Case Study Of Autism Speaks

Organizations exist in order to fulfill a purpose, create consumer products, or in this case, to fulfill a social responsibility. This paper will examine Autism Speaks, a non-profit organization that funds research surrounding ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorders) and helps to provide resources, education and awareness surrounding these disorders. Throughout this examination, the history of the organization will be examined in regards to how this non-profit organization came to fruition. From there, the sociological and economical context in which it is situated, as well as the governance and administration in which look after the organization, will be analyzed and discussed in order to provide a sociological perspective on the organization. Finally, …show more content…
As explained in The Sociology of Organizations, an organic system is where, “Job definitions and the boundaries between functions were more flexible, rules were less formalized, employees exercised more discretion, and hierarchy as less pronounced.” (Handel, 40) This proves true within this organization because Autism Speaks runs off of a lot of volunteer run events. As well, volunteers are the backbone of this organization, which can be seen through their dedication to advocacy for children and adults with ASD. (Autism Speaks, 2016) Having an organization with a lot of volunteer positions to fill, there is most definitely a less pronounced hierarchy, as usually many of the volunteers hold the same amount of power and …show more content…
By analyzing their social and organizational structures, their governance and administrative roles and their history, it is clear that Autism Speaks is working hard to ensure that people diagnosed with autism and surrounding disorders are provided the tools and services necessary to live their lives to the fullest. Hopefully one day, due to their research, these wonderful adults and children will be provided with a