Being involved in social work means applying for grants and knowing how to pitch ideas to nonprofit boards. So Tammy Rice requires all social work students to experience this first-hand. They are graded for their pitch, but more importantly, money is awarded by the United Way of Northwest Georgia to complete a project needed in the community. 

A panel from United Way listens to the projects, which are proposed for the annual Make a Difference day. They have $250 to award to the winning proposal. 

Every aspect of the proposed projects must be detailed, including line items for each cost and where any additional donations are coming from. 

The panel asks questions - why the projects are important, how they will be sustained long term, why this is needed, and more. 

The panel expresses concerns and gives feedback to the groups. The project chosen this year involves adding visual elements and other sensory items to a special needs room at Pleasant Grove Elementary School. The students will plant flowers and put birdhouses outside the classroom window, paint the walls vibrant colors, and add a sensory corner. 

The project was well thought out, included several details, and met a specific need that was expressed by the school. 

All of these social work students will volunteer to help Make a Difference in the community on Saturday, Oct. 22. But they also learned valuable lessons about grant proposals and pitching projects that they'll take with them throughout their career. 

posted 10/10/2016 in Academics

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