CHEYENNE—The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Wyoming Chapter honored social workers and an agency in an awards ceremony that was part of the association’s 2015 annual conference held in September.

Each recipient has made exemplary contributions to their communities and the social work profession Awards were presented at a luncheon held during the educational conference.

In presenting the awards NASW Wyoming Board President Michelle Ecker of Laramie said, “Social workers are super heroes! We may not walk around in capes or colorful costumes, but have no doubt, social workers show up every day to help make the world a better, safer, healthier place one person, one family, and one community at a time. While we don’t want to reveal any secret identities, it’s important that we take the time to honor the great work of our everyday professional super heroes.”

The 2015 “social work super hero” award recipients include:

• Social Worker of the Year Award was given to Kimberly Harper, LCSW, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, for her outstanding work and accomplishments in exemplifying social work achievements and values in her professional endeavors. Kimberly is the part-time Executive Director for the NASW Wyoming Chapter in addition to working for Cheyenne Regional Hospice program.

• Outstanding Contribution Award was presented to Laura Schmid-Pizzato, LCSW, of Rock Springs, Wyoming, for her professional and volunteer contributions to the field of social work, to social work practice, and as an outstanding example of a social work professional. Laura spent 15 years serving as the social work representative on the Wyoming Mental Health Professions Licensing Board. Throughout her career she has supported the education and clinical development of social work students and young professionals to ensure an ongoing pool of highly qualified social work providers for Wyoming citizens

• Agency of the Year Award honored Liv In-Home Counseling and Case Management, LLC of Cheyenne, Wyoming, and was accepted by founder and ownerEmily Loos, LCSW. LIV’s recognition was based in part on the courage and tenacity of its owner and the agency’s mission to “enable individuals to achieve the highest level of independence and emotional well-being possible.” LIV is committed to serving the underserved in Wyoming and will be a force for those in need of food, water, shelter, medical and mental health services as it continues to evolve and grow.

The NASW Wyoming Chapter has 275 members across Wyoming and is part of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), in Washington, DC; the largest membership organization of professional social workers. It promotes, develops and protects the practice of social work and social workers. NASW also seeks to enhance the well being of individuals, families and communities through its work and through its advocacy.