamic Spin Release Training DSR Level 1 Training April 8 & 9, 2011 DSR Practitioner Training April 10, 2011 Edmonton Hotel & Convention Centre, Edmonton, AB

Created by Kris Hallbom and Tim Hallbom, Dynamic Spin Release™ is an extraordinary approach consisting of several techniques and

processes that allow users to release their negative thought patterns, limiting beliefs and physical pain in as little as eight minutes. For more

information on Dynamic Spin Release (DSR) visit their website.

For more information, call 780-352-0945. To register or pay online visit www.zaheennanji.com/workshop-information.html.

Self-care audio CD series Deep Powerful Change featuring registered psychologist Gwen Randall-Young, MEd

Over 40 self-care titles as well as 10 interview-style CD titles focused on relationships. The method of delivery is guided visualization/

gentle hypnosis. The CDs offer a relaxing overall experience, essentially an effective and inexpensive therapy session with the expertise of an

accomplished psychologist.

For more information or to listen to sound clips of the series, visit www.gwen.ca Sample CD of your choice is available on request.

Call toll free 1-888-242-4936 or email orders to [email protected].

Medical office space will be available from April 2011Superb location on the banks of the Bow River with stunning views of the river and local parks. The office is within a few minutes’ drive to the Foothills Medical Center, Health Sciences Center, The Alberta Children’s Hospital and The University of Calgary as well as being on a major bus route.

The office space is suitable for Psychiatrists (Child and Adult), Psychotherapists, Psychologists and some Paediatric sub-specialties. The premises have recently been renovated.

For further information please contact:

Gillian (Business Manager) at 403-571-5160 or [email protected]

or Dr. Jennifer Fisher at Jennifer.fisher@

albertahealthservices.ca



for

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For your information


3.65 inches: approximately 9 cm width

3.25 inches: approximately 8 cm height

Subject: Advertisement for The Advocate

Submitted: July 9, 2010 for July 15 deadline

Font: Calibri (Body)

Size: 11

Murray J. Armstrong, MSW, RSW

Armstrongs’ Counselling Services Centre 10027 – 166 St., Edmonton, AB T5P 4Y1

(780) 444.4399

http://ArmstrongsCounselling.com email: [email protected]

Individual, Martial, Family & Group Therapy

Specializing in Men’s Issues

40 + years of utilizing traditional and alternative

Therapeutic Methods

Rental of 2nd Floor Office and Training Room available

A Rural Perspective on Family Violence Conference St. Joseph’s Parish Hall, 5540 Mink Creek Road, Whitecourt, AB April 13th and 14th, 2011

Walk-in registrations accepted at Allan & Jean Millar Centre, 58

Sunset Blvd, or call 780-778-6300 (Dayna Williams).

By mail: Box 509, Whitecourt, AB T7S 1N6

By Fax: 780-706-2483.

For further conference information, please contact:

Vicky Birkbeck, Whitecourt Family Violence Research and Project

Consultant:

[email protected]

Registration Deadline: March 15, 2011.

Online Education for Health Professionals• MasterofHealthStudies

• MasterofNursing - ANP: Primary Health Care - Generalist

www.athabascau.ca/cnhs

CENTRE FOR NURSING AND HEALTH STUDIES

Advance online!a c c e s s i b l e • f l e x i b l e • a c h i e v a b l e

ApplicationDeadline:PMD:ANP & MN:ANP - December 1, MHS & MN: GEN - March 1





2011 PUBLIC WORKSHOPS IN ALBERTA

1.204.452.9199 [email protected] www.ctrinstitute.com

Helping Organizations with issues of Crisis and Trauma

De-escalating Potentially Violent SituationsEdmonton: March 17-18, 2011; Calgary: March 24-25, 2011

This workshop is designed to teach people to de-escalate potentially violent situations through assertiveness and interpersonal communication. Participants will leave the workshop with a clear understanding of how to assess the potential for violence and respond with a diverse set of interpersonal tools and strategies designed to defuse potentially violent situations.

Motivating Change-Strategies for Approaching Resistance

Calgary: April 20-21, 2011; Edmonton: April 26-27, 2011Helping professionals regularly encounter challenging forms of resistance in their clients, and feel unable to respond in an effective way. Drawing from the approaches of Motivational Interviewing, Positive Discipline and Internal Family Systems Model, this experiential workshop will equip helping professionals with an enhanced style and new strategies that will strengthen their therapeutic relationships and maximize potential for motivating change.

