Our Crowdfunding Groups
Having social workers involved in policy making in Washington, D.C. is critical.
The Ohio State University College of Social Work knows the importance of this, and has teamed up with the University of Alabama School of Social Work to offer a unique opportunity for our students to experience policy analysis and advocacy at the national level.
This past March both schools traveled to Washington, D.C. with a group of students to share a two day experience that was filled with workshops on how to impact policy through advocacy, scheduled visits on Capitol Hill with members of Congress to advocate for legislation, and a networking reception with members of Congress, which included Ohio Congresswoman Joyce Beatty. Our students also had the opportunity to tour Capitol Hill, meet with NASW headquarters staff, and interact with alumni in the region.
OSU selected 15 students (PhD, MSW, BSSW) through an application and interview process. These students were chosen based off their interest in policy and advocacy, professionalism, and dedication to the social work profession. Participants in this program were required to attend several online meeting and trainings with Alabama and OSU staff.
This D.C. experience not only provides the participants with hands on experiences in our nation’s capital, but it also presents an opportunity for professional development, cross-generational exchange, and career advancement. A past participant Ahmed Hosni summarized his experience as “truly inspiring”.
For the 2018 D.C. Fly-In scheduled for March 20, the College would like to expand the trip and accommodate more students. Although the experiences from this trip are invaluable, the cost for each student averages $1000-$1500 (travel, hotel, food), making it cost prohibitive for many.
A donation to the D.C. Fly-In program will provide scholarships for OSU College of Social Work students to participate in this great opportunity, and ultimately to BE THE CHANGE in our nation’s capital!
