Social Worker - Making a Difference in Your Community

Social Worker

2/25/25

Cassie Pustilnik is the executive director of Youth Research Inc. YRI is "a responsive research, program, and policy organization that supports the New York Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) 

What’s it like to have a job where your whole mission is helping people? In this episode of How Much Can I Make?, Mirav chats with Cassie, a seasoned social worker with 20 years of experience making a real difference in people’s lives.

Cassie breaks down what a career in social work really looks like—hint: it’s way more than just working with kids and families. From mental health crisis response to connecting folks with vital public services, to working in hospitals and community programs, this field is as diverse as it is impactful.

Thinking about a career change into something more meaningful? Cassie shares candid career insights, the emotional ups and downs of the job, and what keeps her motivated after two decades in the field. If you’re driven by compassion and want a job that truly matters, this episode is a must-listen.

Resources
National Association of Social Workers - New York State Chapter
New York State Society for Clinical Social Work
Adelphi University - How to Become a Social Worker in New York

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