Social workers are uniquely positioned to provide leadership in human and social services setting.  There is a set of competencies developed by leaders in the field that describe the skills and behaviors necessary for effective leadership and management. These competencies, published by The Network for Social Work Management, are entitled “Human Services Management Competencies:  A Guide for Non-Profit and For Profit Agencies, Foundations and Academic Institutions.”  The publication is available as a resource for leaders who are seeking a detailed explanation of standards of practice in organizations.  This session will review these competencies and focus on areas that are essential to operating effective social services organizations.

The presenter will review specific competencies and provide detailed examples of what they may look like in practice. Attendees will be encouraged to discuss examples of practices that they may have observed or experienced from either a positive or negative perspective.

Strategies for developing competencies will also be discussed, making reference to self-reflection as a beginning point for exploring ways of growing professionally.  

Shelly Wimpfheimer, DSW

President – Wimpfheimer & Associates, Executive Director -  The Community Chest of Englewood (J)