The term “Equalized Expense” first appeared in a 1960 letter from Sue L., Chairperson of the Conference Committee. Sue’s letter described how Delegate expenses to the first World Service Conference (WSC) in 1961 would be funded. Because the Conference would benefit Al-Anon as a whole, it was felt that all groups would want to share in its financial support. That year, in addition to the biannual Appeal Letter, a Conference Appeal letter was mailed to help make this possible.
By 1963, the Conference Appeal letter had not been successful, and as the Conference grew, the Equalized Expense was no longer an appeal. The “World Service Handbook” notes, “The cost of the Conference is covered by the Delegates’ Equalized Expenses and the WSO General Fund.” It also reminds us that “all members reap the benefits of the Conference which makes the group conscience available and effective for worldwide Al‑Anon,” echoing Sue’s original message from 1960.
Today, the Finance Committee and the Board of Trustees review World Service Conference costs each year and, after careful consideration, set the Equalized Expense. This process ensures equity, shared responsibility, and the continued functioning of Al-Anon’s largest group conscience.
To learn more about how the World Service Conference is funded, see the “Delegates’ Equalized Expenses” portion of the “How the Conference Is Financed” section of the Al‑Anon/Alateen Service Manual (P-24/27).
The Forum, July 2026
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