About Us
Connect. Support. Empower. Thrive.
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About The Social Work Ladies Collective
About The Social Work Ladies Collective
Based in the New York City metropolitan area, The Social Work Ladies Collective, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the well-being and professional sustainability of women and femme-identifying social workers, mental health professionals and human service professionals. We create intentional spaces for connection, wellness, growth, and collective care so that those who dedicate their lives to supporting others can also feel supported, restored, and sustained.
While our work centers women in social work and mental health, we believe that wellness, connection, resources, and opportunities for personal and professional growth should be accessible to the broader community. Some of our events and programs welcome children, families, and community members, creating inclusive spaces to connect, learn, recharge, and access meaningful resources together.
Our Story & Vision
Our Story & Vision
The Social Work Ladies Collective began with a simple belief: the people who spend their lives caring for others deserve spaces to be cared for, supported, and connected, too.
Social work is meaningful work, but it can also be incredibly demanding. Social workers carry the weight of complex systems, high caseloads, limited resources, and the emotional experiences of the people they serve. Over time, that stress can become overwhelming. Burnout is common, and for many, the question becomes not only How do I keep doing this work? but How long can I stay in this field?
Dilim Dieke experienced this reality firsthand. She understood the pressure of constantly showing up for others while navigating the demands of the profession herself. She also saw how easily social workers could become isolated, connected to colleagues through their workplaces, but lacking spaces to build community, talk honestly about their experiences, recharge, and be reminded that they were not alone.
In 2024, Dilim began bringing social workers together through informal gatherings and community events. What started as a way to create connection quickly revealed a deeper need. Social workers wanted more than another networking event. They wanted community; spaces where they could be themselves outside of their professional roles, connect with people who understood the work, prioritize their wellness, and continue growing without feeling like they had to navigate the profession alone.
As those gatherings grew, so did the vision. As of October 2025, The Social Work Ladies Collective became a nonprofit dedicated to creating the support system social workers deserve; providing the community, resources, and opportunities needed to build sustainable careers and lives that feel whole.
We believe that supporting social workers is an investment in the communities they serve. When the people who care for others have access to community, resources, and opportunities to care for themselves, they are better positioned to sustain their work and continue making an impact.
Our Mission
Our Mission
To support the well-being and professional sustainability of women and femme-identifying social workers and mental health professionals by creating opportunities for connection, wellness, professional growth, and access to meaningful resources and financial support.
How We Care
How We Care
Care for Those Who Care
We care through community, wellness, resources, and collective support.
We don’t just support social workers - we strengthen the people who hold our communities together.
Impact
Impact
Since its founding, SWLC has grown into a thriving community of support and connection.
Our Board of Directors & Leadership Team
The Social Work Ladies Collective, Inc. is guided by social work professionals and community leaders committed to advancing the well-being and professional sustainability of social workers, human service and mental health professionals.
Our collaborative leadership model brings together Board Members, Program Leaders, Advisors, interns, and volunteers who share their expertise and passion to strengthen our programs, expand our reach, and create meaningful opportunities for social workers, human service and mental health professionals.
Dilim Dieke, LMSW, SIFI
Dilim Dieke, LMSW, SIFI
Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Board President
Rebeeca Torres-Carrion, MSW
Rebeeca Torres-Carrion, MSW
Wellness Experiences Program Manager
Board Member
Britney Hibbert, LMSW
Britney Hibbert, LMSW
Community Engagement Program Manager
Board Member
Madelyn O'Leary
Madelyn O'Leary
Development & Community Partnerships Manager
Kendra Pollidore-Mulzac, LMSW
Kendra Pollidore-Mulzac, LMSW
Professional Development Program Manager
Cristina Bergara, LMSW
Cristina Bergara, LMSW
Student Ambassador & Leadership Program Manager
"Everyone is so kind, and this community truly feels like a safe and welcoming space."
- SWLC Community Member
“It’s great to connect with others who understand the work we do, but in a relaxed, informal setting. Social work can be incredibly stressful, so it’s refreshing to have spaces like the Collective to unwind, make new friends, and build meaningful connections.”
- SWLC Community Member
Join Our Community
Join Our Community
We’re building a stronger, more connected community for social workers, human service and mental health professionals, and the people who believe in the work they do. Whether you’re looking for connection, professional growth, wellness, or ways to give back, there’s a place for you in the Social Work Ladies Collective.
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