My journey with Corporate Social Work collective

Written by Amy Gordon, LCSW

For a long time, I asked myself the question, “What else can I do as a social worker?” Like many fellow social workers who I’ve connected with over the years, I felt I was limited to roles in clinical practice, case management and other “typical” social work careers. 

Then, one day in Fall 2021 I was revisiting this age-old question, turning to Google in hopes of finding the answer. Low and behold I came across The Corporate Social Work Collective (CSW Collective). I explored their mission and the impactful work they were doing I was instantly intrigued. I immediately signed up for their email list and when I received notification of their next event, I could not wait to attend. The event was an enlightened panel discussion featuring leaders in Corporate Social Work. I finally felt that I was starting to find out the answers to “What else can I do as a social worker?”

Now approximately two years later, my journey with the CSW Collective has been a transformative one. Through attending events, networking with like-minded individuals, and engaging with their thought-provoking content, I am confident that social work skills are an asset that extends far beyond the boundaries of non-profit organizations, social service agencies, schools and hospitals. 

While I had always heard that a social work degree opens doors to diverse career opportunities it wasn’t until I connected with real-life social workers doing the work that I truly understood the endless possibilities. I’ve met social workers who have become successful entrepreneurs, influential human resource leaders, experts in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), finance gurus, professionals in IT and operations, among others. 

Since finding the CSW Collective I’ve come to understand the importance of charting my unique path as a social worker. I currently juggle various roles, working as a per-diem hospital social worker and a contract therapist for a mental health tech company. These roles allow me to refine my skills, strike a balance between work and personal life, and explore my long-term career aspirations. While I may not yet classify myself as a corporate social worker, the skills, education and network I’ve gained since joining the CSW Collective has been instrumental in shaping my identity as a social worker. 

If you’re a social worker grappling with the question, “What can I do as a social worker?” I urge you to stop wondering and start seeking answers. Take the plunge, put yourself out there, subscribe to the CSW Collective newsletter, explore their resources, attend their events, and connect with social workers who are doing work that aligns with your future aspirations. Your journey to expanding the boundaries of your social work career begins with your own curiosity and determination.