Richard Barth. Photo by Peter Howard.

National Association of Social Workers member Richard Barth’s research has helped lawmakers improve child welfare, according to this article in the Chronicle of Higher Education.

Barth, dean and a professor of social work at the University of Maryland at Baltimore, this year earned the distinguished-achievement award from the Society for Social Work and Research.

His research helped persuade Congress to pass legislation to remove barriers that prevent parents from adopting children from another race. Barth’s work on homelessness among former foster children also influenced legislation to extend financial support to children who are not ready to leave home at 18.

Barth and his wife, who is also a social worker, adopted two children. His experiences in the child welfare system on a personal level helped shape his career and research.

“Being a client as well as a professor is both humbling and identifies areas where you realize there are major gaps,” Barth said.

To learn more about how social workers such as Richard Barth help children visit NASW’s “Help Starts Here” Adoptions and Foster Care Web page by clicking here.