What is Al-Anon?

The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives and friends of alcoholics who share their experience, strength, and hope, in order to solve their common problems. We believe alcoholism is a family illness, and that changed attitudes can aid recovery.

Al-Anon is not allied with any sect, denomination, political entity, organization, or institution; does not engage in any controversy, neither endorses nor opposes any cause. There are no dues for membership. Al-Anon is self-supporting through its own voluntary contributions.

Al-Anon has but one purpose: to help families of alcoholics. We do this by practicing the Twelve Steps, by welcoming and giving comfort to families of alcoholics, and by giving understanding and encouragement to the alcoholic.

Similarly, Alateen is our recovery program for young people.  Alateen groups are sponsored by Al-Anon members.

The only requirement for membership is that there be a problem of alcoholism in a relative or friend.

AL-ANON IS

a worldwide organization that offers a program of recovery for the families and friends of alcoholics whether or not the alcoholic seeks help or even recognizes the existence of a drinking problem.  Members give and receive comfort and understanding through a mutual exchange of experiences, strength and hope.  Sharing of similar problems binds individuals and groups together in a bond that is protected by a policy of anonymity.

AL-ANON IS NOT

a religious organization or a counseling agency.  It is not a treatment center nor is it allied with any other organization offering such services.  Al-Anon Family Groups, which includes Alateen for teenage members, neither express opinions on outside issues nor endorse outside enterprises.  No dues or fees are required.  Membership is voluntary, requiring only that one's own life has been adversely affected by someone else's drinking problem.

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