Making Tomorrow Better - A Letter From the CEO

Dear Friend, 

In March we celebrate lots of remarkable things: it is Women’s History Month and Social Work Month! As a social worker, I am grateful for the chance to reflect on this work and that of my colleagues. Every day I witness our team using care and compassion to create stability for our neighbors.  This is not just the role of social workers, but the communal work of the entire IW community. While some days are more challenging than others, there is inspiration too. 

Last month, our emergency shelter program helped dozens of clients move out of IW shelters and into individual housing. This incredible, complex feat was accomplished through the dedication of many IW staff members, collaborating with our partners within the county and local landlords who support the progress of our clients. It is an amazing thing to see so many moving pieces come together to ensure our clients have a chance to advance along their personal journeys towards stability. This is just one example of the inspirational change happening daily in this county.  

Last month our Faith and Community Partnerships team hosted the 1st Annual IW Faith and Community Partnerships Community Service Awards Brunch. The event brought together hundreds of community members, advocates, faith leaders and other organizations supporting our neighbors. It was inspiring to see everyone come together to both celebrate the work and remember where we are going. Our partners at the Greater Washington Community Foundation led an incredible forum on Economic Justice. I witnessed a crucial discussion with passionate engagement from everyone participating. It was a wonderful reminder of how caring this community is, and reinforced the hope that we are actively making change.  

I recognize that social service work is not easy, and that professionalism and compassion can sometimes feel at odds with one another. But I am so proud of the care and drive for just and equitable solutions that I see every day. While I have a special place in my heart for social workers, everyone has something to offer as we strive to live up to our mission's promise.  I know that if we continue to work together, tomorrow can be better than yesterday.  

Courtney Hall, CEO