March is Social Work Month, and the theme this year is “Empowering Social Workers.” Here at Say Yes Cleveland, we’re committed to recognizing the incredible impact social workers have on our community, especially within the educational landscape.

Today, we hear from on Charles Ausbrook, a Family Support Specialist at Valley View Boys’ Leadership Academy. Below, Charles shares his valuable insights on empowering social workers and the ways they, in turn, empower the communities they serve.

While I am not a trained social worker, I have had the opportunity to work with many throughout my career in education. Social workers play a crucial role in supporting families and their children’s academic success. They possess the expertise to identify and address barriers that hinder a child’s education. This includes connecting families to essential services and programs tailored to their specific needs.

Having social workers in schools readily available means extra support for students, families, and staff. Teachers primarily devote their time to curriculum development and preparing students for assessments. Social workers, on the other hand, specialize in addressing the unique needs of families and the surrounding community.

In today’s educational landscape, the responsibility of addressing student needs has broadened. Staff members, from teachers to administrators and program providers, often take on aspects traditionally associated with the social worker role. This may include tasks such as referring students to mental health services or providing clothing assistance. Through this collaborative approach, social workers, educators, and other support staff work together to empower families and propel students towards graduation and future success.

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March is Social Work Month, and the theme this year is “Empowering Social Workers.” Here at Say Yes Cleveland, we’re committed to recognizing the incredible impact social workers have on our community, especially within the educational landscape. Throughout the month, we’ll be highlighting the inspiring work of our very own Say Yes Cleveland Social Workers.

Today, we turn the spotlight on Joyce Freeman, a Licensed Social Worker and Family Support Specialist at Horizon Science Academy. Below, Joyce shares her valuable insights on empowering social workers and the ways they, in turn, empower the communities they serve.

What significance does Social Work Month hold for you?

Social worker month holds a great significance to me in my life. I have always wanted to be a social worker after watching women in my family work in this field. They have shown me great strength and dedication that they hold toward the field. As a Social worker sometimes, you have to put your own beliefs to the side and move in the best interest of vulnerable clients. Social workers advocate for those who are unable or do not know how to access the resources they need. I have found being a social worker to be very rewarding, and social work makes this world a better place.

In what ways do social workers play a crucial role in the success of students and schools?

I currently work at a charter school and my role as a Social Worker plays a very crucial role in the success of my school. While working at a charter school some of the resources that are offered to public schools are not offered to charter school students. So as a Social worker I have to search for resources and services that are available for my students. There are minimal needs that my student need however they still need social, emotional and educational support.

How can the community create a more empowering and supportive environment for social workers?

The community needs to be truly educated on why social workers are important and to also understand what we do. Social workers are multifaceted and wear many hats. Once the community understands what we do they would show more appreciation and gratitude towards having a social worker involved in their lives.

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March is Social Work Month, and the theme this year is “Empowering Social Workers.” Here at Say Yes Cleveland, we’re committed to recognizing the incredible impact social workers have on our community, especially within the educational landscape. Throughout the month, we’ll be highlighting the inspiring work of our very own Say Yes Cleveland Social Workers.

Today, we turn the spotlight on Cassandra Klein, a Licensed Social Worker and Family Support Specialist at Memorial. Below, Cassandra shares her valuable insights on empowering social workers and the ways they, in turn, empower the communities they serve.

What significance does Social Work Month hold for you?

Social work month matters to me because it helps bring awareness to the profession and highlights the amazing work that is done daily by thousands of social workers. It’s a time to remember and honor those who have fought and continue to fight to provide support and empower vulnerable populations. This year the theme is “Empowering Social Workers”, which brings awareness to how important it is to not only make sure the people we support are empowered but to also equip ourselves and make sure we are supported, and our profession is properly recognized. This month also reminds us that our work is never done, and we must continue to work to address social injustice.

In what ways do social workers play a crucial role in the success of students and schools?

Social workers are instrumental in schools because it allows them the ability to work closely with students and their families for multiple years. This allows for strong relationships to be built between the social worker, students and their families. When students and their families feel supported, they are more likely to engage with the social worker and the school. Having the professional support of a social worker may mean the difference between staying in school or dropping out, managing depression or letting it overwhelm the student, a family having food or going hungry, or a student being able to come to school with clean clothes and the resources they need. Social workers are just one of many integral parts working together to make sure the student and their family are supported.

How can the community create a more empowering and supportive environment for social workers?

Individuals can support social workers by being understanding and collaborating to help solve a problem. I have received a lot of help and support from my administration, my co-workers and my community. Supporting a social worker can be as simple as sharing resources that can be passed onto others who may be in need of them. One of my goals at the school is to make sure the students and their families are supported so that education can placed at the top of their priority list. This is impossible if the family is worried about food, a place to sleep at night, or essential items that may be needed. Being able to help and support others through tough times is vital. At some point, most people need a little help and I’m glad I can be there for our students and their families.

