Special Interest Groups

Special Interest Groups (SIG) are member-led networks of social workers across New York State and beyond, connecting like-minded social workers on topics, practice areas, client populations, and other common interests for the purpose of sharing resources, and further developing support systems through the New York State Chapter.

Any member may facilitate a special interest group, and ALL social workers benefit from the activities of these groups. SIGs plan continuing education programs, host events, support the growth of individuals and social work practice areas, and help to ensure that the New York State Chapter is inclusive and representative of ALL social workers.

Unapologetically South Asian

Facilitators: Veera Mookerjee 
Meets: Fourth Mondays, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. ET

Paused: TBD


Rising to the Challenge of School Social Work

Facilitator: Martha Schultz
Meets: Last Tuesdays, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. ET

Paused: TBD

Social Workers Working With Older Adults

Facilitator: TBD
Meets: Last Thursdays, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. ET

To Be Announced

Seasoned & Retired Social Workers

Facilitator: Barry Davis
Meets: Second Mondays, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. ET

Join Zoom Meeting - Meetings will Resume in Sept.

Strengthening Rural Social Workers

Facilitator: Martha Schultz
Meets: Third Tuesdays, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. ET

Paused: TBD

Private Practice Action Work Group (PPAWG)

Facilitator: Scott Zotto, L.C.S.W.
Meets: Third Fridays, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. ET (following June 26, 2026)

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Jewish Social Workers

Facilitators: Carole Cox & Dana Marlowe
Meets: Third Thursdays, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. ET

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Immigration and Global Social Work Collective

Facilitators: Christina Best & Linda Levin
Meets: Third Mondays, 7:00 p.m. ET

Join Zoom Meeting - Meetings Resume In Sept

Human-Animal Bond Special Interest Work Group

Co-chairs: Rachel Zielinski, LCSW-R, CASAC-M & Stephanie Coco, LMSW
Meets: Quarterly

Join Zoom Meeting
Do you want to connect with social workers around a special interest but don't have a network yet? Email us at info.naswnys@socialworkers.org and we will help you get it started!