Our workshops have been formally approved by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) www.aswb.ca.Continuing Education Credits - Category A

Mental Illness - Awareness and SupportEdmonton: May 18, 2011; Calgary: May 19, 2011

While common, understanding the signs and symptoms related to mental illness can be confusing and overwhelming. This workshop will give participants a general overview of common adult mental illnesses and their symptoms, causes and treatment. The final portion of the workshop explores ways of providing initial support and how to acess professional help for people struggling with mental illness.

Counselling Skills-An Introduction and Overview

Edmonton: June 22-24, 2011This introductory workshop is designed for those new to counselling or those wishing to enhance their general helping skills. The workshop provides an opportunity to acquire basic communication skills and practical strategies to help people. Using a problem-solving model, participants will learn how to work with clients to identify issues and implement plans and activities to address areas of concern.

For your informationContinued from page 34


Elder Planning Counsellor Designation Program May 2 - 5, 2011, Business Career College, Calgary AB

Offered in partnership with the Canadian Initiative for Elder Planning

Studies (CIEPS), this is a credit course, certificate program.

For more information, email: penny.watt@businesscareercollege.

com at or call 1-877-994-9019 or visit www.businesscareercollege.

com.

Victims of Homicide, Western Canadian Conference May 5-6, 2011, Chateau Louis Conference Centre, Edmonton AB

This conference will bring together the “first response” professionals,

volunteers, family members and individuals from across Western

Canada to explore the needs and issues of families who have been

“touched by murder.”

For more information, email: [email protected] or call

780-485-5955 or visit : www.vohconference.ca

Childhoods Conference Mapping the Landscapes of Childhood May 5 - 7, 2011 University of Lethbridge

For more information on this 3-day, multi-disciplinary, international

conference on childhood, see:

www.uleth.ca/conreg/childhoods/content/program 12th

Central Alberta Social Work Conference Moving the Margins: Rural and Radical Social Work Challenges June 13 & 14, 2011, Capri Hotel, Red Deer, AB

For more information:

Central Alberta Social Work Conference

Box 6128, Innisfail, Alberta T4G 1S8

or call Evelyn at 403-340-7587.


for

your

info

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For your information


Canadian Collaborative Mental Health Care Conference Charting a New Course to Better Care: Stronger Links Between Consumers, Families and Health Care Providers June 23-25, 2011, Halifax, Nova Scotia

Visit our website, www.shared-care.ca for developing information

about the conference.

If you have any questions, please e-mail

[email protected] or phone 902-482-0531.

International Conference of Mindfulness With Youth Helping Children (K-12) Develop Mindful Awareness Inside the Classroom and Out. July 15-17, 2011, Banff Centre, Banff AB

Join leaders in this emerging field in the spectacular setting of Banff

National Park as we explore and discuss the practice, applications,

and teaching of mindfulness to youth across a variety of settings,

and—fundamental to this practice—develop and deepen our own

relationship with mindfulness awareness and practice.

Faculty include Dan Siegel, MD (keynote speaker), Gina Biegel

(MBSR-T), Susan Kaiser Greenland (The Mindful Child), Randye Semple

(MBCT-C), and others.

For more information, call 780-919-0693

or visit www.mindfulnessinstitute.ca

The John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights is hosting the 2011 Global Youth Assembly July 27 -30, 2011, in Edmonton AB

Nearly 1000 youth and young professionals will explore the theme Our

World. Our Water.

Through art, music, and other media, the GYA will expose water as a

critical issue for everyone, everywhere.

Visit our website www.youthassembly.ca for more information.




TRAC is a two-day program for health professionals.

leARn how to talk with your patients and clients about quitting tobacco.

double their chances of success.

sAve lives.

Register now!780-422-1350 [email protected]

TRAC sessions are available throughout Alberta.

FRee and ACCRediTed professional development.

Help people quit tobacco.

PRoFessionAl develoPmenT

TRAC

TRAC is a two-day program for AHS health professionals.

leARn how to talk with your patients and clients about quitting tobacco.

double their chances of success.

sAve lives.

Register now!780-422-1350 [email protected]

TRAC sessions are available throughout Alberta.

