
Partnerships
Aligning with social work values, we strive to meet the community’s needs through mutually beneficial collaborations. Through these collaborations, our students grapple with real-world problems, come to understand better the communities in which they live, and impact lives.
Join in our mission to drive social change.

PATH- Provider Assistance and Training Hub
PATH is an agency-based partnership dedicated to providing ongoing training and support to all Medicaid enrolled front line behavioral health practitioners and supervisors.

Community Learning Lab
The Community Learning Lab provides a connection to local organizations to support real-world projects that make a difference. It’s a unique opportunity to apply what you’re learning in class, build your resume, and create meaningful connections—all while contributing to your community in a powerful way.

Field Education Partners
Our 500+ field partners are an invaluable part of the School of Social Work’s mission to prepare future social work professionals. Field partners provide our students with hands-on learning opportunities where they can apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings.

Child Welfare Office of Evidence-Based Interventions
The Office focuses on the implementation of Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA) Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI).

Child Welfare Office of Workforce Development
The School of Social Work partners with DCFS to provide comprehensive child welfare training and development for employees, caregivers, and prospective workers.

Translational Research in Child Welfare
The Office of Translational Research partners with DCFS to support data-driven decision-making and program improvement for Illinois child welfare, promoting evidence-based practices and achieving diversity, equity, and inclusion goals.

Community Engagement
Our community engagement initiatives include impactful projects like the Racial Justice Art Series and the CU Resource Guide, connecting local residents to essential services and support. These efforts reflect our commitment to fostering equity and strengthening community connections.

BHWELL
Illinois BHWELL is a clinical certificate and scholarship program at the University of Illinois for MSW students who want to learn team-based models for integrating health and mental health services in primary care settings in rural and underserved areas.

Child Welfare Podcasts
The SSW partners with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services for two child welfare podcasts:
Translating Child Welfare Research Podcast explores research-driven solutions for child welfare practice.
Let’s Talk: An Illinois Child Welfare Podcast offers insights and tips for DCFS field workers and those interested in the field.