An overview of the social work profession and introduction to the terms, concepts, people, and critical events that have shaped the profession. Topics include the role of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) in maintaining and strengthening social work education and standards; the importance of human service agencies in fostering or diminishing the quality of services; and developing an understanding of poverty and the impact of institutional racism, sexism, and ageism.