WKU News

Western Kentucky University’s LifeSkills Center for Child Welfare Education and Research (LCCWEAR) is accepting applications for its Community Leadership Collaborative, an interdisciplinary mentoring and leadership program designed for undergraduate and graduate students committed to improving the well-being of children and families.

The program invites students across a wide range of disciplines, including social work, public health, nursing, psychology, education, speech-language pathology, and related fields to participate in a year-long experience that integrates mentorship, service learning, and professional development.

Participants in the Community Leadership Collaborative will:

• Explore the range of community resources that support child and family well-being
• Gain insight into diverse career paths
• Develop professional and leadership skills through service learning
• Collaborate across disciplines to better understand and address complex community needs

Program Structure (August–May):
The Collaborative is structured around four core components designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience:

• Orientation (August): Students will attend an in-person session to meet their cohort and program leadership.
• Mentoring & Professional Networking: Participants will engage in five virtual panel sessions featuring professionals in child- and family-serving careers. Topics include mental and physical health, child protection, adoption and foster care, and more.
• Service Learning: Students will help plan and implement two major community events—Unity in Action (November) and the Child Welfare Expo (April).
• Community Engagement: Monthly online check-ins, discussions, and reflections will foster ongoing learning and collaboration among participants.
• Program Evaluation: Students will complete a post-program survey to reflect on their experiences and support program improvement.

Students who fully engage in all program components will receive a $500 stipend upon successful completion.

“This program is an opportunity for students to expand their understanding of child and family services while building meaningful connections with professionals and peers,” said Dr. Whitney Cassity-Caywood, WKU Bachelor of Science Program Director. “By working across disciplines, participants are better prepared to lead and collaborate in real-world settings.”

Application Deadline: June 1, 2026

Students interested in applying or learning more are encouraged to visit the program’s application page.

About the LifeSkills Center for Child Welfare Education and Research
LCCWEAR is dedicated to advancing education, training, and research that strengthens child welfare systems and improves outcomes for children and families. Find more information here: https://www.wku.edu/childwelfare/