As a social worker at Wood’s Homes, I wanted to share the top 10 reasons why I believe someone with an interest in social work would want to join us here:

1. Annie Jarvie, a social worker and friend (and future bride) of George Wood, assisted him in the work he did with children. After Reverend Wood died, she became the matriarch of Wood’s Christian Home and was/is commonly referred to as ‘Mother Wood’ to many. Today, many others have followed in Annie’s footsteps and are guided by our CEO, Dr. Jane Matheson, a registered clinical social worker and a clinical social work supervisor.
2. Wood’s Homes is an ACE accredited organization that provides ongoing training and development, as well as opportunities to earn ‘Category A’ credits for social work credentials.
3. No day is the same at Wood’s Homes. While you may try to plan meticulously, you can almost guarantee there will be several unexpected challenges facing you. Social work constantly keeps you on your toes!
4. The situations you deal with are often unique and extreme. You learn how to become an expert at dealing with aggressive behaviour, and will further understand your strengths and weaknesses as an individual and social worker.
5. Wood’s Homes is proud to have been named one of the Top 100 Best Workplaces in Canada in 2011 and 2012, as well as one of Canada’s Best Workplaces for Women in 2011. I think that accomplishment speaks for itself!
6. Although you may not get a “thank you” every day, when a client or parent does thank you for helping them overcome the difficulty in their life, you will feel fulfilled! One of the greatest rewards of being a social worker is knowing you’ve helped another person in a small (or sometimes big) way.
7. As a social worker, you come to better appreciate the ‘things’ and people in your own life, knowing about the many challenges others have faced.
8. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in social justice, but don’t want to commit to 4+ years’ of undergraduate school, social work is a career worth considering. Ranging from diplomas and undergraduate degrees, to accelerated graduate degree programs and doctorates, there are many different educational routes you can take to embark on a career in social work.
9. There will always be a need for dedicated social workers in our communities. As a social worker, job security is rarely something you’ll have to worry about. In fact, it’s during difficult economic times that the community needs your services the most.
10. There are days when I come home and just smile, knowing I’ve helped a person or family get through a dark time.