Student Social Work Association to be honored at Legacy Awards

The Student Social Work Association (SSWA) at Ohio University Southern will receive the Dr. Charles Jarrett Emerging Leader Award at the upcoming Legacy Awards ceremony on Jan. 28 at 5:30 p.m. in the Riffe Rotunda.

Hosted by Ohio University Southern, the event celebrates individuals, students and organizations for their leadership, advocacy and contributions to the community as part of the annual Community Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The ceremony is free and open to the public.

The SSWA is being recognized for its commitment to serving unhoused populations, promoting social justice and fostering inclusion through a variety of community-focused initiatives. The group’s efforts include organizing clothing drives, distributing supplies to those in need and hosting events like Trunk or Treat to engage the community.

“We collect items like socks, coats, sweaters, hand warmers and food to help people get through the cold months,” said Brittney Marinich, an SSWA member. “These items are distributed in areas like Ashland, Ironton and Huntington, based on where the need is greatest.”

For Marinich and the SSWA, the work is about more than providing essentials, it’s also about dignity and compassion.

“You can see it in their faces and their eyes,” she said, speaking of the people they’ve helped. “When someone shows kindness and acknowledges them as human beings, it makes a real difference.”

The SSWA also addresses the stigma surrounding unhoused populations.

“It’s easier for many people to turn away and not acknowledge those who are struggling,” Marinich said. “But there are so many factors that contribute to someone becoming unhoused—mental health issues, lack of a support system. Without friends or family to rely on, any one of us could find ourselves in the same situation.”

The association’s efforts have been met with strong community support.

“We’ve been fortunate to have churches, family and friends come forward with donations of canned goods, winter clothing and more,” said Marinich. “They come out in full force and really help us.”

Receiving the Dr. Charles Jarrett Emerging Leader Award is a meaningful moment for the SSWA.

“Social work is often a thankless job,” Marinich said. “This recognition is motivating for all of us. It shows that our efforts are valued and encourages other students to join our mission.”

The association draws inspiration from the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

“His dedication to justice, equality and peace through nonviolence is incredibly inspiring,” Marinich said. “Despite the barriers we may face, it will be worth it.”

As the SSWA continues its work, the group remains motivated by a shared commitment to be there for others.

“We’ve all had moments in our lives when we needed someone,” Marinich said. “To have the chance to be that person for someone else is what keeps us going.”