How Al-Anon meetings work
In meetings we learn how to apply the principles of the Al-Anon program to change our lives. We use these principles to decrease the turmoil from alcohol-fueled discord. Talking things out with people who understand eases the pain.
Al-Anon uses a modified version of AA's Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions to guide our decisions. During meetings, when periods of silence occur, we have time for personal reflection. We avoid interrupting others and we refrain from giving advice.
Al-Anon meetings are both anonymous and confidential. What is said and who is seen in meetings is not carried outside the meeting. We are also careful to protect the anonymity of any AA members we might know.
There are no designated leaders because everyone shares as equals. Al-Anon has no religious affiliation. We are supported by member donations.
Al-Anon uses a modified version of AA's Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions to guide our decisions. During meetings, when periods of silence occur, we have time for personal reflection. We avoid interrupting others and we refrain from giving advice.
Al-Anon meetings are both anonymous and confidential. What is said and who is seen in meetings is not carried outside the meeting. We are also careful to protect the anonymity of any AA members we might know.
There are no designated leaders because everyone shares as equals. Al-Anon has no religious affiliation. We are supported by member donations.
Directory of Terms Used in Meeting Schedule
- In Person = group meets in-person at a physical location only; no virtual component
- Virtual = group currently meets electronically on Zoom
- Hybrid = a face-to-face meeting and a Zoom meeting at the same day and time with both connected
- Concurrent = was originally one meeting; now has a virtual meeting and a face-to-face meeting, which are not connected
- FAFO = Families and Friends Only (previously called "Closed Meeting"); friends and family of alcoholics welcome
- FFAOW = Families, Friends and Observers Welcome (previously called "Open Meeting"); friends and family of alcoholics welcome, and also students and professionals looking to observe a 12 Step Program meeting
Report Meeting Changes
Let us know if your meeting has any changes, such as:
- Changing format (virtual, in-person, hybrid, or concurrent)
- Holiday schedule changes
- Changing time, day, or location of meeting
- Permanently or temporarily closing a meeting
Frequently Asked Questions about Al-Anon Meetings
Have questions about Al-Anon or attending Al-Anon meetings? Check out these FAQ's. If you still have questions, contact us here.
Best Practices for Zoom Meetings
- In order to protect other members' anonymity, make sure you are in a private space so that people around you do not see or hear the meeting.
- Some meetings are specific to men, women and LGBTQA people. We ask that you honor their group conscience by not attending a meeting that you would not choose to attend in person.
- To protect your anonymity, use only your first name and last initial if you'd like. Rename yourself if necessary.
- Mute yourself when you are not talking to decrease background noise and avoid distracting from whoever is speaking.
- For others to see you, you'll need to use a device with a camera, such as a smartphone or computer. You can turn your camera on and off, and you may choose to keep your camera off and just use audio to communicate at the meeting. Please note, some groups may ask that you allow video for group safety.
- When moving around, turn your camera off so as not to distract from whoever is speaking.
Best Practices for Hosting a Zoom Meeting
Here is a guide for Zoom hosts with information about all the settings you can use to protect your Zoom meeting.
Questions? Contact Us.
Still have questions? Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch with us here.