Chapter Policies

COVID-19 Policies

COVID-19 In-Person Event Policy 

NASW-MN recognizes the threat of COVID-19 and its variants and wants to do its part in ensuring the safety of staff, members, and event participants. While much of our activities can still be held virtually, we understand the value of being able to be together in person. When considering if an event can be in-person we will consult the CDC data tracker to see the risk for the counties from which we expect people to be attending. If the risk is "High", "Substantial", or "Moderate", we will not host in-person events and will remain virtual with activities. When the risk level reaches "Low", in-person or hybrid events can be held. 

If we do deem it safe to have an in-person event, we will still utilize mitigation efforts to reduce the risk of COVID transmissions at our events; this will include but not limited to the following: 

Before our in-person event 

• Encourage people to get vaccinated and share a link to where they can find vaccination appointments near them. Click here to find available locations near you. 
• Remind people to stay home if they have any COVID-related symptoms and include a list of symptoms, including any different symptoms for new variants 
• Recommend taking a COVID test before the event, checking CDC and MDH guidance as to how many days before an event people should be getting tested 
• Have a mask policy for events, make venue decisions that will allow for social distancing, and cap attendance, if needed. 

COVID-19 Event Refund Policy 

NASW-MN is committed to the safety of our staff, members, and event participants. We ask that people experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms before an in-person event please stay home to aid in reducing transmission. If the event is hybrid, registrants will be given the link to participate in the event remotely, and/or provided with a recording of the event. If neither of these options are possible, the registrant will be issued a refund.

Payments, Cancellations and Refunds

Payment for Event Registrations

All payments for event registrations must be received by NASW-MN prior to the event start time. Any outstanding balance must be paid before a registrant can be permitted to attend the event in question. Any registrant that fails to pay any outstanding balance prior to event start will not be permitted to attend the event. 

Payment may be made in advance using cash, check or credit card prior to the event. Checks can be made payable to NASW-MN and mailed to our chapter office address. For timely processing of your payment and to expedite your receipt of materials/access and confirmation, we recommend paying with a credit card during registration. We do not accept American Express.

Registration Cancellations and Refunds

All event payment, cancellation and refund requests must be made directly to NASW-MN via phone (651-293-1935) or e-mail (admin.naswmn@socialworkers.org).

All cancellations must be made at least three (3) full working days prior to the event date to receive a full refund of paid registration and meals.

No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than three (3) working days prior to the event.

No refunds will be issued for registrants who do not attend the event, without having cancelled at least three
(3) working days in advance.

Contact NASW-MN in cases of extenuating circumstances. See COVID-19 Policies above.

Cancellation and refund policies may differ for the License Exam Review Prep Course, Annual Conference, Social Work Summit, Supervisor Certification Series, and Camp NASW-MN. Unless otherwise specified, cancellations for these events must be made at least two (2) full weeks prior to the event date for a full refund. See Cancellation and Refund Policy on specific event registration page for details.

Merchandise Refunds

No refunds will be issued for merchandise. If an item is defective, contact NASW-MN within 5 days of in-person purchase or 5 days of receipt via mail for an exchange. No exchanges will be made for items damaged by the purchaser. Purchaser is responsible for inspecting items upon purchase/receipt, and delivering item for exchange.

For questions about registrations and refunds, contact admin.naswmn@socialworkers.org.

Sponsor/Exhibitor/Advertiser Policy

Sponsors, exhibitors, and advertisers are representatives of NASW-MN.  By agreeing to sponsor, exhibit or advertise at an NASW-MN event or in an NASW-MN publication, the organization and its representatives commit to alignment with the NASW Code of Ethics.

NASW-MN reserves the right to refuse any sponsor, exhibitor, or advertisement for any reason. NASW-MN aims to showcase resources and services that will be valuable to members; however, showcasing services does NOT imply NASW-MN endorsement. NASW-MN is not liable for any actions that occur as a result of utilizing external services.

To advertise in our member e-newsletter or learn about sponsor/exhibitor opportunities, e-mail admin.naswmn@socialworkers.org.

Grievance Procedure

NASW-MN recognizes its responsibility to listen to member and stakeholder suggestions, complaints or grievances, and attempt to resolve any such concerns.  A grievance/complaint is defined as an expression of verbal or written dissatisfaction that can include, but is not limited to, services, manner of treatment, outcomes, or experiences.

Individuals filing grievances are treated with empathy, dignity, and respect.  In no case will a grievance result in any reprisal. Members will not be denied service because of a grievance.

Grievances will be given prompt and careful attention and, when indicated, grievances will result in corrective action.

The following is the procedure by which the NASW-MN Chapter will attempt to discuss and resolve grievances:

1. Individuals are to discuss grievances with an NASW-MN staff member.  If a grievance cannot be resolved by the employee, the employee shall inform the Executive Director.
2. If the grievance includes the Executive Director, the grievance will also be brought to the NASW-MN Board President.
3. If the complainant(s) wishes to pursue filing a formal grievance, they must inform the Executive Director or Board President (if required) of that intent in writing along with a description of the complaint.
4. Within 10 working days, the complainant, staff member, Executive Director, and Board President (if required) will discuss the grievance and attempt resolution.
5. If a complainant remains unsatisfied with the resolution, they may appeal the matter to the NASW-MN Board Executive Committee.  The Executive Director or Board President (if required) compiles a complete report of the situation, including action taken, reasoning, and other documentation gathered.  The Executive Committee will review an appeal within 20 working days of its receipt. The complainant will be notified of the Executive Committee’s decision in writing. The decision will be final.

All written formal grievances, NASW-MN’s response to them, and a summary of the action taken on each complaint, will be kept and results reported to the NASW-MN Board of Directors.

To file a grievance, contact NASW at 651-293-1935 or admin.naswmn@socialworkers.org.

Diversity Plan

Under construction. Will be posted soon!