Mentorship
One key benefit of joining the Coalition of Black Social Workers is the opportunity to connect with experienced social work professionals of color. If you’re a student seeking mentorship, complete the Mentee Application. Once we receive your application, a member of the Coalition will contact you to get started.
If you’re a professional who wants to mentor and guide a social work student of color, please fill out the Mentor Application. Your experience and insights can make a lasting impact on the next generation of social workers.
Mentorship Expectations
- One point of contact per month during the academic year. This can include a phone check-in, meeting for coffee, attending a training, etc.
- Availability to answer questions, provide advice, and offer support
- A commitment of one year with your student
Benefits of Mentoring
- Enhance your leadership and coaching skills
- Give back to the community and your profession
- Enjoy the satisfaction of sharing your wisdom without a significant time commitment
- Stay up to date with current trends in the field
Membership
The Coalition of Black Social Workers (CBSW) is open to individuals who hold or are currently pursuing a BSW/BSSW, MSW/MSSW, DSW, or PhD in social work. Membership is available at two levels: Full CBSW Membership and Friend of the CBSW Membership.
Full CBSW Membership
This level is for students and professionals of African descent pursuing or completing a degree in social work.
- Mentoring opportunities
- Closed student group discussions for connection, support, and empowerment
- Eligibility to run for CBSW student group officer positions
- Opportunity to serve as a CBSW Board Member
- Access to the closed CBSW Facebook Group
Friend of the CBSW Membership
This level is for students and professionals not of African descent but still pursuing or have completed a degree in social work.
- Access to CBSW trainings, conferences, and educational opportunities
- Participation in Social Justice Field Trips
- Opportunities to support Full CBSW Members
- Access to the CBSW Facebook Page and Instagram account
How it started
The Coalition of Black Social Workers was created through the Social Justice Innovation Initiative at the College of Social Work. Launched with the goal of increasing diversity within the College and providing networking and mentoring opportunities for students of color, the Coalition was one of several projects funded by the initiative in 2018. This initiative, made possible by a generous gift from longtime College supporter Susan Cooper, focuses on addressing critical education, healthcare, and social justice issues. The 2018 focus, “Working to Stop Racism,” inspired creative projects challenging community social injustices.
