Building Community Through Care: Reflections on the Blue Table Food Drive in Western New York
During my time serving as Division Director for the Western New York Division of the National Association of Social Workers, New York State Chapter, one of the most meaningful initiatives I had the opportunity to help support was the Blue Table Food Drive.
The initiative reflected something I believe deeply about social work and community leadership. When institutions, professionals, and community members come together with a shared commitment to care, meaningful impact becomes possible.
The Blue Table Food Drive was built around a simple but powerful idea. Support local families while strengthening the connection between social workers, universities, and the communities they serve.
A Collaborative Effort Across Campuses
This effort came to life through collaboration with Alfred State College and Alfred University, two institutions that have long demonstrated a strong commitment to civic engagement and community wellbeing.
Working together, we were able to create an initiative grounded in dignity, compassion, and practical support for families across Western New York.
Partnerships like these are especially important in rural and regional communities where access to resources can sometimes be limited. Universities often serve as powerful anchors within their communities, and when academic institutions partner with social workers and local organizations, the impact can extend far beyond campus boundaries.
Leadership That Strengthens Community
The success of the Blue Table Food Drive was made possible through the dedication of many individuals who brought both vision and commitment to the effort.
I remain deeply grateful for the leadership and support of Dr. Shakira Kennedy, Executive Director of NASW–NY, and Takara Emmanuel, Division Liaison and Membership Associate at NASW–NY. Their guidance and partnership helped make it possible to bring the initiative forward and connect the necessary resources to support the effort.
The work was further strengthened through collaboration with campus leaders who share a deep commitment to student and community wellbeing.
This included Cyan Corwin, Director of Global Engagement and Civic Wellbeing at Alfred State College, whose work continues to build strong bridges between campus initiatives and community engagement.
At Alfred University, the initiative was supported by Maria Bentley, MHC, Assistant Dean of the School of Art and Design, who brought thoughtful leadership and a clear dedication to student engagement and community care.
I was also honored to collaborate with Dr. Brian M. Saltsman, Inclusive Excellence scholar and educator, whose work in higher education continues to center equity, belonging, and community wellbeing.
Each of these leaders contributed not only their expertise, but also their heart for strengthening the communities around them.
Social Work in Action
For me, the Blue Table Food Drive reflected something essential about the profession of social work.
Social workers are often associated with clinical work, counseling, and direct services. While those roles are critical, social work is equally about community building, advocacy, and creating systems of support that allow individuals and families to thrive.
Food drives, community partnerships, and civic initiatives may seem simple on the surface, but they represent an important part of how communities take care of one another.
They remind us that dignity matters. Access to basic resources matters. And collaboration across institutions can make a meaningful difference.
Strengthening the Culture of Care in Western New York
Western New York continues to show up in powerful ways when communities come together with shared purpose.
The Blue Table Food Drive was one example of how social workers, educators, and community leaders can work collectively to strengthen the culture of care that our region is known for.
I remain grateful to have been part of this effort during my time as Division Director for NASW Western New York, and I continue to believe deeply in the power of partnerships like these.
When professionals across disciplines unite around compassion, dignity, and service, communities grow stronger.
And that is the heart of social work.
About the Author
Amira Martin-Saltsman, LCSW-R is a licensed clinical social worker, educator, and founder of MA Therapy, LLC. She earned her Master of Social Work from the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College (Class of 2001) and has spent her career working in clinical practice, education, and community advocacy.
She previously served as Division Director for the Western New York Division of the National Association of Social Workers, New York State Chapter, and currently serves on the Board of Directors for NAMI-NYS.
Professor Martin-Saltsman teaches at Columbia University School of Social Work and provides keynote presentations, workshops, and wellness programming focused on mental health, belonging, and community wellbeing.