associations

Associations are organized groups of individuals who share a common interest, profession, or purpose. They typically operate as nonprofit entities and coordinate activity around education, advocacy, service, and professional standards.

Common purposes include representing members to policymakers, providing training and certification, facilitating networking, publishing information, and coordinating collective action on issues of mutual concern. Membership is usually open to individuals who meet established criteria and who pay dues, and governance is typically carried out by a board of directors or officers elected by members.

Structure and activities. Associations are usually structured with bylaws, a charter or articles of incorporation, and a formal governance framework. They organize meetings, conferences, and committees; produce journals, newsletters, or online content; and may run accreditation or certification programs, grant awards, and ethical or professional standards development. Many associations also engage in research, public outreach, and volunteer service on behalf of their communities or sectors.

Scope and examples. Professional and trade associations represent practitioners and businesses (for example, a bar association or an industry guild); scientific, humanities, and cultural associations advance scholarly work and cultural life; alumni, student, and neighborhood associations focus on community and networking.

Legal and financial aspects. Most associations are classified as nonprofit organizations and may qualify for tax-exempt status. They rely on member dues, sponsorships, grants, and service fees, and are subject to governance, financial reporting, and accountability requirements.

Other uses. In psychology and statistics, “association” can refer to a relationship or linkage between ideas, variables, or outcomes, as well as to the process of associative learning in which events become connected.