New program aims to address shortage of mental health providers in Winnebago Co.

New program aims to address shortage of mental health providers in Winnebago Co.

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Rockford area colleges joined forces to create a new program for college graduates looking to become social workers in the area. The program is being funded by a $2 million grant. The grant is being fulfilled through a half-cent sales tax. The University of Illinois College of Medicine, Rock Valley College, Rockford University, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign School of Social Work, Rockford Public Schools 205 and …

New program sets out to develop more social workers in Winnebago County

Amanda Smith, chief academic officer at Rock Valley College, speaks Thursday, May 22, 2025, at a news conference about a new program that will help develop more social workers in Winnebago County. Looking on are Elizabeth Davies, provost at Rockford University, and Jennifer Lawrence, chief of student services at Rockford Public Schools. (Photo by Kevin Haas/Rock River Current) By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our new mobile app ROCKFORD — A …