Look to the Past to Protect the Future—Al-Anon’s World Service Office archives “…It is so important to keep Al-Anon alive and to keep past growth as well as future growth.” Lois W., Al-Anon cofounder.
The mission of the Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc., Archives, at the World Service Office is to preserve, manage, and provide access to the materials accessioned. The World Service Office Archives is to be the protector of Al-Anon’s history. Documents, pamphlets, books, photographs, etc. that pertain to the history of the fellowship are preserved and protected.
The WSO Archives is the repository of the documented historical record of the Al-Anon fellowship. The historical record starts at the beginning of the movement and documents the milestones of growth towards the presence of the fellowship in countries around the world today. Special emphasis is placed on preserving the records of Al-Anon’s founders, early groups, beginning days of the Clearing House, and the organization of Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc.
Historic Overview
Historical Timelines
Why Digitize the Archives?
Our priority at the World Service Office (WSO) Archives is safeguarding Al-Anon’s physical artifacts and documents while making sure they remain accessible for use. A substantial portion of our physical collection has been
Discovering Our Collective Recovery through Archives
“You’re welcome to take pictures if you’d like,” the Human Resources Manager said as she guided me past the display cases in the lobby of Al‑Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc. “Many members do.”