AA and Al-Anon

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was founded in 1935 and is worldwide in its scope. It has a very respected record of success among recovering alcoholics. What follows is AA’s statement of purpose:

Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their
experiences, strength and hope with each other so that they may solve their
common problems and help others to recover from alcoholism.

The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are
no dues or fees for AA membership; we are self-supporting through our own
contributions. AA is not allied with any sect, denomination, political organization
or institution. AA does not wish engage in controversy and neither endorses or
opposes causes of any sort. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other
alcoholics to achieve sobriety.

Al-Anon is also a worldwide organization. It is meant to offer "a self-help recovery
program for the families and friends of alcoholics whether or not the alcoholic seeks help
or even recognizes the existence of a drinking problem.

Members give and receive comfort and understanding through a mutual exchange
of experience, strength, and hope. The sharing of similar problems connects
individuals and groups together in a bond that is protected by a policy of
anonymity.

Al-Anon is not a religious organization or a counseling agency. It is not a treatment center nor is it allied with any other organization offering such services. Al-Anon Family Groups, which include Alateen for teenage members, neither express opinions on outside issues nor endorse outside enterprises. No dues or fees are required. Membership is voluntary, requiring only that one's own life has been adversely affected by someone else's drinking problem.

Here is the Al-Anon website of Ohio.