Community Engagement and Advocacy

Through the SAGE Collaboratory, faculty and students co-lead hands-on service with older adults, fostering empathy, connection, and meaningful community impact.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s - Waco, Texas

Every year, the Diane R. Garland School of Social Work team, “Social Walkers for Healthy Brains,” participates in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s to raise awareness, support research, and honor those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Our team joins countless others in the community to walk, fundraise, and advocate for a future free from Alzheimer’s. Through this annual effort, we not only contribute to critical research but also embody our commitment to compassion, community, and social well-being—core values that guide our work in social work education and practice. Dr. Dennis Myers and an MSW student usually co-lead this opportunity every year.

Friends for Life: Gifts for Grannies

One of our holiday traditions is to spread holiday cheer through the Friends for Life: Gifts for Grannies giving opportunity! Visit the Giving Tree located in the Diane R. Garland School of Social Work “Living Room” to select a gift tag (i.e., ornament) and help bring joy to grandmothers in need. Your generosity ensures that these special women feel remembered, loved, and celebrated at this time of year.

Blooming Together: Gardening for Local Nursing Homes

Our students, staff, and faculty seek to bring beauty and life to local nursing homes through a gardening initiative with our partners at SCRAP and Da Shack Farmer’s Market. By planting flowers and gardens, we aim to brighten residents’ days, foster community connections, and promote well-being. Join us as we sow seeds of joy and create vibrant spaces where older adults can thrive. This initiative has been made possible from by Dr. Stephanie Boddie.