On Tuesday, House Assistant Republican Leader Jackie Haas recognized Illinois social workers on World Social Work Day, which is recognized on the third Tuesday of every March. Leader Haas, also a Social Worker, has served her community in that capacity for more than 30 years.
“Illinois Social Workers help individuals through the challenges and difficulties they may be facing, and it’s important we recognize these professionals, who touch so many lives in our communities,” said Leader Haas. “We often are called in to help women, children, and families, the homeless – just to name a few – when they are experiencing some of life’s most challenging situations, including medical complexities, behavioral health issues, trauma, and abuse. We are there for those we serve in some of the best and worst times in their lives. Let’s recognize this hard work every day, and be sure to thank a Social Worker today!”
In 1994, Rep. Haas joined the Helen Wheeler Center for Community Mental Health. She became the CEO of the organization in 2000, pushing to expand healthcare, economic opportunity, and early childhood development throughout the Kankakee community. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Valparaiso University and her Master’s degree, with a specialization in mental health, from the Jane Addams School of Social Work at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Haas has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1992.
Leader Haas is the House Republican Spokesperson for the Health Care Availability and Accessibility and Mental Health and Addiction Committees. She also serves on the Human Services and Prescription Drug Affordability and Accessibility Committees.