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Jump Start -- by Mark Sproxton
Working as a match consultant/intake worker for Big Sisters and Big Brothers of Calgary, Frances MacMillan has the opportunity to fulfil her desire of making a difference in others' lives.
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"Social work positions are in every area imaginable, from hospitals and prisons, to mental health agencies and schools."
Frances MacMillan,
Big Sisters and Big Brothers Calgary
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But answering questions from parents who want their children in the program, or matching individual children to adult mentors, is a far cry from what she first thought of as social work. Like many others, when someone spoke of social work, her thoughts turned to issues around child welfare.
"I was surprised at the flexibility of a social worker," she said. "Social work positions are in every area imaginable, from hospitals and prisons, to mental health agencies and schools."
In the process of completing a final paper for her bachelor of social work degree -- to go along with a bachelor of psychology degree -- MacMillan said volunteering moved her to pursue social work academically. And completing the required practicums of the program gave her the knowledge necessary to succeed in the world of work.
"The knowledge you acquire in the classroom is essential, however, the practicum provides you with the opportunity to apply that knowledge to real life," MacMillan explained. "It is where the 'real' learning begins."
For those considering a social work career, she recommends volunteering in an area of interest prior to enrolling in post-secondary. Volunteer opportunities are available at agencies such as Big Sisters and Big Brothers Calgary. "Social work is a very rewarding profession but it can also be quite difficult and stressful," MacMillan said. "You need to be able to commit yourself to your clients and their well-being."
A plethora of social work related opportunities are available in and around Calgary. Here's some information on volunteer, education and employment opportunities, along with some links to potentially helpful associations and organizations.
Volunteer
Volunteer opportunities serve as a great way for those pursuing social work careers to gain hands-on experience. Volunteer Calgary has many opportunities to work with adults, youth, groups, seniors and families depending on area of interest. Many of this organizations' partners are social help groups throughout the city.
Education
Many local education opportunities also exist for those interested in social work. Here are some of the programs offered in Calgary (courses and programs are also offered at other post-secondary institutions throughout the province):
- Mount Royal College offers a number of programs leading into this industry, including a two-year child and youth care worker diploma, and a two-year social work diploma. A disabilities study program is also offered, and through the Continuing Education department certificates in conflict resolution and addictions studies are available.
- The University of Calgary offers a bachelor of social work program as well as masters and PhD programs. (This site may cause certain versions of the Netscape browser to freeze.) A number of mediation-related certificates are available through the Continuing Education department.
Employment listings
- Individual agency websites (for example the YMCA) all post social work positions and are accessible through the Jobsville section of nextSteps.
- The careers and classified sections of the Calgary Herald often have positions in social work advertised.
- The provincial government's job listings, The Bulletin Online, contains numerous ads for openings in this industry throughout Alberta.
- The Alberta College of Social Workers site also has vacant positions advertised on its website.
Associations
A number of provincial and national associations also offer courses, programs, workshops and a host of information on topics such as certification and registration for those interested in working in the social work industry.
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