Being the Change
Training the Next Generation of Social Workers
By: Wendell Covell, LCSW
Director of Program Operations & Training
Social work is more than a profession. It’s a lifestyle dedicated to serving others and committing to constant self-improvement along the way. We operate under the highest set of standards to ensure quality care for everyone we serve.
Social workers show up every day, dedicated to being the change and uplifting the community. Whether it’s a pandemic, social injustice, a natural disaster, or a crisis in the community, you can count on social workers answering the call.
Social work interns have chosen to put their all into this work by pursuing a profession which demands countless hours of supervision, rigid licensing requirements, constant practice, and classroom learning. We take that seriously at JFS and work as hard as our interns do to show up and provide them the experience they are seeking. It means a lot to us to be part of their journey, knowing we are the foundation for the work they do for the rest of their careers. It’s a chance for us to influence the impact our students will have and a time where we get to teach them what it means to be a compassionate professional in this field.
Meet some of JFS Delaware’s interns below:
Jada Carwell
Studying at Delaware State University
JFS Program(s): Therapeutic Support for Families
What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned during your internship?
I have learned that all people—of all backgrounds—need help.
What do you find most fulfilling about the work you do?
Witnessing growth in the people I help.
What does giving back mean to you?
Charitable giving, donating time, and sharing knowledge.
Share your favorite quote.
“It’s not about what you say, it’s about how you say it.” —Carol Carwell
Ellen Durham
Studying at Rutgers University
JFS Program(s): Older Adults
Why were you drawn to working with a nonprofit like JFS?
The team culture at JFS is inclusive and supportive.
What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned during your internship?
The importance of supporting not just clients, but their caregivers and loved ones.
What does giving back mean to you?
Offering your knowledge and helping people on or beyond your team.
Share your favorite quote.
“In the darkest times, hope is something you give yourself. That is the meaning of inner strength” —Iroh, Avatar the Last Airbender
Rebekah Mo
Studying at Delaware State University
JFS Program(s): Older Adults, Maternal Mental Health, Community Based Counseling at Albert Einstein Academy
Why were you drawn to working with a nonprofit like JFS?
I believe mental healthcare should be accessible to all.
What do you find most fulfilling about the work you do?
Seeing the strength and resilience of my fellow humans.
What does giving back mean to you?
Seeing a need and turning toward that need with love and compassion.
Share your favorite quote.
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” —Maya Angelou
Reba Rager
Studying at Widener University
JFS Program(s): Counseling Intake
Why were you drawn to working with a nonprofit like JFS?
The emphasis placed on creating space for everyone to find their voice and strengths.
What do you find most fulfilling about the work you do?
Watching people take back control of their lives.
What does giving back mean to you?
It means helping and empowering those around you to live a happier life.
Share your favorite quote.
“The time is always right to do what is right.” —Martin Luther King Jr.