Kalamazoo Times

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University is launching a new initiative aimed at bolstering the child welfare workforce in Michigan. The initiative seeks to address the current shortage of qualified workers, particularly in underserved populations.

In collaboration with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and four other public universities, Western is partaking in the new Title IV-E Program. This program offers stipends to social work students who commit to working in public, private, or tribal welfare sectors within Michigan communities after graduation.

"I'm really excited for this training program because it gives us an opportunity to address these concerns within the system," said Dr. Anna Yelick, assistant professor of social work and Title IV-E Program coordinator at WMU. "It's really going to set our students up for success as they move into their future careers."

The MDHHS has allocated $1.7 million to fund the program. Title IV-E Fellows will receive a $5,000 stipend per semester to help cover tuition costs. Undergraduate social work students are eligible for stipends for up to two semesters, while graduate students can receive them for up to four semesters.

"Supporting social work students financially as they prepare to enter the child welfare workforce is critical to the strong recruitment and retention of dedicated professionals," stated Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. "A program like this has the potential to attract highly motivated and capable students and ensure a workforce committed to protecting children and supporting families."

Participants will have access to specialized coursework focused on child welfare, including seminars hosted at Western and other participating universities. Additionally, free training sessions will be available that can fulfill some preservice training requirements for child welfare professionals. Western students will also complete a field practicum within a child welfare agency.

"Our ultimate hope is that students will transition from intern into employee—that it would be seamless," Yelick added. "This really gives them a leg up because … they already have a foot in the door. They've already made connections and already have a caseload."

Other institutions involved include University of Michigan, Central Michigan University, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University. Western's first cohort will commence in fall 2024.

For more information about participating in this program, interested individuals should contact Dr. Anna Yelick.

For additional news on WMU events and updates, visit WMU News online.

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