An association is a group of people who band together for a common purpose, such as a Homeowners Association of your local neighborhood or subdivision. You may see problems in the community that need to be corrected or represented such as recruiting volunteers to fight illiteracy or a parent organization. Maybe your company needs a way to certify it's experienced professionals. Starting an association begins as an urgency or common need that prompts people to work together to pursue same goals and interests.
Associations are groups of people who find strength in numbers in sharing common interests of industries, professions, charities, hobbies, or philanthropic action. They exist for the mutual protection and advancement of their members. The names may be numerous such as associations, federations, alliances, institutes, guilds, societies, foundations, clubs, congresses, coalitions, centers, networks, unions, chambers, bureaus, fraternities, or sororities.
Starting an association requires some hard work and careful planning.
- First identify a core group of leaders to serve as the organizing committee
- Articulate and write down your purpose
- Study the existing market
- Form a structure
- Develop a Mission Statement
- Choose an Organizational Model
- Decide your Tax Status
- Decide how you will get Financial Support
- Develop a Program of Activities
- Come up with Management Options
- You will need to Draft Bylaws
- Choose a Headquarters Site
You may need to apply for a federal I.D. number, obtain mailing permits and business reply accounts, establish bank accounts, and so on. Most of these can be handled by your new chief executive. There is one more administrative task you should handle as an organizing committee, and that is directors and officers liability insurance. It is important to discuss these issues with an attorney, particularly regarding the laws of the state where you would incorporate or begin your association.
NONPROFIT COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATIONS
Take a look at Florida Law (Title XXXVI: Chapter 619 Business Organizations)
