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The month of March is nationally recognized as Social Work Month, and that moniker seems particularly fitting in light of current affairs. Concern over coronavirus has closed schools, halted gatherings, and even shuttered churches, bars and restaurants. While many people are staying inside or working from home, hundreds of Cuyahoga County social service workers are still on the job, making sure clients and the community get the help they need in this time of crisis.

As we mark the beginning of Social Work Month, we reflect upon the thousands of passionate individuals who have dedicated their lives’ work to uplifting those in need. Through the years, social work has called these strong spirits to motivate people to live to their fullest potential. This month, we salute the contributions of social workers who have been shaping our society for the better for generations.

Cuyahoga County currently has more than 2,900 children in our care—more than we’ve had in years. Most will be in our custody temporarily while their parents or guardians work to resolve issues; some need a forever family. Whether temporary or permanent, each of these 2,900 children need a safe, stable, and loving place to call home. Finding those homes requires normal, everyday people deciding to make room in their hearts for a child who needs help.

At the start of a new year, one of the best resolutions we can all make is to take better care of ourselves. A good place to start is by checking up on our own mental wellness. Mental wellness is about more than just the absence of mental illness—it’s our ability to cope with the stresses of life in a way that allows us to stay productive and positive.

Canopy is a one-stop location where children and families impacted by child abuse can get a full range of services in a child-friendly and trauma-informed setting. Within its first year, Canopy has served over 722 children and their families who have been impacted by child abuse.

November marks National Adoption Month, a time to focus efforts on finding families for children who don’t have them. Across the U. S., more than 123,000 children are waiting for their forever families. Six-hundred of those children reside right here in Cuyahoga County.