Honoring Slone, Mackenzie forNat’l Social WorkerMonth

March was National Social Workermonth. The Lexington Fire Department would like to thank ourcertified social workers, Maria Slone and Mackenzie Gross fortheirwork. We are a betterdepartment because of them. They are valuable members of ourCommunity Paramedicine team. They advocate for individuals by being a voice forthem in working with healthcare professionals, educating them on how to have theirown voice, and teaching all of us the importance of advocacy. Daily, they accompany us during Paramedicine visits with individuals and are an integral part of the assessment and interview process. They continue follow-up and engagement through phone, text and email to those needing continued support. These ladies bring a unique perspective in responding to those in ourcommunity needing support. They have guided us in ourengagement, taught us improved communication skills, including choice of words, tone and volume, and improved ourbody language. In performing theircommitment to ourclients, they support the client’s self determination, a significant tenet of the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics. Today we thank you and all social workers who work to make every individual seen and heard.

- Photo courtesy of Lexington FD