Community Resources and Centers
Centers and Initiatives at the Howard University School of Social Work
The Howard University School of Social Work is home to several key centers and initiatives dedicated to advancing research, training, and community engagement across critical areas of social work. These centers serve as platforms for faculty, students, and community partners to address pressing social issues, promote professional development, and strengthen community-based solutions.
Professional Development and Continuing Education
The Howard University School of Social Work offers professional development and continuing education programs for social workers and human service professionals. These programs include continuing education workshops on key topics, certificate programs, and training collaborations with partner organizations. Participants can earn continuing education credits towards licensure renewal, learn from experienced trainers in the field, and engage with a network of professionals committed to advancing their practice.
View Course ListingsMental Health Awareness and Training Initiative (MHAT)
The Mental Health Awareness and Training (MHAT) program at the Howard University School of Social Work provides Mental Health First Aid training, thematic webinars, and digital referral tools to support suicide prevention and mental health awareness. Funded by SAMHSA, the program has trained over 3,000+ participants across campus departments and community organizations, offering evidence-based strategies and resources tailored to the needs of the Black community.
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E. Franklin Frazier Center for Social Work Research
The E. Franklin Frazier Center for Social Work Research at Howard University School of Social Work serves as a hub for advancing research that addresses pressing social issues affecting individuals, families, and communities. Established in 1995, the Center supports faculty, students, visiting scholars, and community partners in conducting research focused on urban, suburban, and rural populations in the U.S., as well as international communities across the African diaspora. Named after Dr. E. Franklin Frazier, a pioneering sociologist and founder of Howard’s School of Social Work, the Center continues his legacy by fostering inquiry that informs practice, policy, and scholarship in social work.
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Multidisciplinary Gerontology Center
The Howard University Multidisciplinary Gerontology Center (HU-MGC), housed in the School of Social Work, provides community-focused research, outreach, and programming to support older adults and promote intergenerational engagement. Established in the early 1990s, HU-MGC collaborates with local organizations, government agencies, and educational institutions to address issues such as social isolation, mental health, substance use, financial wellness, and community violence.
The Center leads initiatives such as support groups for grandparents raising grandchildren, professional development seminars, and youth-led restorative drum circles. It also supports research and public education through projects like the Grand Stories: Profiles in Aging podcast. With over 30 years of service, HU-MGC continues to bridge generations and strengthen communities across the Greater Washington, D.C. region.
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