GoodWork in the Caring Professions

Through our various studies of good work, we have collected data on individuals doing work
in the “caring professions” domains that directly serve people in need or seek to effect broad
social change. The following studies have illuminated the beliefs, goals, and strategies of
individuals striving to do good work in the service of others:

Social Entrepreneurs (2002): While other caring professionals follow more
traditional paths and operate within existing structures to help others, social
entrepreneurs are individuals who approach a social problem with entrepreneurial
spirit and business acumen. As part of the Young Professionals Project, we
interviewed 17 social entrepreneurs between the ages of 30 and 43.
Community Service (1997-2003): As part of the Young Professionals Project,
we spoke with young people (ranging in age from 10 to 18 years old) who
were involved in community service.
Albert Schweitzer Fellows (1998-2002): As part of the Young Professionals
Project, we interviewed participants in The Albert Schweitzer Fellowship program,
which provides opportunities for graduate students in the fields of health and
social service to develop community-based projects in the United States or at the
Albert Schweitzer Hospital in West Central Africa. Interviews were conducted
with 18 Schweitzer fellows who were in the last stages of graduate training
and former fellows who were early in their careers in the fields of medicine,
public health, social work, or occupational therapy.
Nursing (2005): A study of nursing which draws on the concepts, methodology,
and protocols of the Good Work Project has been conducted by Dr. Joan Miller,
Bloomsburg University in Pennsylvania. The purpose of this study was to explore
variables that have sustained entering and experienced professional nurses in
their attempts to perform good work despite the challenges they encounter in
today’s rapidly changing health care environment. Guided interviews were
conducted with eight entering nurses and 16 experienced nurses who were
mid-level managers or leaders in the profession.