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Genice Morton, LSW, MSW, CPM (she/her)
Clinical Case Manager, My Brother's Keeper (Open Arms Health Care Center)
Years as an ANAC member: 2.5
What does social work month mean to you?
For over 28 years, social work has been more than just my profession. Social work has been my purpose, my passion, and my unwavering commitment to kindness and uplifting those in need. Social work is not just about offering assistance, it is about being present, and walking alongside individuals, families, and communities through life’s most difficult moments.
At its heart, social work is about being a light for those who feel lost. It is sitting beside someone in pain, offering hope when they feel hopeless, and reminding them of their strength when they can’t see it themselves. Social work is the quiet, yet powerful work of advocacy; challenging injustice, dismantling systemic barriers, and ensuring that every individual is treated with dignity and respect.
In celebration of "Social Work Month," it is essential to reaffirm the notion that no individual is alone. Assistance is always accessible, and kindness possesses the power to transform lives.
Why did you join the fight to end HIV/AIDS?
The fight to end HIV/AIDS is not just a cause, but a call to justice with a demand for health equity, and a relentless pursuit of a world where no one suffers in silence or faces stigma. I joined this fight because I believe that every person, regardless of their background, deserves access to healthcare and support.
For too long, HIV/AIDS has taken lives, shattered families, and carried an unjust burden of shame and misinformation. I refuse to accept a reality in which individuals suffer in silence, where misinformation renders communities vulnerable, and where access to treatment is regarded as a privilege rather than a fundamental right.
Above all, I joined this fight for the people; for those living with HIV, for those we have lost, and for the generations to come who deserve a world free from fear and discrimination. Until that world becomes a reality, I will continue to advocate for a future in which education, prevention, and treatment are universally accessible, rather than restricted to specific geographic locations or economic demographics.
What words of wisdom might you pass on to others entering the field?
To those stepping into the world of social work, welcome to a profession that will challenge you, transform you, and fill your heart in ways you never imagined. This journey is not just about what you will do, but about who you become. You will meet people in their most vulnerable moments. They will trust you with their stories, fears, and dreams. Listen with your whole heart, because your presence alone can be a source of healing.
There will be days when the weight of this work feels heavy. On those days, remember why you started. Find strength in the small victories, such as the smile of a child, the relief in a parent’s eyes, the gratitude of someone who finally feels heard. Change doesn’t always come in grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s in the quiet moments of compassion.
Never forget that self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity. You cannot pour from an empty cup. Take time to rest, reflect, and nourish your own spirit so you can continue to show up for others. Lean on your colleagues, seek guidance, and never stop learning. This work is not meant to be done alone. You are part of a community of devoted advocates and changemakers. Most of all, know that what you do matters. Even when progress feels slow, even when the system feels overwhelming, your kindness, your dedication, and your unwavering belief in human dignity make a difference.
Lastly, my fellow social workers, I celebrate you. Your dedication, compassion, and commitment to this work inspire me every day. May we continue to lift each other up, to learn from one another, and to hold onto the hope that fuels our passion for change.
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