Not alone: VA social workers in your corner for 100 years

Celebrating social work in VA

VA has grown into a far-reaching system designed to offer Veterans a wide array of benefits, services and support. But for some, navigating it can feel overwhelming. With so many programs, forms and eligibility requirements, getting the help you’ve earned shouldn’t feel like a full-time job.

And you shouldn’t have to navigate our system alone.

Imagine having someone by your side who understands how VA works, someone who can help you cut through red tape, connect you to the right resources and guide you toward the support and care you need.

That’s where VA social workers come in.

Jacks of all trades, masters of many

Social workers are the all-purpose advocates of healthcare. As clinical professionals, they provide a broad range of services and support to help Veterans and their families thrive. Their work includes:

• Assessment and planning: Social workers help you identify your needs and develop an individualized care plan that considers your health, living situation, support systems, military experience and personal goals.

• Crisis intervention: When life feels overwhelming, social workers are trained to help you cope and resolve crises.

• Applying for programs and services: From VA programs to community-based supports, social workers know the systems and the forms. They can help you apply for benefits and services that meet your ongoing needs.

• Advocacy and education: Social workers help ensure your voice is heard. They advocate for your needs, support your choices, and help you and your family understand everything from VA services to wellness strategies, stress management and local support services.

• Therapy and treatment: In addition to all the above, many social workers also provide individual, group and family therapy to address emotional, behavioral and mental health needs.

A century of service

VA social workers have been walking alongside Veterans for 100 years. The VA Social Work Service was established on June 16, 1926, by Veterans Bureau General Order 351. Since then, social workers have become integral to nearly every area of Veteran care, helping transitioning service members, Veterans, families, caregivers and survivors access the full range of VA support.

Today, social workers are embedded across VA, including in:

• Primary care
• Mental health and substance use
• Post-9/11 transition
• suicide prevention
• Survivors’ assistance and memorial support
• Former prisoners of war
• Homelessness
• Caregiver support
• …and more

Whether screening for suicide risk, arranging benefits, connecting a homeless Veteran to housing resources, or counseling Veterans coping with trauma, VA social workers have improved the lives of millions of Veterans and the people who stand beside them.

Throughout 2026, VA is celebrating 100 Years of Social Work by highlighting the many ways social workers continue to help Veterans access the care and support they’ve earned. A century later, that mission—making sure no Veteran navigates VA alone—is as strong as ever.

Connect with a VA social worker

You don’t have to navigate VA alone. To get connected with a VA social worker near you, call MyVA411 at 800-698-2411 or visit us online at our Social Work Leaders page.

Learn more about VA social work.