SPRINGFIELD – On Tuesday, House Assistant Republican Leader Jackie Haas (R-Kankakee) is recognizing Illinois social workers for World Social Work Day. World Social Work Day is recognized every third Tuesday of March and Leader Haas has served her community as a Social Worker for over 30 years.
“Illinois Social Workers help individuals through challenges and difficulties they may be facing, and it’s important we recognize these professionals who touch so many lives in our communities,” said Leader Haas. “We are often called in to help women, children and families, the homeless – just to name a few – when they are experiencing some of life’s most challenging situations; medical complexities, behavioral health issues, trauma and abuse. We are there for those we serve in some of the best and worst times in their lives. Let’s recognize this hard work every day, and be sure to thank a Social Worker today!”
In 1994, Rep. Haas joined the Helen Wheeler Center for Community Mental Health. She became the CEO of the organization in 2000, pushing to expand healthcare, economic opportunity, and early childhood development throughout the Kankakee community. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Valparaiso University and her Master’s degree with a specialization in mental health from the Jane Addams School of Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Haas has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1992.
Leader Haas is the House Republican Spokesperson for the Health Care Availability & Accessibility and Mental Health & Addiction Committees. She also serves on the Human Services and Prescription Drug Affordability & Accessibility Committees.