ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to determine whether there are differences in the factors that affect utilization of formal social supports by elderly American-born Blacks and West Indians living in New York City. Besides the fact that many social service programs have failed to improve the conditions of many Blacks who use them, there are other concerns. A 1982 report by the US Commission on Civil Rights indicates concerns about minority participation in Older Americans Act Programs. A central value premise accepted and supported by the social work profession is that each person is unique and has an inherent dignity that is to be respected. Social work, more than any other profession, is identified with helping people. The major features that set social work apart from other helping professions is the tradition of commitment: to serve, advocate, mediate and act as the social conscience for the poor, minority, disadvantaged, ill and disabled dependent members of society.
