Chris Wickramasekera-Chariton grew up as the youngest of eight children, so she learned at an early age how to get along with people. In a subsequent career that involved several national law enforcement agencies, she got a firsthand look at other people who didn't have her people skills.

So when she decided upon a second career after leaving law enforcement, she choose social work. It was a decision that pays off every time she's able to help a child overcome severe obstacles and a dysfunctional family life.

And last month, it paid off with the recognition of her peers as the Dyer resident was named the 2009 Social Worker of the Year by the National Association of Social Workers Indiana Chapter.

"It was very humbling," she said. "I was very surprised by it. But it's nice to be recognized for all the hard work I've put in.

"I absolutely love doing this and working with people. I think I was born to be a social worker."

Wickramasekera-Chariton, who now manages two day treatment centers in Michigan City, has had a lot of experiences that have helped her to fashion a world view essential to success in social work. Her primary influence, she said, was her father, who taught her many of the essential life lessons she relies upon today.

"My father taught me that if you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem," she said.

That bit of advice guides her actions day in and day out.

"If, at the end of the day, I've helped one person, then it's been a good day," she said.