Every day, across the country, social workers show up for people in moments that matter most.
Not for recognition.
Not for attention.
But because someone needs support, guidance, advocacy, or simply someone who will stand beside them and not walk away.
During Social Work Month 2026, we asked a simple question: Who is making a difference?
The responses we received were powerful. Not just because of what was said — but because of what they revealed about the people doing this work every day.
This year’s theme, Uplift. Defend. Transform., came to life through their stories.
Here are a few of the people who embody that work.
Lauren Naeve
Disability Waiver Case Manager | Hubbard County Human Services, MN
“Social work, to me, is about showing up consistently and meeting people where they’re at. I’m motivated by the small, everyday progress that can add up to meaningful change.”
Lauren’s work is grounded in consistency, advocacy, and deep respect for the individuals she serves. Known for her person-centered approach, she sees strengths others might miss and isn’t afraid to advocate for what’s right — even when it’s difficult.
Her nominator shared that Lauren builds strong, lasting relationships with her clients and approaches each situation with fairness, creativity, and a commitment to finding the right support — even when it doesn’t yet exist.
Mariah Cline
Inpatient Social Worker | Licking Memorial Hospital, OH
“I enjoy interacting with members of my community on a daily basis and advocating for individuals in vulnerable populations who cannot speak for themselves.”
Mariah meets people in some of their most vulnerable moments — and brings both compassion and clarity when it matters most.
She helps patients and families navigate complex decisions, ensuring safe transitions and access to the right care. Her ability to connect, educate, and guide others transforms what can feel overwhelming into something manageable and supported.
Her nominator described her impact simply: she makes people feel seen, heard, and cared for — and that stays with them long after they leave her care.
Lynsey Yarger
Care Management Consultant | Genesis HealthCare System, OH
“It’s meeting people where they are, without judgment, and walking alongside them as they navigate challenges, change, and growth.”
Lynsey’s impact is felt not just in her work — but in the lives she’s helped shape. From supporting children through foster care to advocating in court and guiding families through adoption, her work reflects what it means to truly uplift, defend, and transform.
Her nomination came from a family she once served — a powerful reflection of the trust, care, and lasting connection she built during one of the most important times in their lives.
Aaliyah Height
Child Support Supervisor | Wilson County DSS, NC
“Social work means being a source of support, advocacy, and accountability… always keeping the well-being of children and families at the center.”
Aaliyah leads with both structure and empathy — balancing policy, people, and progress.
During a period of significant change, she helped her team stay grounded, supported, and confident. She created space for questions, encouraged growth, and ensured her team felt heard throughout the process.
Her leadership doesn’t just move work forward — it builds trust, resilience, and momentum within her team.
Her nomination came from a family she once served — a powerful reflection of the trust, care, and lasting connection she built during one of the most important times in their lives.
Lisa Hinson
CPS Program Manager | Harnett County DSS, NC
“My heart is with vulnerable children who need safety and protection… I believe people can change and improve with intervention.”
With more than 30 years in CPS, Lisa has dedicated her career to protecting children and strengthening families.
Her impact extends beyond the families she serves to the teams she leads — providing guidance, support, and stability in a field that demands both resilience and compassion.
She uplifts those around her, defends the most vulnerable, and creates lasting transformation through both her leadership and her care.
Chemung County Children & Family Services Division
Chemung County DSS, NY
This nomination recognized an entire team — a reflection of how meaningful impact in human services is rarely the work of one person alone.
From clerical staff to caseworkers to leadership, the division was recognized for its commitment to a kin-first philosophy — ensuring children remain connected to their families, culture, and support systems.
Together, they:
- Uplift families through compassion and respect
- Defend child safety through strong, consistent practice
- Transform outcomes through collaboration and continuous improvement
Their work is a reminder that when teams align around a shared purpose, the impact reaches far beyond any single role.
The Through Line: Uplift. Defend. Transform.
Across every story, every nomination, and every voice, one thing is clear:
Social work is about more than services.
It’s about people.
It’s about showing up — consistently.
Advocating — even when it’s hard.
And creating change — one moment, one family, one decision at a time.
A Final Thank You
To the social workers across the country:
Thank you for the work you do.
Thank you for the care you bring.
Thank you for the impact you make — even when it goes unseen.
And to those who took the time to nominate someone — thank you for helping shine a light on the people who make this field what it is.
