Collective representation and the founders’ culture in non-profit organisations: the case of Israel’s national association for autism

Non-profit organisations (NPOs) have increased in numbers and importance, providing support, services advocacy. However, who non-profits actually represent is still an open question. To provide empirical basis for scrutinising how the representational roles of autism advocacy NPOs change (or not) as they develop, this article we focus on case Alut – Israeli national association autism. Drawing documentary analysis semi-structured interviews conducted 2015–17 with members, service recipients office holders, our findings demonstrate important role founders’ culture setting NPO’s agenda Alut’s case, provision prioritising ‘low-functioning’ autistic people. The further highlighted context organisational gaps between association’s actual its espoused messages regarding collective representation We conclude by discussing contributions to debates NPOs’ development maintenance stability through styles.