Frequently Asked Questions
Prospective Members
How do I start A Chapter?
A person of Black African Ancestry can join the organization as an individual member or they can get the ball rolling to start a chapter in their area. The minimal number of people needed to become a provisional chapter is five (5). Ten (10) persons are needed to form a regular local community chapter. Students may also join the local community chapter if there is no student chapter available on their campus. Contact our Membership Coordinator to receive an application for individual membership or information on starting a chapter in your area!
Can I join as an individual member?
Yes, you can join NABSW as an individual member! You will enjoy all the benefits of the organization, with the exception of voting at the Steering Committee Meetings or in National elections.
How much are membership dues?
Dues for persons of Black African Ancestry are set and managed by the chapter.
What if there is no chapter in my state or close to me?
You can start one! All you need is 4-9 other like-minded individuals of Black African Ancestry. Then contact our Membership Coordinator to get the ball rolling!
What do I get for becoming a member?
There are many benefits to joining NABSW. Visit the Benefits of Membership page, under the Membership tab for a full listing of membership benefits.
What are the benefits for students?
Students enjoy the same benefits as regular members with some additional perks like a mentoring program, an office dedicated specifically to student needs, and scholarship opportunities!
How does NABSW operate/function?
The policies and procedures put in place by the founders of NABSW provide a structure where various roles and responsibilities are delegated and coordinated at various levels within the organization. The Executive Committee oversees and approves major decisions that affect the organization, which has to be approved by the Steering Committee and at times the organization’s body. NABSW is a self-determining, totally self-supporting, volunteer organization.
What is NABSW's Purpose?
The National Association of Black Social Workers Inc., seeks to (a) provide an opportunity for black social workers to reconnect to their African history, (b) help people understand the contribution of black social work pioneers to the development of solutions to past and current social welfare issues, and (c) provide opportunities for training, personal and professional development as black individuals and social workers, towards the improvement of the black community.
Current Members
I missed the Steering Committee Meeting. How can I access SCM reports?
Sorry you missed the reunion! You can use your member login and access current Steering Committee Reports, including Approved Minutes, Committee Reports and Action Items, by visiting the Steering Committee Reports page.
How can I access specific committee reports?
You can use your member login and access specific committee reports, by visiting the various committee pages, located in the Committees menu.
Our chapter needs suggestions on chapter-building and maintenance. Where can we get ideas?
All members have access to various chapter documents, including webinars, the chapter manual, and other important chapter documents, by visiting Chapter Resources. Chapters are also encouraged to connect with their respective Regional Liaisons, whose contact information is listed on the NABSW Regional Map page.
Our student chapter needs assistance. Whom should we contact?
All student chapters (affiliated with a college or university), should be in contact with the Student and Emerging Leaders Committee at SELC1@nabsw.org.
How can I register for Conference?
To register for conference, please visit the upcoming conference event page. (Conference is open to current and eligible prospective members only).
How can I network with other NABSW members?
Outside of our National Conference and Steering Committee Meetings, you can network with other NABSW members by signing into the our online community. You can click on various links throughout your profile to search members with similar credentials. Also, as a member, you can join groups, which discuss a wide variety of topics. Note: You MUST be signed in as a member to access the Groups page in the Membership Benefits tab under the Membership drop down menu.