Addressing a Homeless Services Workforce Deficit Through Collaborative Social Work Field Placements

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ABSTRACT

As homelessness continues to pose a significant social problem in many urban areas, service agencies rely on social workers to fulfill a critical role. However, recruitment and retention of social workers for high-demand fields, such as homeless services, is challenging. This study offers a formative analysis of a master’s of social work field education program that brings multiple universities and service agencies together, with the Corporation for Supportive Housing in Los Angeles serving as lead convener. The preliminary efficacy of the collaborative field placement model is examined through a program stakeholder analysis and extensive literature review. Findings inform program enhancements and revisions. Evidence-based recommendations for communities interested in improving social worker recruitment and retention through a collaborative field placement program are offered.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Donna Gallup

Donna Gallup is assistant professor at Azusa Pacific University.

Joseph Briglio

Joseph Briglio is with the Economic & Community Development Department for Happy Valley, Oregon.

Elizabeth Devaney

Elizabeth Devaney is CEO at Students Rising Above.

Dominique Samario

Dominique Samario is with the Neighborhood Services and Public Safety Department, City of Goleta, California.

Danielle Veldman

Danielle Veldman is a senior consultant with Inclusive Performance Strategies.

Alessandra Cianni

Alessandra Cianni is in private practice at Lifescape Counseling Services.

Dara Papel

Dara Papel is senior program manager at Corporation for Supportive Housing.