NASW History


The National Association of Social Workers has a rich history.  Founded in 1955, NASW is one of the largest membership organizations of professional social workers in the world, with more than 120,000 members.  NASW works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards, and to advance sound social policies.  NASW has  Chapters in every state in the United States, plus Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, and an International Chapter.  Washington D.C. and New York City also host NASW chapters.

NASW was founded in 1955 through a merger of seven social work organizations:

  • American Association of Social Workers;
  • American Association of Medical Social Workers;
  • American Association of Psychiatric Social Workers;
  • National Association of School Social Workers;
  • American Association of Group Workers;
  • Association for the Study of Community Organization; and,
  • Social Work Research Group.

Facts And Information About NASW And Social Work

The NASW website has a wealth of information about the history of NASW and social work as well as facts about the association and social work.  For more information please visit these sections of the NASW website:

2015 NASW 60th Anniversary Celebration

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The National Association of Social Workers celebrated its 60th Anniversary at a special event at the Hyatt Regency on Capital Hill.

The celebration was held on October 30, 2015. Photography and video production by Kim M. Simpson.

1960 News Clip Photo Of Social Workers Celebrating 125 Years Of Social Work - From NASW Archives

Historic photograph in news clip of social workers celebrating 125 years of social work in 1960. The goal of The NASW Legacy Project is to identify and preserve the photographs, books, papers, and other documents that will tell the NASW story for decades to come.


NASW Social Work Pioneer Whitney Moore Young, Jr. At Rally-Event - From NASW Archives

Historic photograph of NASW Social Work Pioneer Whitney Moore Young, Jr.  This image is among the photographs, books, papers, and other documents that have been archived at the NASW National Office in Washington, D.C.


NASW Social Work Pioneer And Former NASW President Kurt Reichert Marches In New York - From NASW Archives

Civil Rights Documentary

How NASW Mobilized for Civil Rights is narrated by Kurt Reichert, NASW President from 1963 to 1965.  This documentary describes NASW’s role in the Civil Rights Movement.  Receive a complimentary DVD copy with your gift of $20 or more to The NASW Legcy Project by contacting the NASW Foundation at 202-336-8298..