Based upon the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-Anon came into existence in 1951. Alateen, a related program for younger people who use the Al-Anon principles to recover from the effects of another's drinking, was formed six years later. Al-Anon and Alateen have spread around the world. Today, there are over 26,000 Al-Anon and Alateen groups in 115 countries. Each group has an average of 13 members.
Members come from a variety of backgrounds.
Al-Anon and Alateen groups can be found in nearly every community in the United States. While not a religious organization, Al-Anon does emphasize the importance of spiritual recovery based upon a higher power. It is only when they learn that the only one they can change is themselves that any real progress can be made. By practicing the Twelve Steps for recovery adapted from AA, members share their experience, strength, and hope, gradually emerging from the darkness the alcoholic has created. Underlying the Al-Anon program is the belief that alcoholism is a family disease and that changed attitudes can aid recovery.