Al-Anon Meetings

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Who can attend an Al-Anon meeting?

Anyone who believes that someone else's drinking bothers them is encouraged to attend any Al-Anon meeting listed. It is not necessary to believe that the person who drinks is an alcoholic, only that when he or she drinks, you react in a way that appears inappropriate. If someone else's drinking bothers you, Al-Anon is here to help.

Alateen is an Al-Anon program for children in the teen years. Alateen has one or more adult sponsors who assist the teens. Because the teens need a place that is confidential, adults who are not sponsors do not attend an Alateen meeting unless the group gives explicit permission for that person to attend. For these purposes, all Alateen meetings are labeled "closed". Any teen who qualifies in this manner may attend any Al-Anon meeting. For Alateen meeting information contact the Service Center either by phone: 315.471.0191 or email: contact@syracuseais.org

Many professionals in the medical, treatment, legal and judicial systems, students and others wish to learn how Al-Anon may help their clients. Many Al-Anon meetings are open to the public and anyone who wishes to learn about Al-Anon or Alateen may attend any "open" Al-Anon meeting.

Al-Anon meetings are "closed" unless otherwise noted.

Do I have to say anything at a meeting?

It is your choice to speak or not during the meetings. Newcomers are welcomed to meetings, usually provided with literature and a local meeting list, and invited to listen and learn. Some meetings offer beginners' meetings, specifically for newcomers. Members are available to answer questions before or after the meetings.

Will anyone say I've been there?

One of the Al-Anon program's basic principles is that of anonymity. Meetings are confidential, and we do not disclose whom we see or what we hear at meetings to anyone.

How much is this going to cost?

There are no dues or fees in Al-Anon and Alateen meetings. Most groups pass a basket for voluntary contributions. Members are asked to contribute what they can afford, so that the group can pay rent, provide literature, and offer support to local and worldwide service centers.