Students in the COSA (Community, Organization, and Social Action) Specialization in the MSW Program develop and implement projects as part of their central grades in two of our core courses. Since the Fall of 2017, we have engaged community organizations and students in completing over 85 community projects.
Proposals will be reviewed by the professors to determine if they meet the requirements outlined in the RFP. Organizations submitting proposals that meet the requirements will be asked to present your project to students at the Community Organizing and Planning Class on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. The class is from 6:00 to 8:50 PM.
Successful projects are feasible so that they can be completed in one semester; they develop and build on skills in community organizing, community development and/or community planning; outline clear and specific roles and tasks for the students and the organization; and maintain ongoing communication (students meet at least biweekly with an designated community organization liaison). Moreover, students do not serve as interns but collaborative partners who will work with organizations on the proposed project.
Click this link for the RFP for the SPRING 2026 Community Projects RFP.
Proposals are due by FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2026.
Please share this opportunity with community organizations that you think would be interested. Don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Mary Ohmer, COSA Chair, if you have any questions at mlo51@pitt.edu