'The life narratives, voices, or actual experiences contained in this book reflect the spiritual awakenings, desires to make a difference in the quality of life, and the day-to-day realities of social workers in action. These narratives offer contemporary insights and beg the question: Why were you called to this profession? The passion for social justice and meaningful activities, the dedication to compassion, and the commitment to building community connections and healing journeys are only a few of the motivational themes that [emerge from this book]' - Paula Allen-Meares, University of Michigan The Call to Social Work is based on a simple question: What can we learn by listening to the stories about the work of the social worker? The result is a collection of passionate stories told in vivid detail about social workers' efforts to contribute to compassion and justice in the world, to pursue social transformations, and to provide a vision for a better way of living.Providing students and those interested in social work with a glimpse of what it is like to do social work or to be a social worker, the book shows why people become social workers and what meaning they derive from their work.