Overview
The Ballmer Group Stipend Program at the UCLA Luskin Department of Social Welfare supports the development of a diverse and well-prepared behavioral health workforce serving children, youth, and families across Los Angeles County.
The program provides financial support and specialized training to prepare social work students to provide mental health, prevention, and intervention services, with a particular focus on low-income, underserved, and marginalized communities.
Program Overview
The Ballmer Group Stipend Program was established to increase and diversify the pipeline of licensed clinical professionals providing youth mental health services through nonprofit organizations and government agencies across Los Angeles County.
At UCLA Luskin, Ballmer Scholars receive stipend support throughout their two-year educational program and participate in specialized training designed to strengthen their preparation for careers focused on youth well-being and mental health.
Through the program, students have opportunities to gain hands-on experience in community-based settings while developing the knowledge and skills needed to address the complex behavioral health needs of children, youth, and families.
Program Goals
The Ballmer Group Stipend Program aims to:
- Increase and diversify the pipeline of social work professionals providing youth mental health services and prevention programming across Los Angeles County.
- Expand the representation of the youth behavioral health workforce in low-income and underserved communities.
- Prepare students for employment through training that aligns with the needs of community agencies and the populations they serve.
- Reduce barriers to pursuing and sustaining careers focused on youth well-being and mental health.
Financial Support
Ballmer Scholars may receive up to $36,000 in stipend support per year for up to two years of their educational program.
Employment Commitment & Repayment Policy
Employment Commitment
In exchange for stipend support, participants commit to professional service.
Upon graduation and successful completion of program requirements, participants must complete two years of full-time employment (one year of employment for every year of funding) with a Qualifying Agency within Los Angeles County.
This commitment strengthens workforce continuity and ensures experienced behavioral health professionals serve children, youth, and families in Los Angeles County.
Repayment Policy
The stipend is a service-based award. Participants who do not complete program requirements or fulfill the two-year employment commitment will be required to repay stipend funds received. Repayment may be:
- Full or prorated based on the length of service completed
- Managed according to the terms outlined in the signed stipend agreement
The signed stipend agreement governs all service and repayment terms. Students are encouraged to review all program documents carefully before accepting funds.
Learn More
Learn more about the Ballmer Group’s $13.5 million investment in UCLA Luskin and its commitment to transforming youth mental health training. Read the full story.
Contact Us
Erin Nakamura, L.C.S.W.
Project Coordinator
enakamura@luskin.ucla.edu
Poco D. Kernsmith, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
poco@luskin.ucla.edu
Susan Lares-Nakaoka, Ph.D., M.S.W., M.A.
Director of Practicum Education
susan@luskin.ucla.edu
Alex Avendaño, M.A.
Student Affairs Officer
alexavendano@luskin.ucla.edu