Acknowledgements

This workbook grew out of many conversations with students and professors about both the beauty and the very real challenges of creating a meaningful, impactful independent project within a social service organization. Since it’s inception, Drs. Jess Retrum & Shawna Farrell have played (and continue to play) instrumental roles in the development of the graduate course for which this guidebook serves. Professor Laura Montero’s partnership as an instructor and co-lead for the course, and her affirmation and gentle guidance have enriched this resource. Professor Stacie Hanson and Dr. Crystal Luce also gave of their time to provide critical feedback, helping us clarify and strengthen key aspects of this work. We are grateful to each of you, and to our instruction team as a whole, for your collaboration in this endeavor. We learn so much from your insights.

Students, both current and former, are at the heart of this guidebook. You have taught us what it means to truly support project-based learning within graduate social work education. We are particularly in debt to Rocio Duran, who provided thoughtful feedback, endless edits and incredible design skills throughout the development of this project. And, to Payge Wyman, Jaimie Kerka, and Ambey Clark, thank you for offering a student perspective on the content, structure, visual engagement, activities and other resources provided within. We were in such good hands with you as our reviewers. And Kelly Nelson, your willingness to step in and help with last minute edits was so incredible. Thank you, really.

Finally, Emily Ragan, tireless OER advocate, thanks for saying yes to our request for financial support to make this project real. You offered us resources, encouragement and some much-needed know-how. And, one more note of gratitude to the Colorado Department of Higher Education and OER Council Professional Development Committee for approving our application to publish this guidebook through the Colorado Pressbooks Network!