NASW Social Work Talks EP 134 - Strengthening Community: Social Workers at the YMCA
Dec 5, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Anna Stindt, a seasoned mental health director from the La Crosse Area Family YMCA, and Diara Jackson, an advocate for youth development in Central Maryland, explore the integration of social work within the YMCA. They share their inspiring journeys into social work and highlight how they leverage their skills to boost community well-being and youth development. From innovative partnerships to successful youth programs, they illustrate the profound impact social workers can have. Their stories emphasize the importance of creativity and adaptability in nontraditional social work roles.
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Apply Skills Beyond Traditional Roles
- Apply your social work skills beyond traditional job titles and roles.
- Anna Stindt urges practitioners to recognize transferable skills and broaden their impact at places like the Y.
Pursue Nonclinical Continuing Education
- Seek continuing education that builds project and management skills when working in nontraditional settings.
- Anna recommends expanding CE focus beyond traditional clinical topics to support broader roles.
Create Licensure Supervision Cohorts
- Create supervision pathways and cohorts for licensure hours inside nontraditional agencies.
- Diara Jackson describes forming cohorts to provide clinical supervision and bridge training gaps.
