NASW – Iowa Chapter

Newsletter

SEPTEMBER 2025 EDITION

Land Acknowledgement:

“We acknowledge that the NASW Iowa Chapter is located on the ancestral land of the Ioway and Meskwaki Nations. We recognize these Indigenous peoples long-standing presence and ongoing contributions to our community. As an institution, we are committed to decolonization and supporting Indigenous rights in our education programs and community partnerships.”

NOTE FROM THE NASW IA CHAPTER 2nd VICE PRESIDENT

September is that magical in-between time — not quite summer, not quite fall — when the air feels fresh with possibility. In social work and social justice, that’s our sweet spot: the space where change starts brewing and momentum builds.

And let’s not forget — it’s also back-to-school season! Whether you’re hitting the books yourself, supporting students in your community, or just soaking up that “fresh notebook” energy, this time of year is a reset button for our minds and our mission.

But remember — even changemakers need to refill their cups. As we advocate, learn, and push for progress, let’s also carve out moments for rest, reflection, and joy. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s how we sustain the work and keep showing up for others.

This month, let’s take a cue from the turning leaves — bold, unapologetic, and ready to show our colors. Whether we’re challenging an unfair policy, uplifting a neighbor, or sparking important conversations, September is our reminder that transformation can be both powerful and joyful.

So grab your coffee, your advocacy boots, and maybe a cozy blanket — and step into this season (and this school year) with energy, purpose, care, and just a little bit of “good trouble.” The world is ready — and so are we.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead

Sincerely,

Sharaine Webster, LISW, IADC

NASW-IA 2nd VP

IN OUR COMMUNITY - 

From September 15 to October 15, we honor the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to recognize the lasting impact Hispanic and Latinx communities have made—and continue to make—on our society. Join us in celebrating through stories, events, and reflections that highlight the diversity and strength of these vibrant cultures.

Celebrate these diverse cultures and histories at the Iowa Latino Heritage Festival September 27 and 28th at Des Moines Western Gateway Park. More information here - https://www.latinoheritagefestival.org/

IOWA NASW NEWS

It’s here! Symposium 2025

Join us in Ankeny on September 18th and 19th for NASW-IA chapter Symposium. Our theme this year is Hope, Healing, and Advocacy: Managing the Personal and the Professional. Our keynote speaker, Dr. Adam McCormick, MSSW, PhD, will present on Thursday, September 18th. His presentation, The Unfinished Business of Childhood: Recognizing, Honoring, and Healing the Childhood Adaptations of Social Workers, explores how unresolved childhood trauma and adaptations shape the professional lives of social workers.

Break out sessions will be held on the Friday the 19th. We will also have a variety of exhibitors sharing resources, job opportunities and several schools with information on their Schools of Social Work. Beaverdale Books will be back with its always wonderful selection of books. You’ll also find our self-care table and a return of the NASW-IA Student Committee Silent Auction! All funds raised will go towards projects that support increased diversity within the field.

Remember – Fri. 9-19 is casual day at Symposium, so if you need a social work themed t-shirt, see below.

Register here - CLICK HERE to Register

NASW-IA T-SHIRT

Get your T-shirt from the NASW Iowa Chapter! Printed by RAYGUN using union labor, our t-shirt features the slogan “Social Workers: Where Compassion Meets Action.”

Proceeds benefit the NASW-IA’s advocacy and education efforts.

Available in sizes S–4XL, the shirt is $25 and printed on heather burgundy fabric with black ink.

Order here.

Chapter office hours:

Our executive director, Denise Rathman, is the Chapter’s only full-time employee, which means our staffed office hours are somewhat irregular.  The best way to reach her is to send an email and let her know the best times to call you.

Exec.naswia@socialworkers.org

If you get voicemail, please be sure to leave a message, so she knows how she can be of assistance.

MEMBER BENEFIT

Did you know? Your NASW membership offers more than just services and discounts—it’s a mark of professionalism and dedication to the field. Including your NASW affiliation on your resume or bio signals to employers and clients that you uphold the highest ethical standards, stay current with best practices, and are committed to ongoing professional development. It’s a credential that inspires trust and sets you apart in a competitive field.

IOWA EVENTS AROUND THE STATE

Social Work CEU Events

9/16/25 - 5:00 pm - 8:15pm - Social Work in Hospital Settings - Zoom

9/18/25 & 9/19/25 - Iowa Chapter Symposium - Ankeny, IA - Register here!

9/18/25 - 5:00pm - 6:30pm - Social Work & Political Resistance: The Role of Social Work in Mutual Aid. Part of the NASW National Student Series - Register at www.socialworkers.org/studentevents

10/8/25 - 9:00 am - 12:15pm - Artificial Intelligence in the Social Work Profession

3.0 hours Ethics - Presented by Dr. Frederic Reamer - Zoom

**Be on the look out for more social events coming soon in your branch!**

To register and find more events visit: https://naswia.socialworkers.org/Events/Events-List-View

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Carlie Crabtree (she/her) lives in Urbandale and is completing her MSW at Grand View University with an expected graduation of May 2026. She got her undergraduate degree in psychology and social work at the University of Northern Iowa in August 2024. Carlie completed her undergraduate internship with Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging in Waterloo. She will start her graduate internship in August 2025 and plans to complete this with Senior Life Solutions. Carlie has an extensive background working as a Certified Nursing Assistant in nursing homes and hospitals. She also has experience working at the Mental Health Institute in Independence as a Residential Treatment Worker, providing direct care to adolescents and adults diagnosed with mental health disorders. Carlie's plan after graduating is to work with older adults in hospice and eventually wants to have her own therapy practice specializing in the geriatric population. She has been an active member of the NASW Student Committee since 2022. Carlie feels like being a NASW Student Committee member has been very valuable and has given her great opportunities to network and build relationships. She is optimistic for the future and can't wait to see what her future as a social worker will look like.

Contact Us:           

515-277-1117

Nasw.naswia@socialworkers.org

Naswia.socialworkers.org

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