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Showing posts from 2024

Social Welfare Policy Analysis

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Jacob Wheat Spalding University Social Welfare Policy - SW-455-D2-S22425 November 17, 2024 Social Welfare Policy Analysis The social welfare policy landscape in the United States has changed significantly, especially for some of the more marginalized communities. To that end, this paper will analyze the intersectionality between LGBTQIA+ rights and social welfare frameworks in relation to the youth population within the foster care system, as illuminated by an issue brief by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) on LGBTQIA+ youth in foster care ( Human Rights Campaign [HRC], 2022 ). Inclusive policies, such as the USAID LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Development Policy, are important in the recognition of needs and rights for the LGBTQIA+ community ( 2023 LGBTQI+ Inclusive Development Policy , 2023 ). It will examine the effectiveness of existing programs and services in view of the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ youth in foster care and broader social welfare policy implications. Analysis ...

Promoting LGBTQIA+ Inclusion: Empowering Kids to Self-Identify and Creating Safe Spaces

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Introduction In recent years, the conversation surrounding LGBTQIA+ rights and inclusion has garnered significant attention, particularly in the context of youth and their experiences in the foster care system. As highlighted by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), LGBTQIA+ youth are often marginalized, facing unique challenges that require our collective support. This blog post will explore the importance of LGBTQIA+ inclusion, the significance of allowing kids to self-identify, and how we can create safe spaces for open conversations. The Importance of LGBTQIA+ Inclusion LGBTQIA+ inclusion is about recognizing and respecting the diverse identities within the community. As noted in the social welfare policy analysis, inclusive policies such as the USAID LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Development Policy are essential for acknowledging the rights and needs of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Here are some key points to consider: Empowerment Through Representation: Representation in media, education, and social se...

Louisville Pride Festival

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  I will be at Louisville Pride on Saturday, September 14, 2024 from 1:57 PM - 6:30 PM at the Music City Prep Clinic booth. Louisville's location for their Music City Prep office is at the PRIDE bar + lounge , the staff is friendly and the benefits can keep you safe and protected with FREE prep, FREE STI screenings every three months, and more! The Louisville Pride Festival is set for Sept. 14 on Bardstown Road between Longest Avenue and Grinstead Drive. The event is separate from Kentuckiana Pride which took place last month at Waterfront Park. Come see me, I will be there and would love to see you! :)

Broken Three Times: A Story of Child Abuse in America by Joan Kaufman

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  Purchase A Copy The novel "Broken Three Times" provides a nuanced glimpse into the lived experiences of Maria and her children, Sylar and Samaya. Through their interwoven stories of resilience and struggle, we gain insight into the multi-layered issues impacting vulnerable families navigating the child welfare system. This paper aims to comprehensively examine key aspects of their circumstances by reflecting on existing literature and applying social work lenses of cultural competence, human development, and trauma-informed care. The goal is to develop a deeper understanding of the systemic challenges they face while highlighting opportunities for strengthening practice approaches. Family Strengths and Everyday Adversities On the surface, Maria, Sylar, and Samaya's family unit exhibited affection demonstrating their bond as a source of support. However, peer-reviewed research indicates a mother's own history of childhood trauma, like Maria's sexual abuse, ...

Facing My Senior Year with Optimism and Anxiety

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  As I prepare to begin my final year of college, I find myself experiencing a whirlwind of emotions. On one hand, I'm filled with a sense of excitement and optimism about the future. This is the year I've been working towards, the culmination of my undergraduate studies, and the gateway to the next chapter of my life. I'm eager to tackle the challenges that lie ahead and maximize my potential in the classroom and during my practicum. However, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't also feeling a fair amount of anxiety. Senior year represents a significant transition, and with that comes a certain degree of uncertainty. Will I be able to successfully balance my coursework, my practicum responsibilities, and any extracurricular activities? Am I truly prepared to put into practice everything I've learned? What if I fall short of my own high expectations? These doubts creep in from time to time, but I'm doing my best to maintain a positive outlook. I know that I'v...

Happy Heavenly Birthday, Grandma.