FRee professional development.

Help people quit tobacco.

PRoFessionAl develoPmenT

TRAC

PEAK Home Ownership Program for Calgarians

The PEAK Home Ownership Program assists hard working Calgarians

who may need a “hand up” to qualify for a mortgage.

ACSW members in Calgary may qualify for the PEAK Program. Our

brochure and detailed program information are available on

our website, www.peakcalgary.ca.

The PEAK Home Ownership Program assists home buyers with a

re-payable down payment and mortgage assistance for the first five

years of the program.

Email [email protected] or call 403-253-9393.

2011 World Mental Health Congress of the World Federation for Mental Health African Footprint in Global Mental Health October 17 - 21, 2011, Cape Town, South Africa

To register online visit https://events.confco.co.za/ei/

cm.esp?id=203&pageid=_3580OC9A0

Local Conference Secretariat

Tjiger Park 3, Office 103

Willie van Schoor Avenue

Bellville, Cape Town

South Africa

7530

Tel: +27 21 914 2751

Fax: +27 21 914 5493

[email protected]




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May 1 is the deadline for Fall 2011 BSW admission.We are currently processing applications. APPLY EARLY!Find out more at fsw.ucalgary.ca

We all need something to reach towards.Further your social work career with the University of Calgary.

We all need something to reach towards.Further your social work career with the University of Calgary.




ACSW’s Partners in Advocacy

Alberta Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental

Health

www.aamimh.ca

Edmonton Social Planning Council

www.edmontonsocialplanning.ca

Friends of Medicare

www.friendsofmedicare.org

Greater Edmonton Alliance

www.greateredmontonalliance.com

Public Interest Alberta

www.pialberta.org

Parkland Institute

www.ualberta.ca/parkland


Remember to keep current between Advocate editions

with regular visits to www.acsw.ab.ca where you will find

news updates, advocacy projects, social work resources,

conference information, and much more.

New International Social Work Opportunities Volunteer positions with NGOabroad

NGOabroad is a unique service that provides frugal, customized

international volunteer options and helps people enter international

humanitarian work.

We need volunteers in Sri Lanka, Nepal, Uganda, Sierra Leone, Costa

Rica, Peru, Bolivia, Ghana, and Kenya

These are volunteer positions. (But we also help people into

international careers.) Applications accepted on a rolling basis. No

end date.

Interested? Please READ the NGOabroad website

www.ngoabroad.com then answer questionnaire and embed with

resume and email to [email protected].

International Social Service Conference 2012 ISS International Conference: The Growing Wave of Human Migration: Its Impact on the Design and Delivery of Social Services Worldwide May 23 to 25, 2012 Banff Centre, Banff AB

The Universities of Calgary and Maryland (Faculties of Social Work)

are working with ISS to put on the conference. ISS Canada is proud

to be hosting this event. We feel there will be some unique learning

opportunities and, certainly, a chance to meet social workers from

around the world.

Visit www.issc-ssic.ca.

Memorial Society of Edmonton and District provides assistance with funeral services.

For more information please contact 780-944-0196 or

[email protected] or visit

www.memorialsocietyedmonton.ca

World Conference on Social Work and Social Development Social Welfare, Social Work and Social Development: Policy Options for a Sustainable Future July 9 - 12, 2012 Stockholm, Sweden

The Joint Biennial World Conference of the International Association

of Schools of Social Work, the International Council on Social Welfare

and the International Federation of Social Workers in cooperation

with Swedish partners is set for Stockholm, Sweden in 2012.

The theme is tentative.

Information will be updated at:

www.ifsw.org/en/p38001680.html?force_folder=038000083. n

10%

Cert no. SW-COC-002959


PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40050109RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TOALBERTA COLLEGE OF SOCIAL WORKERS550 10707 100 AVE NWEDMONTON AB T5J 3M1


in t

he n

ews

Thanks to ACSW 2011 Conference sponsors for their generous donations!

TD Meloche Monnex

University of Calgary

AUPE

United Way - Alberta Capital Region

CUPE

Health Sciences Association of Alberta

Community Natural Foods


Documents

April 28 - 30, 2011 Social Workers as ... - Home Page - ACSW · Volume 36, Issue 1, spring 2011. . Feature story: International social work reinforces ideals. page 26 Online grief