In addition to leading the Association of Baccalaureate Social Work Program Directors based in Alexandria, VA, Amanda Scott is a big advocate for the therapeutic power of knitting. At the basic level, knitting is Amanda’s way to check out, reflect, and process while creating something beautiful amidst the chaos of our everyday lives. We’re so for that!

Amanda will be joining us at Upswell next month, and shared a bit with us about what motivates her and what she’s hoping to gain from the opportunity to mingle for a few days with 1,500 people who are passionate about improving our world.

Q: In a few sentences, tell us who you are – what drives you, what you’re working on, and why you’re inspired to make the world a better place.

AS: My name is Amanda Scott and I’m a social worker, working for a nonprofit membership association. My passion for people drives me. I strive to help others see their worth, achieve their goals, and recognize their greatness. I’m inspired to make the world a better place by the people that I encounter every day. When I meet somebody who has overcome obstacles that are unfathomable to me, I am encouraged and motivated.

Q: What’s your favorite way to relax?

AS: Knitting is my favorite way to relax. I’ve found it to be very therapeutic and a great way for me to explore my own creativity. Whenever I’m overwhelmed or need to think through a tough problem, I pick up my needles and by the time I’m done I’m much calmer and often have a game plan to address my issue.

Q: If income weren’t a consideration and you could do anything, what would you do – and why?

AS: If income weren’t a consideration and I could do anything, I would teach knitting as a therapeutic process. Over the years, I have met so many people who are just overwhelmed with life and the things that they are bombarded with through social media and other things in the world. These people have no outlet, no way of “turning it off” for a while so that they can process things. My desire would be to give them a practical skill that’s calming and allows them to produce something beautiful amidst the chaos.

Q: What excites you most about Upswell?

AS: I’m most excited about meeting other passionate people at Upswell who actually care about other people. In the course of a day, I’m so concerned with solving problems and dealing with the mundane that I am left uninspired and tired. I am excited about Upswell being a place where I can become reenergized about the work that I do and what I can contribute to my community.