National Association of Social Workers

National Association of Social Workers logo

National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is a professional organization of social workers in the United States. Founded in 1955, the NASW is the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world, with nearly 120,000 members. The association works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards, and to advance sound social policies.

History

The NASW was formed through the merger of seven organizations dedicated to the profession of social work. Its creation was motivated by the desire to have a unified organization that could advocate effectively for the interests of social workers and the clients they serve. Since its inception, the NASW has played a crucial role in advocating for key social issues, including civil rights, healthcare reform, and the protection of vulnerable populations.

Mission and Goals

The mission of the NASW is to promote, develop, and protect the practice of social work and social workers. Additionally, the organization aims to enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and communities through its advocacy for social justice and social change. The NASW has several goals, including:

• Establishing and maintaining high standards of professional practice
• Advancing the professional development of social workers
• Advocating for social policies that ensure equality and justice

Membership

Membership in the NASW is open to individuals who have obtained a degree in social work from an accredited institution, as well as students currently enrolled in social work programs. The organization offers various benefits to its members, including access to professional development resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts on behalf of the profession.

Code of Ethics

One of the key contributions of the NASW to the field of social work is the development of the NASW Code of Ethics. This document outlines the ethical principles and standards that guide social workers in their professional conduct. The Code of Ethics covers areas such as confidentiality, informed consent, competence, and integrity, and serves as a foundational document for ethical decision-making in social work practice.

Advocacy and Public Policy

The NASW is actively involved in advocacy and public policy efforts at both the national and state levels. The organization works to influence legislation and policy that impact social workers and the clients they serve. This includes advocating for social justice issues, such as poverty reduction, healthcare access, and protection of human rights.

Continuing Education and Professional Development

The NASW provides a wide range of continuing education and professional development opportunities for social workers. These include conferences, workshops, webinars, and online courses that cover various aspects of social work practice and ethics. The organization also offers credentials and certifications to social workers who meet certain professional standards and competencies.

Conclusion

The National Association of Social Workers plays a vital role in supporting the social work profession and advocating for social justice and policy changes. Through its efforts, the NASW enhances the professional growth of social workers and promotes the well-being of communities across the United States.