IU, Ombudsman Program Launch Social Work Partnership

New practicum partnership provides hands-on experience in resident advocacy and long-term care

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program of Northeast Indiana has established a new partnership with the Indiana University School of Social Work, creating opportunities for social work students to gain hands-on experience advocating for residents of long-term care facilities.

The program has signed an affiliation agreement with the IU School of Social Work to serve as a practicum placement site and welcomed its first student through the partnership, Miah Miller, on Aug. 24th.

“This partnership is an exciting step forward for our program because it allows us to invest in the next generation of social work professionals while introducing them to the critical role advocacy plays in long-term care,” said Zanzy Lewis, executive director of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program of Northeast Indiana. “Students like Miah bring new perspectives and energy to this work, and in return, we have the opportunity to give them meaningful, hands-on experience advocating alongside residents and ensuring their voices, choices and rights are heard and respected.”

Miller is pursuing a Master of Social Work degree at Indiana University. During her practicum, she will gain experience in resident advocacy, residents’ rights, long-term care, interdisciplinary collaboration and the role of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program in supporting individuals living in long-term care facilities.

For Miller, the placement is an opportunity to build upon her passion for helping others while developing her skills as a social worker.

“I am a Master of Social Work student at Indiana University with a strong passion for advocating for others and helping individuals navigate challenges with compassion, empathy and understanding,” Miller said. “Through my experiences working with clients from diverse backgrounds and demographics, I have developed a commitment to meeting people where they are and supporting their unique needs and goals.”

Miller said she hopes to continue growing as a social work professional while making a meaningful and positive impact in the lives of others.

The new partnership represents another step in the continued growth of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program of Northeast Indiana and expands its commitment to education, community collaboration and strengthening the network of professionals who serve older adults and individuals receiving long-term care.

By serving as a practicum placement site, the program can provide future social workers with firsthand exposure to the realities of long-term care and a deeper understanding of the importance of resident-directed advocacy. Students will have opportunities to learn how ombudsmen work with residents, families, facility staff and other professionals while keeping the rights and wishes of residents at the center of their work.

Outside of her studies and social work, Miller enjoys caring for her plants and spending time with her animals.