In honor of Social Work Month, we sat down with Christine Dubridge, one of HealthNet’s 10 social workers, to talk about the important role social workers play in your health.
Why did you become a social worker?
I chose to become a social worker because I wanted to have a career where I could make a difference in the lives of individuals and families who are socially and/or economically challenged. As a social worker, I connect clients to the resources and referrals that will best serve their needs, and help them to become self-sufficient. Social work also enables me to give clients the support that they are in need of, which often gives clients a greater sense of empowerment and the motivation they need to make a positive change in their lives. When I look back, I realize that I was destined to be a social worker. It was a part of me all along, and my calling from God. Once I choose to walk into my calling, everything fell in line.
What can you assist families or individuals with?
The social work team assists families, individuals, children and elderly adults with a variety of resources and referral sources that will best serve their needs. Some of these include, but are not limited to the following:
- food pantries
- homeless and domestic violence shelters
- utility assistance, clothing and furniture
- childcare
- elderly resources
- medication assistance
- Marketplace insurance
- High School Equivalency classes
We also refer pregnant women or new moms to HealthNet’s Healthy Families Program who can assist them with car seats, cribs, baby clothes, supplies and support. The social work team also assists clients with transportation for doctor appointments through our cab and bus ticket program. We also utilize and promote other HealthNet programs, such as our Medical-Legal Partnership and Best Father Program.
What is the most satisfying part of your job?
The most satisfying part of my job is when clients follow through and utilize the resources and referrals sources that I provide them with. Another very satisfying part of my job is when I have clients who for no special reason at all ask to see me just so they can talk for a few minutes and thank me for the help and support I have showed them.
To learn more about HealthNet Social Work department, visit www.indyhealthnet.org.
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