My work-study is undertaken at the Osborne Association, NEXT Steps program. As part of my work-study, I am engage in direct social work practice experience working with at risk youth’s ages 18-24 residing in the New York City Public Housing. The program provides mentorship services and assisting the youths in dealing with day-to-day challenges. These at risk youths are minorities, living in poverty; some gang affiliated and does gateway drugs such as smoking marijuana or alcohol. Generalist practice course provides me with the knowledge and skill base for assessing the protective and risk factors of individuals. During my individual sessions, I am able to identify these risk factors, which may cause possible negative outcomes. Being able to recognize and understand both risk and protective factors allows me to view these clients in the context of their environment instead of a problematic or as a bad individual. Drawing from the ecological and strengths perspective I have been able to develop intervention skills to address …show more content…
I have become familiar with the components of the social work profession and it’s roles. During my field practice on the micro level, direct services are provided to address the concerns of these at risk clients through individual sessions and group facilitation. On the Mezzo level, indirect services are provided, by working with community base organizations and agency personnel to address our client’s issues and concerns. Collaborative services are provided through internal programs, which offer career development, GED class among others. I enjoy the aspect of being physically involved and seeing transformations of the clients who are ready to change. I am beginning to better understand how to support individuals through change and I realize that knowledge of the populations is very important and