"As Canadians, we are all touched by some aspect of social welfare, either as recipients, donors, or taxpayers. But despite the importance of the social network in our country, there has been no single source of information about this critical component of our society. Even professionals in the field of social work or social services have not had a comprehensive volume addressing the myriad features of this critical societal structure. The Encyclopedia of Canadian Social Work fills this need." "Over five hundred topics important to Canadian social work are covered, written by a highly diverse group of social workers representing all aspects of the field and all areas of the country. Practitioners, policy makers, academics, social advocates, researchers, students, and administrators present a rich overview of the complexity and diversity of social work and social welfare as it exists in Canada." "The principal finding from this project upholds the long-held perception that there is a uniquely Canadian model of social work that stands as a useful model for other countries. The Encyclopedia of Canadian Social Work is an important source of information for both Canadians and interested groups around the world."--Jacket.