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On April 2, which is Social Workers’ Day, the Taichung City Government's Social Affairs Bureau hosted the 2024 Taichung City Social Worker Recognition Ceremony, honoring 60 social workers and one practicing safety organization. Director Liao Ching-chih of the Social Affairs Bureau attended the event and expressed appreciation for social workers from diverse backgrounds. These professionals adeptly leverage a range of resources, offering support and protection to those in need, serving as a robust backbone and delivering prompt welfare assistance.

Director Liao noted that this year's ceremony carries the theme “Hello, Ocean,” comparing social workers to waves advancing and overcoming obstacles, and positively impacting the lives of those they serve, bringing hope and promising futures. The trophies, designed around the concept of an hourglass, symbolize the dedication of social workers in investing their time and energy to support others. This dedication transforms into a substantial force that aids families in overcoming challenges, offering opportunities for disadvantaged families to turn their lives around!

The Social Affairs Bureau noted that the recognition ceremony features eight awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award, Special Contribution Award, Torchbearer Award, Outstanding Supervision Award, Outstanding Social Worker Award, Emerging Supervisor Award, Emerging Social Worker Award, and Practicing Safety Award. Chen Kun-huang, recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award and currently serving as Deputy Director of Taichung City Government's Social Affairs Bureau, has worked across various fields such as children, adolescents, women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Notably, he has dedicated nearly a decade to child and adolescent welfare, never forgetting why he started in promoting social services. He integrates interdisciplinary professional knowledge to address the needs of service recipients, striving to help them overcome challenges and find happiness.

Additionally, the recognition ceremony invited last year's recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award, Wang Hsiu-yen, and the Special Contribution Award, Sun Te-li, as presenters for the Emerging Social Worker Award, Emerging Supervisor Award, and Outstanding Supervisor Award, symbolizing the passing down of the spirit and mission of social workers. 

The Social Affairs Bureau noted that the aim of the ceremony is to acknowledge and bring recognition to the diligent efforts of social workers who often work behind the scenes. They also expressed hope that all these unsung heroes can take pride in their contributions. This year's dress code was “Ocean Wonders,” and attendees were encouraged to dress in blue or attire reflecting marine elements, embodying the spirit of “You’ll be there, I’ll be there.” It signifies that social workers will always be there whenever needed, and that the city government is social workers’ staunchest ally.

The Social Affairs Bureau added that to express gratitude for the dedication and hard work of social workers, the Jian Xian Si Qi Education Foundation, represented by Director Lu Wan-ping, generously provided hotel accommodation vouchers to all 60 award recipients. This gesture is intended to offer both mental and physical relief to social workers. Additionally, the Bureau has produced a professional video titled “What Do Social Workers Do?” to highlight the professionalism of social workers. The video will be shared on the “Social Love Warms Taichung” Facebook fan page (https://www.facebook.com/tccgsoc/), aiming to provide insight into the various aspects of social work and deepen public understanding of the enthusiastic efforts made by social workers to assist others. Today's ceremony was attended by city council member Shen Yu-lien, Chief Secretary Li Hsi-chi of the East District Office. Vice President Chiang Chi-chen of the Legislative Yuan, legislators Lo Ting-wei and Liao Wei-hsiang. City council members Cheng Kung-chin, Lin Pei-han, Chen Wen-cheng, Chen Cheng-hsien, Chu Yuan-hung, Huang Shou-ta, Huang Hsin-hui, and Chen Ya-hui also sent representatives to join the event and show support.