I wasn’t sure what bothered me about electronic Al-Anon groups when I first started attending them. They were new and different to me, and with my camera off and a made-up name, I could be completely invisible. I could drop in and out when I felt like it, without considering any disruption I might cause or sharing in the responsibility of serving the group. This made me vaguely uncomfortable, but the convenience swept me off my feet: I could do some household tasks or “just listen in,” letting the other members carry the meeting.
Then I started comparing my participation in electronic meetings with my participation in face-to-face meetings. The difference was stark! When I realized how little effort I put into “attending” an electronic meeting, I decided to change the way I showed up. I started joining the meeting on time and making myself available to help ensure the meeting opened when it was supposed to and included helpful topics. I sat up straight, kept my camera on, and paid attention. I started doing my best to recognize that an Al-Anon group is an Al-Anon group; whether we meet in a hospital conference room, a church basement, or on an electronic platform, it still remains an Al-Anon group.
Now, when I attend an Al-Anon meeting online, I think about how I’m supporting the group and how that affects Al-Anon as a whole. Am I contributing by serving, sharing in leadership, and taking turns so as not to control? Do I contribute financially to the electronic “basket” even though the expenses for the electronic platform or welcome materials are not obvious to me? Do I encourage other members to participate in the group and share Al-Anon-related announcements? Do I participate in group business meetings to keep the group informed and vibrant?
When I first started attending Al-Anon, I had only three face-to-face weekly meetings to choose from in a 40-mile radius, no matter the weather or any unexpected obligations that came up. After all these insights, I’m more grateful than ever for the many ways I can find recovery in an Al-Anon group—whether in person or online, almost anytime.
By Christa A.
Group Services & Alateen Coordinator
The Forum, June 2026
“Inside Al-Anon Family Groups” presents news, policy, and commentary from volunteers, staff and readers sharing experience through service. Please feel free to reprint these articles on your service structure website or newsletter, along with this credit line: Reprinted with permission of Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc., Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA.
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