VSU Social Work Student Helps Area Veterans

A graduate student in the Valdosta State University Division of Social Work, Kathleen “Katie” E. Crock spends 20 hours a week working with the men and women who volunteered to serve their country in the armed forces. She was placed with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Community Based Outpatient Clinic in August 2012 to put into practice theories learned in the classroom.

“… my practicum will end in May when I graduate,” she said.

As a primary care and mental health social work intern at the Valdosta clinic, Crock holds individual and group therapy sessions with the veterans. She provides case management services and conducts clinical psychosocial assessments. She also helps the veterans receive the services they need within the Department of Veterans Affairs and the community.

“Since a social worker wears many hats, I do a little bit of everything,” she said. “It has been such a wonderful experience working with this population.”

Crock is currently collecting clothing, nonperishable food items, and donations for gas and/or grocery gift cards to assist these men and women. These items will be given to local veterans during the Veterans Outreach Fair from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 23, at the Valdosta Middle School track.

“There is a lot of need in our community, so any support would help,” she said.

For the complete story, please visit: http://www.valdosta.edu/about/news/releases/2013/03/vsu-social-work-student-helps-area-veterans.php.