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Yesterday I was part of a group text, that group text reminded me of the reason behind my social work journey. Instead of "taking a shot" at anyone publically, I will comment that my Senior year at Spalding University School of Social Work is about to start, and I am happy to report that I have a 4.0 currently and will start my practicum in child welfare. There are kids who, like myself, went through abuse and neglect and now my mission is to help them. Generational trauma, regardless of who contributes, can manifest in many areas. I no longer care contribute to the dysfunction and venom, it's pointless. Sometimes saying no, refusing to contribute to the toxicity, and removing yourself from the contagon is the best way to pave a path forward for yourself and others around you. Children do not have to wade in your mistakes to absord the waters of  your negativity. I will fall on the ears of people who are willing to contribute to my success, and choose to celebrate the pea...

We learn by example.

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My only opinionated post about this issue, and then my life moves forward. Keep your comments to yourself. I will block abrasive people. I have given a lot of thought about Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20 year old who attempted to shoot tRump. This is what CNN should be talking about, not the toxic RNC. Us folks who have been around a while have seen Presidents come and go, but this KID was 12 years old when tRump was elected President. He has not been privy to healthy confict resolution, and has witness America "on fire," with school shooting, COVID, and even how voters react with January 6th and the insurrection. WE ARE NOT BEING ROLE MODELS. WE ARE THE ONES RESPONSIBLE.  We can do the US vs THEM until we are blue in the face, argue with each other and spit venom at friends and family (like THEY do), but it's ultimately US that needs to set an example since our "leaders" have choose violence among each other. I am not at all a person who supports tRump for many ...

HIGH ALERT! REGISTER TO VOTE!

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  It is time - if you are old enough to VOTE, and need to get registered to VOTE - please go to: https://vote.gov/ I want you to realize that LGBTQIA+ people are threatened, now more than ever, and pay attention to Project 2025, and what that could mean for YOU as an American. https://www.project2025.org/ Read Project 2025 and search for LGBT and read what they plan for us: https://static.project2025.org/2025_MandateForLeadership_FULL.pdf If you want an inclusive America where freedoms are for all people, then VOTE - and do not skip this election, your future may depend on it.

Mushroom Coffee? Tons of ads, is this self care or fake?

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Ryze Mushroom Coffee I started seeing ads (every other ad) about stuck poop, and how I needed to take a pill, or drink some mushroom coffee, or chocolate drink to clean out at least 25lbs of feces from inside me. I naturally grew concerned and curious. I went on Amazon and broke down and bought a bag of this Ryze Mushroom Coffee , and I am on day #2. First things first, you need creamer. I use no sugar vanilla, otherwise it tastes like "earth." As for the stuck poop part, I will have to let you know cause I am only on day #2. Is it hype? Mushroom coffee - claims to be a ame-changing beverage that not only provides a gentle caffeine boost but also offers a wealth of adaptogens to support your overall wellbeing. Discover how this unique blend can help you unlock your full potential and elevate both your mind and body. At the heart of mushroom coffee are a carefully curated selection of adaptogenic mushrooms, each with its own unique health benefits. Cordyceps, for instance, is...

LGBTQIA+ & Misinformation Or Information To Mislead?

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Just watched this video, and read the comments, he is a wolf in sheeps clothing to me. Proclaiming to be free from bias and being objective, yet, unable to have the education to view this from a macro-level lens. I DO NOT CONDONE THIS VIDEO , but I wanted to make my answer loud and clear for those who may not see the birds-eye issue here. He is outwardly anti-LGB (and removes the T, Q, I, A , +) as to erase those memebers of the community, and honestly has more focus on anti-LGBTQIA+ issues than I consider healthy.   YouTube has even issue demonitizatin restrictions on his account, because no one should be rewarded for spreading hateful retoric. AND if you deep dive his name, you will find he is a person who has a lot of time to invest in being somewhat of a misinformation machine, churning out content on TikTok and other platforms with similar malicious intent. He preys on exploting LGBTQIA+ youth in TikTok stitches and garnishes a humble amount of likes for his hate speech....

Hypothetical Research Proposal: The Impact of Postive Role Models for LGBTQIA+ Youth in the Media and their Personal Environment

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  Last night I gave my research presentation for my Quantitative Reserach class at Spalding University School of Social Work, which was on "The Impact of Postive Role Models for LGBTQIA+ Youth in the Media and their Personal Environment," and this is a great example of why PRIDE matters. This is a hypotheitical research model, and was used as a possible project to propose when I get to the masters program. Be kind to each other, be an ally, and most importantly - consider the importance of PRIDE month! You can download the PDF of my paper HERE  download the PDF of my paper HERE , the password is: socialworker.  Please note this is a HYPOTHETICAL RESEARCH PROPOSAL and is still in it's infancy, I plan to grow this through my Master's program. Thank you!

