National Association of Social Workers

The National Association of Social Workers, or NASW is the largest organization of professional social workers in the United States. It was formed in 1955 as the result of a merger of seven social work groups:


 * 1) American Association of Social Workers
 * 2) American Association of Medical Social Workers
 * 3) American Association of Psychiatric Social Workers
 * 4) National Association of School Social Workers
 * 5) American Association of Group Workers
 * 6) Association for the Study of Community Organization
 * 7) Social Work Research Group

According to the NASW, its primary functions include "promoting the professional development of its members, establishing and maintaining professional standards of practice, advancing sound social policies, and providing services that protect its members and enhance their professional status." The NASW also developed the NASW Code of Ethics, among other standards for practice.

There are chapters for all 50 states, as well as Puerto Rico, New York City, Washington, D.C., the Virgin Islands, and Guam, as well as an international chapter.