Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) students at the University of Northern British Columbia-Quesnel participated in two major events last week, applying their academic and theoretical training to practise as future social work professionals in the community.
On March 10, students and staff participated as volunteers in the B.C. Homeless Count taking place across the province, with Quesnel participating in the count for the first time. Community members went out into the community to survey people experiencing homelessness, which will inform valuable data in programs and services supporting some of the most vulnerable citizens of Quesnel and the province, and participating in the count presented a great opportunity for students to apply their classroom learning to a practical experience.
Also during the week of March 9, social work students were able to partake in Social Work Week, celebrating the social work profession and the accomplishments of its workers. Fourth-year students organized a lunch with local social workers, with approximately 20 students and community members attending, allowing students to form important professional connections to the industry. The theme for the event was “Superheroes,” with students highlighting the everyday “hero” nature of social workers and their importance to the community.
Students also collected personal hygiene items for donation, with more than 60 items donated to Seasons House and Amata Transition House.
— Submitted by the University of Northern British Columbia
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editor@quesnelobserver.com
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