How To Handle A Homophobic/Transphobic Friend or Family Member

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Here are some tips for challenging anti-LGBTQIA+ attitudes in a respectful yet impactful way: Let THEM know you're an ally!  https://amzn.to/4ebLOOP Approach the situation calmly and avoid escalating tensions. Getting defensive or aggressive is less likely to change hearts and minds. Seek to understand where the person's views are coming from. Listen with an open mind before responding, as their beliefs may stem from misinformation or personal experiences. Humanize the issue by sharing personal stories and experiences of LGBTQIA+ people. Put a real face to the abstract concept of "LGBTQIA+ rights." Appeal to the person's sense of empathy and compassion. Emphasize how hurtful and damaging anti-LGBTQIA+ attitudes can be, especially for vulnerable youth. Use factual, evidence-based information to counter misinformation or misconceptions. Stick to the facts and avoid getting caught up in heated debates. Frame your perspective as a difference of opinion, not a personal...

LGBTQIA+ Pride Month! Celebrate Pride, Uplift Vulnerable Youth!

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Order Your Shirt! June marks LGBTQIA+ Pride Month, a time to celebrate the diverse identities and vibrant community of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and other gender and sexual minority individuals. Pride is an important time to recognize the hard-won rights, visibility, and acceptance that LGBTQIA+ people have fought for over decades. But Pride is about more than just celebration - it's also a critical opportunity to uplift and support LGBTQIA+ youth, particularly those who are the most vulnerable. Many LGBTQIA+ young people face unique challenges, from family rejection and bullying to mental health struggles and increased risk of homelessness. Pride can be a powerful source of affirmation, resilience, and hope for these youth. When LGBTQIA+ young people see Pride celebrations, LGBTQIA+ role models, and messages of acceptance, it can have a profound impact on their self-esteem and sense of self-worth. Feeling proud of one's identity and seeing ...

REGISTER TO VOTE BY OCTOBER 7TH, 2024!

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VOTING IS IMPORTANT! Important Dates: *October 7, 2024 Last day to register to vote in the General Election* November 5, 2024 General Election Day in Kentucky Kentucky Residents Obtaining a Voter Registration Card A voter registration card can be obtained and completed at your county clerk's office or click here: https://elect.ky.gov/SiteCollectionDocuments/Register%20to%20Vote/Kentucky%20Voter%20Registration%20Card.pdf to download a voter registration card in PDF format. You must have the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader. Option 1 Print out the form, fill out the voter registration card by hand, sign it, and mail to the State Board of Elections. Option 2 Fill out the voter registration card using the computer, print out the form, sign it, and mail it to the State Board of Elections. For more information: https://elect.ky.gov/registertovote/Pages/default.aspx

2086 of 3000: When and where were you happiest? Embracing Self-Love and Celebrating Success: A Junior's Journey in the School of Social Work

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Today, I want to share with you a deeply personal and transformative journey that has brought me immense happiness and fulfillment. As a junior in the School of Social Work, I have discovered the power of self-love and witnessed the fruits of my hard work. Join me as I reflect on this incredible experience and look forward to the upcoming senior year. Discovering Self-Love The path to self-love is often paved with challenges and self-doubt. Like many others, I have grappled with insecurities and questioned my worth. However, my journey through the School of Social Work has taught me the invaluable lesson of embracing self-love. It was during this time that I realized the importance of valuing myself, my dreams, and my accomplishments. While academic success is undoubtedly important, it is equally crucial to acknowledge personal growth and the strength found within. By cultivating self-compassion and nurturing my own well-being, I have discovered that happiness radiates from within. Eac...

Arrogance & The Code of Ethics In Journalism

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The journalist lens is not a social worker lens - keep that in mind: Journalists adhere to a code of ethics to ensure accuracy, fairness, and integrity in their work. While specific codes may vary slightly depending on the organization or country, the core principles generally remain consistent. Here are some key elements commonly found in the journalist's code of ethics: Truth and Accuracy: Journalists have an obligation to report the truth and strive for accuracy in all aspects of their work. They should verify information from multiple sources and be transparent about the sources of their information. Independence and Objectivity: Journalists should maintain independence from political, commercial, or other external influences that may compromise their journalistic integrity. They should avoid conflicts of interest and present news and information in an unbiased and impartial manner. Fairness and Impartiality: Journalists should treat all subjects of their reporting with fairnes...