Hop aboard the Al-Anon Time Machine and travel back through 75 years of Al-Anon history to our beginnings in 1951!
Al-Anon began as a grassroots fellowship of families and friends of A.A. members. In 1951, Cofounders Lois W. and Anne B. launched the Clearing House, reaching out to 87 groups across the US, Canada, Australia, Ireland, and South Africa to unify the family groups. The Clearing House was more than a name; it was a lifeline of connection and hope.
That year saw the first P.O. box as well as the first pamphlet, the first use of the name Al‑Anon Family Groups, and the first Advisory Committee. In June 1951, the Family Forum, published at that time by Ruth G. and the Family Groups of San Francisco, and the A.A. Grapevine told subscribers around the world about the new Clearing House and encouraged them to get in touch.
Did you know? International outreach also began in 1951! And Stepping Stones, home of Lois and Bill W., served as a spiritual and organizational hub.
Whether you’ve been in Al-Anon for a day or decades, you are part of this legacy. Join us in celebrating 75 years by attending the World Service Office (WSO) Open House on Saturday, April 25, 2026, and visiting the WSO Archives for more stories and photos. Go to Al‑Anon’s 75th Anniversary event page for more information.
The Forum, March 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.