WACO, Texas (ABP) -A generation of Spanish-speaking Christian social workers may enter the workforce in a few years, thanks to a collaborative venture launched by Baptist University of the Americas, Baylor University's School of Social Work and Buckner Baptist Benevolences.
Baptist University of the Americas will develop a minor in social work. Buckner will provide staff member Patty Villareal to the historically Hispanic school in San Antonio, Texas. And Baylor's School of Social Work will make available consultation and faculty exchange.
Long-term plans call for Baptist University of the Americas to develop a bachelor's degree in social work, with the idea that these students can work on graduate studies at Baylor. Many are likely to pursue dual graduate degrees, enrolling both in the School of Social Work and Truett Theological Seminary, said Diana Garland, dean of the Baylor School of Social Work.”We need the rich diversity that Baptist University of the Americas can bring to our student body,” Garland said.
Albert Reyes, president of Baptist University of the Americas, said Hispanic growth in Texas and the United States points to a need for trained, bilingual leaders in Spanish-speaking communities, and now “the pipeline is open” to supply them.
Ken Hall, president of Buckner Baptist Benevolences, pointed to the need for bilingual social workers at his agency, which is affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas. “Worldwide issues affecting children and families should be the concern and responsibility of caring Christians,” he said. “We need to start allocating resources – including the resources of dedicated, committed, highly trained Christian social workers – to help meet those needs.”
Garland predicted many BUA students will return to Central and South America after they complete their education. “This is a wonderful way to provide persons with the knowledge and skills for work within their home communities,” she said.