Discuss the seven functions of voluntary associations.

Voluntary associations serve the following seven functions:
(1) they advance particular interests for professional, leisure, and utilitarian reasons;
(2) they offer people an identity, such as membership as a scout, a Kiwanian, or member of the PTA, and  provide in-group loyalties;
(3) they help govern nations and maintain social order by getting people out to vote, assisting in national disasters, and serving as policemen, firemen, and EMTs;
(4) they mediate between the government and the individual. Social movements help the individual pressure the government for change;
(5) they provide training and skills that assist the individual in career advancement;
(6) they bring people into the political mainstream, ranging from members of the NAACP to the NRA to advance their positions;
(7) they can pave the way for social change (examples: Greenpeace is working for a safer and cleaner environment, while gay and lesbian organizations are advancing their perceived right to same-sex marriage).