Associació

An association (associació) is a voluntary, nonprofit organization formed by individuals or entities to pursue shared aims not primarily for profit. It is a common form in Catalan-speaking communities but is used widely in civil society to organize cultural, social, professional, or charitable activities.

Formation and legal recognition: It is typically created by a founding act and a set of statutes that define purposes, membership, governance, and dissolution. Legal personality is often obtained by registration in a public or regional registry, enabling the association to hold assets, enter contracts, and sue or be sued.

Governance: The governance structure usually centers on a general assembly, which is the supreme decision-making body, and a board or managing committee elected by the members. The statutes set voting rules, frequency of meetings, and duties of officers such as president, treasurer, and secretary. Many associations have commissions or working groups.

Activities and types: Associations can be cultural, educational, sports, ecological, advocacy, professional, or charitable. They mobilize volunteers and members to organize events, provide services, or advocate for policy changes. They may collaborate with authorities, and may be subject to reporting obligations or compliance with non-profit regulations.

Funding and accountability: Common sources include member dues, donations, government or foundation grants, sponsorships, and income from events. Larger associations often publish annual reports and undergo audits to ensure transparency and accountability.

Relation to other forms: An associació differs from foundations, corporations, or cooperatives in that it is member-driven and primarily nonprofit. As part of civil society, it aims to empower participation, community development, and voluntary action.