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March is Social Work Month, and the theme this year is “Empowering Social Workers.” Here at Say Yes Cleveland, we’re committed to recognizing the incredible impact social workers have on our community, especially within the educational landscape. Throughout the month, we’ll be highlighting the inspiring work of our very own Say Yes Cleveland Social Workers.

Today, we turn the spotlight on Anthony Hollins, a Family Support Specialist and Team Lead at Charles Dickens. Below, Anthony shares her valuable insights on empowering social workers and the ways they, in turn, empower the communities they serve.

In what ways do social workers play a crucial role in the success of students and schools?

Social workers are essential in schools because we help create safe spaces for students to thrive. We work closely with educators, supporting them in areas they may not reach. By linking families to resources, teaching prevention, and providing mental health support, we help students feel better, so they can do better in school.

What significance does Social Work Month hold for you?

Social Work Month is a great time for raising awareness about the diverse scope of our profession. It’s an opportunity to showcase that social workers aren’t confined to one setting but are instrumental in schools, hospitals, policymaking, and beyond. By highlighting the various roles and impact we have, we can educate others about the wide-reaching scope of social work and the vital contributions we consistently are making in society.

How can the community create a more empowering and supportive environment for social workers?

Supporting social workers involves respecting the time and effort we’ve invested in our education and professional development as health professionals. It’s crucial to honor our contributions to society and compensate our work equitably, similar to other healthcare professions. Recognizing the diversity of specialties within social work and understanding that we are skilled professionals can help combat the undervaluation often associated with our field. By acknowledging the importance of our role in promoting mental and emotional well-being, we can improve support for social workers and ensure that our contributions are properly recognized and respected.

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March is Social Work Month, and the theme this year is “Empowering Social Workers.” Here at Say Yes Cleveland, we’re committed to recognizing the incredible impact social workers have on our community, especially within the educational landscape. Throughout the month, we’ll be highlighting the inspiring work of our very own Say Yes Cleveland Social Workers.

This week, we turn the spotlight on Lekisha Rogers, a Family Support Specialist and Team Lead at Joseph Gallagher School. Below, Lekisha shares her valuable insights on empowering social workers and the ways they, in turn, empower the communities they serve.

What significance does Social Work Month hold for you?

Social Work Month holds profound significance for me; it highlights the invaluable contributions of social workers in enhancing the well-being of individuals and communities. As someone deeply entrenched in social work, I recognize the pivotal role social workers play in advocating for social justice, providing essential support services, and empowering vulnerable populations. Social Work Month serves as a beacon, reminding us to honor and celebrate the dedication, compassion, and resilience of social workers who tirelessly strive to create a more equitable and inclusive society.

In what ways do social workers play a crucial role in the success of students and schools?

Within the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) and its partnering charters, social workers serve as linchpins in fostering a nurturing and conducive learning environment for students. They offer vital assistance to students facing various socio-economic challenges, including poverty, homelessness, and trauma. By providing counseling, advocacy, and resource coordination, social workers play a pivotal role in addressing barriers to academic success and promoting holistic development among students. Moreover, they collaborate closely with teachers, administrators, families, and community organizations to implement targeted interventions and support systems, ensuring that every student receives the personalized care and support they need to thrive academically and emotionally.

How can the community create a more empowering and supportive environment for social workers?

Fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and inclusivity within the community can help create a supportive environment where social workers can effectively carry out their mission of serving those in need. By recognizing the importance of social work and actively engaging in efforts to support social workers, individuals can contribute to building a brighter future for our youth and communities.

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March is Social Work Month, and the theme this year is “Empowering Social Workers.” Here at Say Yes Cleveland, we’re committed to recognizing the incredible impact social workers have on our community, especially within the educational landscape. Throughout the month, we’ll be highlighting the inspiring work of our very own Say Yes Cleveland Social Workers.

This week, we turn the spotlight on Shauna Scott-Rose, a Family Support Specialist and Team Lead at East Tech High School. Below, Shauna shares her valuable insights on empowering social workers and the ways they, in turn, empower the communities they serve.

What significance does Social Work Month hold for you?

Social Work Month holds a special place in our hearts because it’s a time to celebrate the tireless dedication we show and the immeasurable impact we make on countless lives. It’s a reminder of the liberating and uplifting nature of our work.

In what ways do social workers play a crucial role in the success of students and schools?

Social workers play a critical role in schools, where their support is essential for students’ well-being. Teachers, despite their best efforts, often lack the time and resources to provide the specialized social support students may need. That’s why it’s crucial to have comprehensive support systems in place, addressing the social, emotional, academic, and physical needs of our students.

How can the community create a more empowering and supportive environment for social workers?

Individuals can play a vital role in supporting social workers by expressing their sincere gratitude and appreciation. A simple “thank you” can truly make a difference. Furthermore, offering ongoing support, advocacy, and a spirit of inclusivity goes a long way in creating a positive and empowering environment for social workers to thrive.

