Eradicate social isolation

Social isolation is a silent killer—as dangerous to health as smoking. National and global health organizations have underscored the hidden, deadly, and pervasive hazards stemming from feeling alone and abandoned. Our challenge is to educate the public on this health hazard, encourage health and human service professionals to address social isolation, and promote effective ways to deepen social connections and community for people of all ages.

Brief Description

Network Leadership

Network Co-Leads:

Melissa Bessaha Stony Brook University

Robert Cosby Howard University

Sandra Edmunds Crewe Howard University

Michelle Munson NYU

Erika Sabbath Boston College

Others involved

Contact us to get involved!

Concept Paper

Social Isolation Presents a Grand Challenge for Social Work

Policy Recommendations

Brown, S., Casey, E. A., Crewe, S. E., Gironda, M., Johnson, C., Lubben, J., … Tracy, E. (2016, September). Policy recommendations for meeting the Grand Challenge to Eradicate Social Isolation (Grand Challenges for Social Work Initiative Policy Brief No. 5). Cleveland, OH: American Academy of Social Work & Social Welfare.

Publications

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March 30, 2021

Socially Connected Communities: Solutions for Social Isolation

Socially Connected Communities: Solutions for Social Isolation offers five recommendations for creating socially connected communities, starting with public spaces, transportation, and... more

January 22, 2021

Grand Challenges 5 Year Impact Report

The Grand Challenges for Social Work released its 5 year Impact Report in January 2021, highlighting accomplishments throughout the initiative... more

January 2, 2020

The Grand Challenges for Social Work: An Update

Social Work Today takes a look at the progress made toward addressing the 12 Grand Challenges for Social Work. Representatives from... more

Network Resources