Yokasta Lopez-Irving’s Impactful Path in Social Work

Yokasta Lopez-Irving’s story is not just one of professional achievement, but a testament to the transformative power of compassion and dedication in social work. From her early days as a volunteer at an after-school program in Sunset Park, Brooklyn, to her current roles impacting lives across multiple communities, Yokasta’s journey exemplifies resilience, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.

Early Beginnings and Educational Path
Graduating with a Master’s from Columbia University in 1999, Yokasta’s educational journey began long before that. Growing up in the Dominican Republic until the age of 10, she faced the challenges of adapting to a new country and a new language upon moving to the United States. Despite these obstacles, her passion for social work was ignited early, driven by mentors like Sister Geraldine and Sister Mary Paul, who recognized her potential and guided her towards a career that would define her life’s purpose.

Diverse Career Path and Impactful Roles
Yokasta’s career spans a rich tapestry of experiences across various social work domains. She spent significant years at Good Shepherd Services, where she immersed herself in community-based programs and school settings, such as PS 27 in Red Hook, Brooklyn. Her tenure there underscored her dedication to serving vulnerable populations, advocating for families, and ensuring children received the support needed to thrive academically and emotionally.

Transitioning to Staten Island, Yokasta continued her impactful journey, focusing on mental health programs at the Staten Island Mental Health Society and later contributing significantly to the Department of Education. Her roles extended beyond conventional boundaries; she delved into Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), forging deep connections within the autistic community. Her commitment to these children goes beyond professional duty; it’s a personal bond that has enriched her life as much as theirs.

Compassion in Action: Supporting Vulnerable Populations
One of the hallmarks of Yokasta’s career is her unwavering support for vulnerable populations, including elderly individuals and those with disabilities. Working extensively with seniors, she brings joy and companionship to their lives, often being the highlight of their week. Her use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and schema therapy has not only improved their mental well-being but also strengthened family dynamics, easing the burden on caregivers, and fostering environments of understanding and support.

Community Engagement and Cultural Sensitivity
Being culturally aware is a cornerstone of Yokasta’s approach. Her upbringing in a Latino community informs her practice profoundly, enabling her to connect deeply with immigrant families facing challenges such as language barriers and legal uncertainties. She has spearheaded initiatives like grant applications to fund proms and graduation attire for underserved students, demonstrating her commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities.

Educational Advocacy and Holistic Support
In her current role within the school system, Yokasta plays a pivotal role in advocating for children with special needs. She navigates the complexities of Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings with parents, ensuring every child’s educational journey is tailored to their unique requirements. Beyond academics, she introduces restorative circles as a therapeutic tool, creating safe spaces for students with emotional disabilities to express themselves and build crucial social-emotional skills.

Embracing Lifelong Learning and Community at SWEET Institute
Yokasta’s journey with the SWEET Institute is a testament to the power of lifelong learning and community. Her passion for education is not just a pursuit of knowledge but a deep-seated desire to continuously evolve and contribute. From eagerly absorbing new insights to cherishing the supportive network within SWEET, Yokasta finds inspiration and growth in every interaction and course. She values the diverse opportunities SWEET offers, each workshop and discussion leaving an indelible mark on her professional journey.

Beyond the intellectual enrichment, it’s the camaraderie and unwavering support from her SWEET family that resonates deeply with Yokasta. They provide not only a platform for learning but also a safe haven where she feels understood and valued.

In her busy life, juggling multiple roles, SWEET remains a constant source of learning and connection, a place where she can explore new horizons and cultivate meaningful relationships.

Personal Philosophy and Legacy
As she looks ahead, Yokasta envisions a legacy not just of personal achievement but of collective growth and empowerment, fueled by her ongoing commitment to education and community at SWEET. For Yokasta, social work isn’t just a profession; it’s a calling rooted in faith, resilience, and a profound belief in the potential of every individual she encounters. Her advice to aspiring social workers resonates deeply: stay true to yourself, remain humble, and never forget the transformative impact of education and cultural sensitivity. She exemplifies a lifelong learner, constantly seeking new knowledge to enhance her practice and leave a legacy of compassion and empowerment in the communities she serves.

Future Aspirations and Continued Impact
Looking ahead, Yokasta plans to expand her expertise in restorative practices, aiming to deepen her impact on students’ emotional well-being.  In addition to continuing to serve as a field supervisor to MSW students to impact our future therapists. Her dedication to continuous learning and community engagement ensures that her journey as a social worker remains vibrant and purposeful, inspiring countless others to follow in her footsteps.

In conclusion, Yokasta Lopez’s story is a testament to the profound difference one person can make through unwavering compassion, resilience, and a commitment to social justice. Her journey from humble beginnings to a respected advocate and educator serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us of the transformative power of empathy and dedication in shaping a brighter future for communities in need. Yokasta is a bilingual, bicultural, immigrant that incorporates faith, language, culture, humor, music, food, and love for humanity into everything she does!”