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.