Be Part of Lead Day 2026!
February 25, 2026 | 11:45 AM – 4:30 PM
Learn Today. Advocate Tomorrow.
LEAD Day 2026 gives social work students a hands-on opportunity to learn about current legislative priorities and social justice issues shaping the profession.
Participants will engage directly with policymakers and community leaders, gaining real-world insight into advocacy in action. This immersive experience is designed to strengthen your understanding of the legislative process while equipping you with the tools to advocate effectively for the communities you serve.
Throughout the day, attendees will explore:
• An overview of the legislative process
• Grassroots organizing and coalition building
• The road ahead in Virginia: Constitutional Amendments
• The de-professionalization of social work
This event offers a unique opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world policy engagement. Whether you are new to advocacy or already passionate about policy work, LEAD Day provides practical knowledge, meaningful conversations, and valuable connections that will help shape your professional journey.
Organized by NASW Virginia Chapter
In partnership with George Mason University and Norfolk State University.
Let NASW Virginia Help You Get Licensed in 2026!
We know how important it is that if you choose to take the social work licensure exam, you go into it feeling confident, calm, and prepared. We can help!
Sign up now for any of the 2026 exam prep workshops led by the nation's top exam prep instructor—Dr. Dawn Apgar—and you'll receive free six-month access to her robust clearinghouse of on-demand resources such as practice tests, digital flash cards, an online community of studying social workers, Q&As with Dawn, an exam study manual ($90 value!), test-taking tips, and much more! You'll even earn 6 CEs.
Become a member today!
The Virginia Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers is the state chapter of the largest professional association of social workers in the world. NASW Virginia serves social workers in all work settings, advocates on professional and social justice issues, offers continuing education and networking events, advises members on licensing and ethics, publishes news and more when it comes to the concerns of social workers and their clients.
What Does the NASW Virginia Chapter Do?
NASWVA provides continuing education programs and has been designated by the VA Board of Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors, as a pre-approved provider of professional continuing education programs for social workers and other mental health professionals. NASWVA is also highly engaged in legislative advocacy programs that promote sound public policies aimed at meeting human needs and improving the quality of life for social work clients.
