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Social Work Spotlight

Welcome to our Social Work Spotlight, where we celebrate the incredible work and dedication of social workers who profoundly impact individuals, families, and communities daily.

 Through interviews, features, and personal narratives, we delve into the challenges they face, the triumphs they celebrate, and the invaluable support they provide to those in need.

2024 Social Work Spotlight

Meet Elisa Robin, LMSW

“Hardworking, empathetic, and determined are just a few adjectives to describe myself. I am the oldest of 4 siblings. I graduated from Western High School, Baltimore, MD, in 2005, enrolled at Coppin State University, where I pledged to become a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and then earned my Bachelor’s of Social Work in 2009. I continued my graduate education at the University of Maryland of Baltimore, where I earned my Masters of Social Work in 2010 with a concentration in Children’s Family and Adolescent. Following the advice and guidance given by my mother, I created an environment for other youth to have support despite outside struggles, and applying my well-known leadership, I co-founded Diamonds On The Rise Inc. in 2010 and actively served as the CEO. Diamonds On The Rise is a youth development nonprofit organization (and licensed and CARF-accredited mental health agency) for at-risk/high-risk youth and families that provides positive out-of-school time enrichment programs and services. I have been noted as 92Qs 2013: “Top 30 under 30” and graduated as a 2017 Warnock Fellow. In addition, I’m a self-published author of a children’s book, “Little Julian & His Toy Cars,” based on the imagination of my oldest son. My children’s book promotes literacy as well as serves as a fundraiser for her youth nonprofit, Diamonds On The Rise.”

Executive Director/Co-Founder

Why did you decide to become a Social Worker?
“I decided my freshman year of College. I thought I wanted to be a therapist (although I am indirectly) but I knew I wanted to help people. Social Work spoke to me.”
 

What motivates you personally or professionally?

“My family motivates me, I was the first to attend college in my immediate household, yet my mother played a significant role in supporting all my endeavors. I want to be the best for my children, so they indirectly motivate me. Professionally, knowing the difference I make in the youth and families lives through programming services.”

What is the best part about being a Social Worker?
“At the end of my day, I know that I was able to connect a family to a resource, provide a listening ear, or educate a youth/family on a needed coping skill. I love what I do. I love learning about others’ lives and assisting them to become their best selves.”
 
What advice (someone else gave you) do you carry with you, or would you like to pass on to someone else?
“A piece of advice someone gave to me consisted of “being my authentic self yet understanding”. People will love and like you for YOU and show some compassion, we all travel different paths.”

Contact Info:

Meet Latoya Stewart, LCSW-C

“My name is Latoya Stewart and I have been working in the field of Social Work for sixteen years. My background spans fields of social work practice such as child welfare, forensic, medical/ psychiatry, therapy, school based, marketing/ employment and advocacy. I am a HBCU two time graduate (Morgan State University) with a heart to serve. I opened my Private Practice in 2019 at a time when everyone was attempting to connect with things that bring them natural joy. Teaching and speaking to others to help them connect with their natural power with a Clinical eye and subjective support. This Goes Out to You LLC is here to support.”

Psychotherapist/Private Practice Owner

Why did you decide to become a Social Worker?
“To serve and give back to the greater good.”
 
What motivates you personally or professionally?
“I am motivated by my lineage and family.”
 
What is the best part about being a Social Worker?
“Seeing the essence of good in all people.”
 
What advice (someone else gave you) do you carry with you, or would you like to pass on to someone else?
“You are not a victim.”
 

Contact Info:

The COACH Network is designed for mental health & human service professionals across various disciplines, including case managers, psychologists, counselors, therapists, social workers, and psychiatrists.

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Take a Look at our Past Social Work Spotlights!