Giving a Voice to the Voiceless: Celebrating Social Work Month

Social workers navigate complex systems and institutions to provide resources and support for those that need it the most. They refuse to turn a blind eye to inequality and instead, tackle the issues head on by using their position to drive positive change.

At LiveOnNY we applaud social workers 365 days of the year, but this month — Social Work Month — provides an opportunity to recognize the commitment these tireless professionals make every day. This includes our very own, Landette Jeffrey.

Landette is a Senior Family Support Advocate at LiveOnNY and holds a master’s degree in social work and public administration. Her innate passion and commitment to giving a voice to the voiceless is what makes her instrumental in the success of LiveOnNY. We sat down with Landette to learn more about her inspiration to become a social worker, lessons learned, and how LiveOnNY has supported her over the last decade to expand her remarkable skillset.

What inspired you to become a social worker?

Looking back, I realize that social work has been part of my life from the beginning. Coming from the South Bronx, I was raised by a community — the phrase “It takes a village” comes to mind. Whether it was my parents or grandparents, or my teachers and even some social workers, my “village” may have looked unconventional, but it shaped who I am today.

When it came to choosing my path, nursing was my initial choice but that quickly changed. My academic advisor ended up being a social worker and I was amazed by his story and the work he was doing. His inspiration, coupled with my existing passion for volunteer work through my Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. pointed me to my destined path: social work.

What’s the most surprising lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?

Growing up, I was told I had a “big mouth” and that I was too bold. I was the student that always raised their hand to ask “Why?” when I noticed any sort of injustice happening.

At first, it was difficult to accept this about me but as I grew up, and especially as a social worker, I fully embraced this gift that was given to me. And yes, I call it a gift now because I’ve come to find that there are so many people out there that can’t speak for themselves. I was born with the ability to advocate for those who can’t and if that means people think I have a big mouth, then I have a big mouth.

What’s the most meaningful part of the work you do at LiveOnNY?

Meeting with families and giving them “light” during their darkest hour is what keeps me going. It’s a tragic situation when someone loses a loved one, but organ donation can be their light. During times of crisis, people sometimes feel like they’ve lost control of what’s happening but saying ‘yes’ to donation gives families the ability to take back the power. Through organ donation, families can now write their loved one’s narrative, giving them — the donor heroes — a positive ending to their story.

How would you describe LiveOnNY’s impact on your career?

LiveOnNY is a safe and supportive work environment that will challenge you in the best way possible. You’re given endless opportunities to develop your skillset as a social worker, especially when it comes to crisis intervention and the ability to collaborate with other organizations. Simply put, at LiveOnNY you will learn and you will grow.

Landette is just one of many social workers who are part of LiveOnNY. Our Family Services and Aftercare Services departments, many of whom have social work experience, work with great care and sensitivity to ensure all donor families are supported during their time of grief. We are inspired by their hard work and give appreciation to the essential role they play at LiveOnNY.

To join the team and say “I am LiveOnNY” visit LiveOnNY.org/careers