As Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc. approaches its 75th anniversary, we celebrate the enduring impact of public outreach in bringing hope to families and friends of alcoholics. Even before our incorporation as a nonprofit in 1951, Al-Anon members shared the message—one conversation, one meeting, one piece of Conference Approved Literature (CAL) at a time.
Carrying the message is at the heart of our Twelfth Step. While members and groups share their recovery locally, the World Service Office (WSO) is entrusted with crafting outreach efforts for broader audiences. Over the decades, these efforts have evolved. Service tools, Public Service Announcements (PSAs) and social media presence have expanded our reach in ways once unimaginable—yet the message remains the same: help and hope are available.
A review of World Service Conference Summaries dating back to 1961 reflects the realization of our Cofounders’, Lois and Anne, vision for the WSO as a Clearing House and underscores the vital role of Public Outreach in the growth of the Al‑Anon/Alateen fellowship. Among the many milestones chronicled is the evolution of the publication Al-Anon Faces Alcoholism. Originally published as a book in 1965 to raise awareness of Al-Anon, it transformed in 2007 into a magazine distributed by members to professionals—helping them guide clients, patients, and students to Al-Anon or Alateen. This public outreach tool also serves as a bridge to those unfamiliar with our program, inviting them to discover the help and hope Al-Anon offers.
As we look ahead, let us recommit to carrying the message—one day, one person, one act of service at a time.
The Forum, December 2025
“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.