Disabilities Committee

Authorization and Accountability

The committee is accountable to the NASW Board of Directors and shall recommend to the Board such action(s) deemed necessary to further the pursuit of the committee’s mission to advance excellence in social work by providing leadership oversight and guidance to NASW’s national program initiatives related to disability justice and equity.

Purpose

The NASW Disabilities Committee reviews and monitors programs that:

• Advocate for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities.
• Support legislative and policy changes to improve accessibility to services.
• Expand professional education on disability-centered practice.

Duties

• Address the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities.
• Review and monitor policies and programs that promote the well-being of individuals with disabilities.
• Provide resources, training, and continuing education opportunities for social workers who are interested in collaborating with individuals with disabilities.
• Provide strategic advice and input on the needs of individuals with disabilities and their families.

Committee Composition

1. There shall be eleven (11) volunteer members of the committee consisting of at least three members with a disability. One (1) NASW staff member will function as liaison between the committee and the Association departments/staff.
2. Consistent with NASW’s bylaws, committee members, including the chair, shall be appointed by the NASW President. The committee shall make recommendations to the President, who will make final appointments. If a committee member resigns before the expiration of their term, the NASW President shall appoint a member to fill the vacancy.
3. Committee members including the chair, shall serve three-year staggered terms.

Committee Chair Responsibilities

Facilitate committee meetings. Identify a member of the committee to chair meetings in their absence. The committee shall meet virtually at least three (3) times per year. Report committee program initiatives and outcomes to the NASW Board of Directors. Notify the President of an existing vacancy or impending committee vacancy as soon as is practicable.