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Social Work Evaluation Program (SWEP)

The University of Alaska Anchorage Social Work Evaluation Program (SWEP) conducts research and evaluation in the area of child welfare, vulnerable adults, and health and mental health providers. We focus on Alaska, but our work takes us to many other places. Our partnerships have included projects with the State of Alaska Office of Children’s Services, Office of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Public Assistance, Division of Public Health and the Alaska Association of School Boards; as well as the Alaska Mental Health Trust, Casey Family Programs, The Tribal/State Collaboration Group; Catholic Social Services; Portland State University; and the International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX), Russian Office.

What we do
We evaluate services that support vulnerable children, youth, and adults and their families. We identify issues that need to be addressed as well as practices that are making a difference. We research problems that impact vulnerable Alaskans to help policymakers and practitioners make effective decisions. We develop curricula and train workers based on our clients’ needs. We write proposals to support state agencies and non-profits in securing funding for programs that include applied research.

Why we do it
We have a passion for social welfare. As social workers and social scientists, we have a fundamental responsibility to identify compelling social issues that impact vulnerable Alaskans, and to work toward humane solutions.

Who we are
The Social Work Evaluation Program is a component of the University of Alaska Anchorage School of Social Work, providing evaluation and research services to government and non-governmental organizations. The School of Social Work offers academic programs through the BSW and MSW programs and child protective services training through the Family and Youth Services Training Academy. SWEP is comprised of social work faculty, researchers, trainers, a grant-writer, and administrative support.

Our expertise
Our projects and publications have focused on the following topics:

  • Foster care
  • Family preservation
  • Substance abuse and child welfare
  • Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
  • Elder abuse and neglect
  • Indian Child Welfare
  • Native elders and boarding schools
  • Cultural competence in human services

Where we are
Our offices are located in Anchorage, but our employees also work from Seattle and Russia. Past projects have involved team members throughout Alaska. As a team, we are very comfortable working in a “virtual” office environment.

How to work with us
State agencies can use the Reimbursable Services Agreement (RSA) method to contract with SWEP. SWEP contracts with non-profit organizations, and responds to requests for proposals as appropriate.

For more information contact:
Susan Pope, Ph.D., Program Manager, SWEP
E-mail
afsmp@uaa.alaska.edu, 907-786-6724