Coventry resident Debra Manteghi was named Social Worker of the Year as a part of the 2008 awards presented by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), at the Region Two Annual Awards Banquet. The program was held on April 9 at the Martin Center.

Manteghi, an Akron Public Schools employee, is the program manager and district homeless education liaison for Project RISE. Over the last 10 years she has also served as a part-time instructor for Family and Consumer Sciences at the University of Akron.

Manteghi has many talents including being an excellent writer, grant writer, speaker and facilitator. Her job is very demanding yet she finds time to volunteer and play an important part with NASW, the Community Welfare Forum, Emergency Assistance Task Force and the Women’s History Project.

During the awards presentation, Manteghi was described as creative, a person   who stands up for what she believes in, and is a strong advocate for oppressed populations, such as homeless non-English speaking families.

Manteghi has been instrumental in assisting homeless or youth of poverty. She urges them to become somebody, against all odds. In her work with youth, she has a reputation of being patient and encouraging teens to express themselves. She often looked for opportunities to showcase their talents.

Manteghi created a family literacy program for Hispanic homeless families and has worked to enhance youth advocacy in shelters with programs that enrich the lives of victims of domestic violence and their children. Shelter residents now benefit from regularly scheduled tutoring, school transportation, parent RISING (a support group), art and theatre programs, and shelter field trips. The NASW congratulated her and applauds her for her work m advocacy and spirit.

The NASW was established in 1955 through the consolidation of several organizations. It promotes, develops and protects the practice of social work and social workers. The association also seeks to enhance the well being of individuals, families and communities through its work.