About the ABSW Foundation
The Foundation’s overall purpose is to provide community outreach and to offer charitable and educational activities that benefit the community. Launched in 2018, the ABSW Foundation was established to address the growing need for support among those pursuing careers in social work, particularly social workers of color. The impetus for starting the Foundation grew out of the need to help grow interest in the field of Social Work. The challenges of our times compete with the ambitions of promising students. The dearth of social workers of color at a time when the needs of our community are expanding tremendously calls us to task. It is our hope that this Foundation can continue to contribute in a meaningful way to future social workers and the community at large.
Our scholarship program is specifically designed to promote, aid, and support Black and African American students who aspire to become helping professionals in the field of Social Work. Scholarship applications are posted on the website each year.
The ABSW Foundation is dedicated to empowering and supporting Black social workers and the communities they serve. Our mission is to advocate for social justice, provide professional development, and offer educational opportunities that enhance the well-being of Black individuals and families.
Our Objectives:
1. Advocacy and Social Justice: We strive to address and combat systemic inequalities affecting Black communities through active advocacy and policy initiatives.
2. Educational Support: Through scholarships and mentoring programs, we support aspiring social workers in their educational journeys, helping them achieve their academic and professional goals.
3. Community Engagement: We are deeply committed to serving our local communities through outreach programs, partnerships with local organizations, and direct services that promote health, education, and economic stability.
Key Programs:
- Scholarships: Providing financial support to students pursuing degrees in social work and social welfare.
- Training and Workshops: Offering professional development opportunities to keep members informed of best practices and emerging trends in social work.
- Community Initiatives: Engaging in projects that address critical issues such as mental health, housing, and economic empowerment.
Membership
ABSW membership is open to all social workers and individuals committed to the advancement of Black and African communities. Members benefit from networking opportunities, access to exclusive resources, and the ability to participate in impactful community programs.
Join us in our mission to promote social justice and empower Black social workers and the communities they serve. Together, we can create meaningful change and build a brighter future for all.
The Founders of this Foundation
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Phyllis McClean
MSW, Foundation CEO
Phyllis is a long-time member of ABSWGLA and a Member-At-Large of the ABSWGLA Executive Board. She retired from the South Central Los Angeles Regional Center after 29 years, where she worked in case management and resource development for persons with developmental disabilities. Post-retirement, she continued her work with the Regional Center for six years, focusing on community outreach.
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Elma Stewart
LCSW + FOUNDAION TREASURER
Elma has been a dedicated member of ABSWGLA, serving in various roles including Chapter President, Vice President, Treasurer, and representative to the National and California Associations of Black Social Workers. She has over 27 years of experience with the LA County Department of Children Services as a supervisor and Program Manager.
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Stephanie Alexander
LCSW + FOUNDATION SECRETARY
Stephanie has been a member of ABSWGLA for the past decade and originally joined in the early 70s. After a career spanning 31 years with the Dept. of Mental Health, where she served in various roles including Clinical Social Worker and Clinical Manager, she returned to ABSWGLA upon retirement. She has also worked as an Associate Professor and Mental Health Consultant in private practice.
Get in Touch.
We would love to hear from you! Whether you have questions about our programs, want to get involved, or need more information about donating, please reach out to us.