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Say Yes Cleveland is excited to share that SayYesCleveland.org has been refreshed with new content and materials. The revamped layout provides a crisp, white background with modern branding, vibrant colors, and an easier method for students and families to find the information they need to obtain scholarship information and support.

The new website is meant to be more helpful than ever before with easy-to-use tools including the My College Checklist, which helps students plan out their post-secondary plans, as well as the Find A School tool, which helps them locate colleges and universities, and the updated Scholarship Guidebook, designed to answer questions individuals might have about using the Say Yes scholarship toward tuition at a college or career training program after high school graduation.

The new website, designed by Nesnadny + Schwartz with generous support from the George Gund Foundation, took a year to develop with the assistance of a steering committee that included leadership and critical input from Say Yes Cleveland, College Now of Greater Cleveland, Cleveland Metropolitan School District, and Twelve Literary and Performative Arts Incubator. Local artists such as Lisa Kessler, McKinley Wiley, and Amber C. Ford contributed artwork and photography.

“We’re extremely excited to introduce our new website to the community, in particular our students and their families,” said Jon Benedict, Say Yes Cleveland’s Director of Communications. “Our goal has been to make SayYesCleveland.org, first and foremost, a tool that helps students and their families navigate the college-going process and connect to all the supports that Say Yes Cleveland offers. We’re so grateful to our many great partners, and especially the support of the Gund Foundation, for making this vision a reality.”

In addition, the website provides stakeholders and community members with streamlined access to the most recent Say Yes Cleveland news, impact reports, partnerships, donation/mentoring opportunities, and more.

In Summer of 2022, Say Yes Cleveland Family Support Specialists (FSS) extended into all 104 CMSD and partner charter schools. As a result of this expansion, the website now provides students and families with access to online support outside of school hours, in addition to on-site assistance during the school day.

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One way to support Say Yes Cleveland is to help stock the Family Support Specialist’s (FSS) Care Closets. Say Yes Cleveland’s Family Support Specialists serve as a resource in the schools to identify, engage, and assist students and families. The FSS connects students and their families with needed services. Their office is often a place where students go for a winter coat, school supplies, clothing items, hygiene supplies, or a snack and a listening ear. 

The items on this list are based on what we hear from the Family Support Specialists. Because the FSS’s are school based, they are able to communicate daily with students and families and have a pulse on needed resources. Your gift from this list will help stock the Family Support Specialist’s Care Closets, so students can get what they with minimal disruption to the school day. 

If you are interested in doing a donation drive to support Say Yes Cleveland, please contact Lisa Baskin Naylor at [email protected] or 216-904-5166.

Start Shopping Here Today! 

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Say Yes Cleveland is excited and grateful to welcome new contributions awarded by The George Gund Foundation’s board of trustees in honor of retiring Foundation president, David Abbott. The two new contributions benefiting Say Yes Cleveland scholars are:

A $1.5 million contribution to the Say Yes Cleveland Scholarship Fund. This contribution brings the total funding secured in donations and pledges to nearly $95 million, approximately 76 percent of the $125 million needed to guarantee tuition scholarships to all eligible students for the next quarter-century.

A $5 million grant that will establish a Living Learning Community for Say Yes Cleveland scholarship recipients at Cleveland State University. This grant will fund room and board for four cohorts of 30 students apiece, with all costs covered for the first two years and half room and board covered the second two years.

Diane Downing, executive director of Say Yes Cleveland, said:

“There are few organizations as critical to the existence of Say Yes Cleveland as The George Gund Foundation, and few people as integral to our work as Dave Abbott. Dave and the Gund Foundation not only helped lay out the strategic framework on which Say Yes is built, but they were also early and historically generous contributors to the Say Yes Cleveland scholarship fund. That’s what makes these new donations made in Dave’s honor so unexpected, meaningful, and deeply appreciated.”

David Abbott, president of The George Gund Foundation, said: “From our Foundation’s first investment in Say Yes Cleveland back in 2018, we have viewed it as a long-term investment in the young people of Cleveland. We are hopeful that our community can close the $125 million fundraising goal in these next two years, and then turn its attention beyond the tuition scholarship to the whole cost of postsecondary attendance. Our grant to the Living Learning Community at CSU is intended to jump start that effort, so that more students have an opportunity to live on a college campus, surrounded by supports that help them through graduation.”

“We do think these grants will create renewed interest in contributing to the Say Yes Cleveland Scholarship Fund and help us get closer to meeting our $125 million goal,” added Ms. Downing. “We are already seeing significant, tangible results. Last year, nearly 1,200 Cleveland students from CMSD’s classes of 2019 and 2020 enrolled in college or career training through the Say Yes Cleveland scholarship program. We have paid out more than $3 million in scholarships already, and we are eager to pay out much more in the future. We want every student in Cleveland’s schools, (and their parents) to grow up with the certain knowledge that a Say Yes scholarship is waiting for them after high school graduation. But to ensure that this commitment is guaranteed for at least the next two generations of students, we must achieve our fundraising goal.”

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