An action-oriented text, the Fifth Edition of Affecting Change continues to provide new ideas and strategies to help students become better advocates for their future clients. Updated to reflect advances in technology and changes in social welfare policy, this revision shows students how to develop political action skills. This practical, step-by-step guide focuses on advocacy as the central mission of social work practice. New material and personal scenarios involving social workers who have made a difference-senators, representatives, and officials in the political arena-serve to inspire students. Revised and expanded chapters show how social work skills can be most effective, whether by impacting the political arena as a social worker or running for office.