"Social work," writes Alice Lieberman, "is the only profession for whom social justice is a core value." The fifteen extraordinary women profiled in this book have lived this core value to the furthest extent. Each of these women has used the teachings of the social work profession to enact profound social change in communities around the world.

This book describes the risks taken and sacrifices made by women from places as varied as Tanzania and East Baltimore, as different as India and Wisconsin, by women who undertake the heavy tasks of providing housing and food for HIV positive community members and designing programs for elder care in impoverished communities. These stories, told through personal interviews, prove that determination and strength of character can trump even the most intimidating hardships and obstacles.

Women in Social Work Who Have Changed the World is an absorbing, inspirational must-read for all social workers who have ever felt overwhelmed by the task of improving the lives of their clients, or for anyone who has ever doubted that one person can make an impact.