Unsung Heroes of Social Work to Be Honored: Nominations Open for 6th Annual SWAG Awards

Launched in 2020 at the height of the pandemic, the SWAG Awards were created by licensed clinical social worker, author, and wellness strategist Sharise Nance to spotlight the tireless commitment of social workers across diverse roles and organizations. Since then, nearly 100 social workers have been honored for their leadership, advocacy, and compassion. The annual ceremony has grown into a highly anticipated event that not only uplifts professionals in the field but also educates the community about the essential role of social workers in advancing dignity, justice, and wellbeing.

“Social workers rarely do this work for recognition, but they deserve to be seen, celebrated, and supported,” said Sharise Nance, Founder of the SWAG Awards and the SWAG Alliance Foundation. “The SWAG Awards shine a light on the incredible individuals and organizations who are changing lives every day, often with little acknowledgment.”

This year’s ceremony will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, for National Social Work Month at the Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square, bringing together honorees, community leaders, sponsors, and supporters for an evening of recognition, storytelling, and connection.

Award Categories

The 6th Annual SWAG Awards will recognize excellence across the following categories:

Heart Work Award – Honoring social workers who embody compassion and commitment in their daily practice.

Entrepreneur of the Year – Recognizing social workers leading innovative ventures that expand access, equity, and impact.

Lifetime Achievement Award – Celebrating a career of dedicated service and lasting contributions to the field of social work.

SWAG Legacy of Heart & Impact Award – Honoring organizations that go above and beyond to uplift the profession and the communities they serve.

The André B Hemby “There for Me” Social Worker Supporter Award – Honoring the social work supporters (parents, guardians, mentors, coaches, or loved ones) who stand behind our awardees. This special award, created in memory of founder Sharise Nance’s late father, celebrates those whose encouragement makes the “heart work” of social workers possible.

Call for Nominations – Open September 2 through October 3, 2025

The public is invited to nominate outstanding social workers and organizations who exemplify the profession’s six core values.

Eligibility includes:

Licensed or degree-holding social workers (BSW, MSW, or DSW) with a minimum of 3 years of experience serving in Western Pennsylvania

Organizations that demonstrate excellence in supporting social work practice and impact

Nominations can be submitted online at: www.theswagawards.com/nominate

Proudly Supported By
The 6th Annual SWAG Awards are made possible with the support of Allegheny County Department of Human Services, University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work, The Heinz Endowments, UPMC, and Staunton Farm Foundation.

Sponsorship Opportunities Available

Businesses, organizations, and community partners are invited to join the SWAG Alliance Foundation in celebrating and sustaining the social work profession. Sponsorship provides vital support for recognition, professional development, and wellness initiatives that strengthen the social work workforce year-round.

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit www.theswagawards.com/sponsor or email info@theswagawards.com.

About the SWAG Alliance Foundation
The SWAG Alliance Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening, sustaining, and celebrating the social work workforce through recognition, professional development, wellness initiatives, and financial support. Founded by Sharise Nance, the organization grew from the annual SWAG Awards into a year-round movement to uplift social workers and ensure the sustainability of the profession.

Visit www.theswagawards.com for more information.