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In the spring of 1986, four weeks of state mandated training began for approximately forty-three social work practitioners
representing all the regions of the Commonwealth. As this training progressed, it became apparent that the group was reaching
out for something in additional to the training package that was being offered. That "something" was later defined as a need to
bond together to address certain issues and concerns - a need born of may years of commonly shared frustrations characteristic of
being a publicly employed Social Worker. Its was recognized that the same frustrations and needs were common throughout the state
regardless of the size of one’ agency or the wealth on one’s locality. The group decided to explore the idea of forming an
organization for the purpose of defining the causes of these frustrations, thereby developing a tool to address the defined causes.
The Social Work Profession in our state would thus be enhanced, and ultimately the quality of service delivery to our clients would
be improved.
The group formed a committee that began working to develop by-laws and structure for the proposed organization. Existing organizations
in the state were approached with the idea of a possible affiliation. Individuals from each of the planning districts in Virginia
were asked to serve as representatives to organize their district.
By the fall of 1989, the group had been incorporated as The Virginia Alliance of Social Work Practitioners. A formal affiliation
with the Virginia League of Social Services Executives had been established. The Alliance accepted its first membership application
in November 1989.
Since that time, the Alliance has continued to grow, and has developed cooperative working relationships with the League, the Benefit
Programs Organization (BPRO), the Partnership of Office Services Support Employees in Social Services (POSSESS), the Virginia Department
of Social Services, and the State Board of Social Services. The Alliance has provided a mechanism for local Social Workers and Employment
Services Workers to impact the development of social services program policies. Planning District meetings and bi-annual conferences
have provided a forum for personal and professional growth and development, while encouraging networking and providing support to local
social services Social Work and Employment Service Workers. Activities focusing on state policies and legislation have united Social
Work and Employment Service Workers and enabled them to have a stronger voice.
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Membership applications are now being accepted for the upcoming year. Please renew or join us! Use the attached coupon to receive a discount
towards your dues until August 15th. Agency memberships may be received before the July 1 begin date for the new year.
 Membership Application
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The Alliance is interested in maintaining a roster of retired local agency social workers who would be interested in working part time in local
agencies after retirement. We have some directors who are very interested in hiring retired workers to help when there are vacancies. If you
are getting ready for retirement and would like to be on this roster, please email your contact information including the program areas you have
worked in to amitchell@kingwilliamcounty.us. If you know of retirees who might be interested,
please have them email their contact information as well. Thank you.
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Please visit the website for the League at www.vlsse.org
You will find committee meeting minutes for all of the Service program committees. Thanks.
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