Book Highlights Resilience of Social Workers Protecting Abused Women in New Taipei City

New Taipei City celebrated the launch of "Walking Against the Light: Records of Protection by 17 Senior Social Workers," a new book highlighting the profound impact of social workers in the region. The New Taipei City Social Affairs Bureau organized the event, showcasing the dedication and resilience of professionals who serve vulnerable populations across various sectors.

The book delves into the personal journeys and professional experiences of 17 seasoned social workers. Their stories span critical areas such as child welfare, support for women facing abuse, services for individuals with disabilities, and mental health care. Among those featured is Li Yu-hua, director of the Gushan Service Center at the Garden of Hope Foundation. Her narrative is particularly poignant, as she channels her own childhood trauma into a powerful force for protecting abused women.

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The light against the dark is very dazzling, but social workers uphold their original intentions, always on standby, to find a way out for the families, a place with light, like Bodhisattvas and thousand-armed Guanyins on earth.

Li Yu-hua's personal connection to her work stems from a devastating mining accident in 1984 that claimed her father's life on her fifth birthday. Following the tragedy, her mother struggled to raise three young children, eventually relying on government assistance. This early experience of hardship and support sowed the seeds for Li Yu-hua's lifelong commitment to helping others. She now integrates social welfare services with housing support, offering a comprehensive "three-in-one" approach to empower women through initiatives like the "Good Times" cafe.

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The value of social work comes from the confidence of defending the rights and interests of cases on the front line.

New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih, deeply moved by the book's contents, drew parallels to his own early career in law enforcement, where he counseled young people recently released from prison. He emphasized that social work often involves confronting society's most challenging issues. Hou urged social workers and aspiring professionals to remember their core mission, stressing that the depth and breadth of one's calling are more significant than professional titles or positions.

Social Affairs Bureau Director Li Mei-chen added that true professionalism in social work lies in the courage to navigate difficult circumstances. She acknowledged the emotional toll and feelings of powerlessness that can accompany the profession but encouraged colleagues to draw strength from their frontline advocacy for clients' rights. The book also serves as a testament to the social welfare policies implemented in New Taipei City over the past 16 years, aiming to inspire more individuals to join the city's service teams.

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Her mother originally hoped she would study in the normal education system, but due to her childhood experiences and inspiration, the seed of wanting to help others gradually sprouted, and she resolutely chose the field of social work.