Experiential learning is the cornerstone of social work education and has been shown to be highly beneficial to students, especially with increased self-confidence in skills, interest in similar work post-graduation, cultural humility, application of theory to practice, problem solving skills, and critical thinking. Additionally, experiential learning opportunities support the nine competencies of social work education and provides students with an opportunity to try out their budding skills with the guidance and supervision of seasoned social workers. This paper discusses an innovative course project that allowed a group of social work students to engage in macro-level social work practice and grant writing with a rural Missouri county that struggles with high poverty rates, health disparities, and the digital divide. Additional topics discussed are the benefits to the community, students, and agency partners; increased interest in macro-level social work; dedication to rural practice; and the overall evaluation of the project
