The “Why” Behind the Work: Social Workers in Adolescent Health
Behind every training, resource, and conversation at Fact Forward is a deeper intention to ensure that young people feel seen, heard, and supported. This Social Work Month, we are highlighting three of the social workers behind that mission, each bringing their own experiences, perspectives, and passion to the work. While our roles may look different day to day, we are united by a shared belief that when young people are equipped with the right information, support, and space to grow, they have the power to make informed decisions and thrive. Social work at Fact Forward extends beyond traditional settings. It shows up in how we design programs, support communities, center youth voices, and advocate for healthier futures. In the reflections below, we share a glimpse into our journeys, how we use social work in this space, and why this work matters in advancing adolescent health.
Brittany Sydnor, MSW, LCSWA
Digital Media Specialist
Experience being a social worker
My journey into social work didn’t start in a traditional clinical space. It started with a passion for public health and a deep curiosity about how people make decisions, especially about their bodies, relationships, and overall wellbeing. This influenced my decision to pursue my MSW. I realized that so much of what shapes those decisions is rooted in how people are supported, or not supported, in their environments. As a social worker, I’ve learned to look beyond the surface. To understand the “why” behind behaviors, to hold space without judgment, and to recognize the impact of systems, relationships, and past experiences on present day choices.
How you use social work skills at Fact Forward
At Fact Forward, my role may sit in communications, but my approach is rooted in social work. Every piece of content, every campaign, and every story we tell is an opportunity to center people intentionally, respectfully, and authentically.
I see myself as a bridge-builder. Someone who connects the micro experience of individual healing with the macro lens of public health. I use social work skills to ensure that the information we share is not only accurate, but also accessible, affirming, and grounded in empathy. Whether it’s translating complex topics into relatable messaging or uplifting youth-centered narratives, I’m always thinking about how our work can meet people where they are.
Why social work matters in adolescent health
Social work matters in adolescent health because young people are navigating some of the most formative and complex stages of their lives. They are developing their identities, building relationships, and making decisions that can impact their futures, often while facing barriers, stigma, or a lack of support.
Social workers bring a lens that prioritizes the whole person. We consider emotional wellbeing, environmental factors, relationships, and access to resources, not just outcomes. In adolescent health, that lens is critical. I believe that when people are seen, heard, and supported, they have the power to make informed choices and thrive in every area of their lives. Social work helps create the conditions for that to happen, not just at the individual level but across communities.