Call for Proposals
51st National Rural Social Work Conference
Hopkinsville, Kentucky
July 15–18, 2026
Conference Theme:
Rural is Real: Thriving in a Time of Rapid Change Through Solution-Based Problem Solving and Collaboration in Rural Areas
Conference Purpose and Focus
The Annual Rural Social Work Conference is one of the few national gatherings dedicated specifically to rural social work practice, education, and research. It brings together social service professionals, educators, practitioners, and community leaders to share solution-focused approaches that address the unique challenges faced by rural individuals, families, and communities.
The National Rural Social Work Caucus encourages proposals that draw on core social work skills and respond to the current political and economic climate affecting rural families and clients. We welcome pragmatic, practice-based, and collaborative presentations from community agency staff, practitioners, academics, and especially rural community practitioners.
The emphasis for 2026 is on practical, actionable strategies rather than polarizing ideology. Proposals addressing rural ethics are especially encouraged.
Proposal Topics of Particular Interest for 2026
All proposals must focus on rural populations.
Families, Communities, and Collaborative Practice
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Family and child welfare issues, including service provider responses
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Military, military family, and veteran issues
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Veteran-specific community collaborations
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Cross-sector collaborations (private, public, and faith-based)
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Contemporary social work practice in diverse rural communities
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Framing issues in ways that support problem solving without polarization
Restorative Justice and Re-entry Services
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Re-entry challenges for justice-involved individuals
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Transitional and wrap-around services
Substance Use and Behavioral Health
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Substance use, recovery programs, and behavioral health concerns
Health Care and Policy Impacts
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Effects of policy changes on:
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Physical and mental health outcomes
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Reproductive health
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Hospital and clinic access
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Community-level mental health services
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Technology and Service Delivery
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AI and its implications for rural communities
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Impacts of telehealth on service delivery
Food Security and Community Resourcing
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Policy impacts on food insecurity and hunger across the lifespan
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Access to food and nutrition resources and strategies for addressing barriers
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Community-based approaches to addressing hunger
Education
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K-12 issues, including increased state burdens and local service cuts
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Higher education access, funding, and related challenges
Submit a Proposal
We invite proposals that reflect the realities of rural life and offer collaborative, solution-oriented approaches that strengthen rural communities.
Join us in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, July 15–18, 2026, and be part of a national conversation focused on meeting the challenges and opportunities facing rural communities today.