The Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers was established in October 1962 and was incorporated under the Societies Act on December 1, 1962. The purpose in forming the association was to provide the two existing branches in the province with a means for working together to accomplish the aims and objectives of the profession of social work in the province as a whole. Also, it was seen as an effective means of improving communication between these two small organizations and CASW. Thus, SASW became an organizational member of CASW, adopted its Code of Ethics, and provided a representative to the National Board of CASW.

Statistics for 1963 indicated an active membership of 83 distributed among four branches (Saskatoon, Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, and Regina). Today, SASW has 1,000+ members and 10 branch/interest groups established.

The first legislation regulating social work in Saskatchewan was proclaimed in 1967 and provided for the voluntary registration and regulation of members. On April 1, 1995, The Social Workers Act was proclaimed which gave SASW ownership of the title "Social Worker". An individual cannot use this title, unless they are registered with the Association.

As an association, SASW is the voice of social workers in Saskatchewan. It is a professional association with members in many fields of practice across the province.

The objectives of the association are:

1. to establish, maintain, and develop standards of knowledge, skill and competence among its members for the purpose of serving and protecting the public interest.
2. to establish, maintain, and develop standards of professional conduct among its members.
3. to promote, develop and sponsor activities appropriate to the strengthening and unification of the social work profession.
4. to provide a means by which the Association through its members may take action on issues of social policy.
5. to edit and publish books, papers, journals and other forms of literature respecting social work in order to disseminate information to members of the association as well as to members of the public at large.
6. to encourage specialized studies in social work among its members and to provide assistance and facilities for special studies and research.