Founded in 1955, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world. NASW works to enhance the professional growth and development of our members, to create and maintain professional standards for social workers, and to advance sound social policies. Our Purpose is to promote the quality and effectiveness of social work practice in the United States, to improve conditions of life in our democratic society using social work knowledge and skills, and to help maintain and promote high standards for social work practice and preparation for practice.