June, 15 2026
At the University of Washington School of Social Work, students are advancing social and economic justice and strengthening communities. This spring, students brought that mission to life through the Grand Challenges for Social Work Student Design Projects as they develop and test solutions to some of today’s most pressing social issues.
The Grand Challenges for Social Work is a national initiative that calls on social workers to take on large, complex problems such as reducing inequality, improving health, ending social isolation and supporting safe communities. On May 27, 2026, five interdisciplinary teams presented their work partnering with community organizations and delivering measurable impact.
Role-Playing Games Build Connection: Shoshana Benjamin, Isaac A. Sanders, Fenn Crane, Juliann Li Verdugo and Lane Koughan
The “Roll with Hope” project used tabletop role-playing games to strengthen connection and decision-making skills in a low-pressure setting. Participants demonstrated strong collaboration and a consistent focus on centering others’ perspectives. The team plans to expand the model for classroom use.
Advancing Accessibility for Students: Adelheid Cassidy, Jesse Mauk and Sarah Miller
This team explored barriers faced by students with disabilities through surveys, focus groups and a student forum. Their recommendations include expanding universal design practices, increasing online learning options and strengthening cross-campus partnerships. Training resources are now in development.
Trauma-Informed Yoga Supports Recovery: Melissa Reyes, Heidi Wiley, Sara Asrat, Elena Buffington and Jessica Roach
In partnership with Evergreen Recovery Center, this team led six trauma-informed yoga workshops for mothers in substance use treatment. Participants reported a 47% decrease in anxiety. The program will continue with future interns and expand into a twice-yearly series that incorporates additional body-based healing practices.
Community Care in Action: Clarissa Perez and Marissa Ma
This BASW-led project created a Healing Justice Community Care Lab featuring a sound bath, sharing circle and resource navigation. Participants gained knowledge of community care and local resources. The team has already provided direct support to a young mother facing eviction, helping connect her to legal and housing assistance.
Strengthening Family Connections Through Storytelling: Danisha Harris, June Shin and Sylvia Wang
This project developed a workshop model to support reconnection between immigrant mothers and their adult daughters through storytelling. The Share Your Story workshop launched May 30, 2026, with potential for expanded use in community and therapeutic settings.
These projects highlight the ways UW School of Social Work students are actively advancing the Grand Challenges—translating big ideas into local action. Many of these efforts will continue beyond the academic year, extending their impact in communities across the region.