Al-Anon Family Group SA Celebrates 75th Birthday

As Al-Anon Family Groups marks its 75th anniversary this year, the organization reaffirms its longstanding commitment to supporting families and friends of loved ones struggling with alcoholism or Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD).

Since its founding in 1951, Al-Anon has grown into a global organization offering hope, healing, and community to those impacted by someone else’s drinking.

Alcohol’s Impact On Families And Communities

Alcohol remains one of the most used substances among adults, contributing to a wide range of family and social challenges.

While an exact global figure for families affected by AUD is unavailable, recent data indicates that millions of individuals live with AUD, meaning a vast but unquantifiable number of families are impacted.

“Alcoholism does not just affect the person drinking—it ripples through families, relationships, and communities. For 75 years, Al-Anon has provided a safe space for people to share their experiences, find understanding, and begin the journey toward recovery,” said Mona Dougherty, Senior Communications Specialist, Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc. USA.

Alcoholism is a family disease, affecting all those who have a relationship with a problem drinker.

Data from Al-Anon’s 2024 Membership Survey suggests that most Al-Anon members are affected by alcoholism spanning multiple generations.

They reported meaningful improvements in their overall quality of life through participation in the program.

Supporting Families Through Shared Experience

Al-Anon Family Groups, and Alateen for teenagers, is a mutual support program for people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking.

By sharing common experiences and applying the Al-Anon principles, families and friends of alcoholics can bring positive changes to their individual situations.

Today, more than 22,000 Al-Anon groups meet in over 140 countries, along with 1,100 Alateen groups.

Al-Anon literature is available in over 40 languages.

Al-Anon In South Africa

In South Africa, our first Al-Anon group started in Rondebosch in 1956.

Today, there are more than 100 Al-Anon/Alateen groups across the country.

Free And Confidential Support

Al-Anon Family Groups meetings are free to attend—there are no dues or fees.

The program is not affiliated with any outside organization or religion, and participation does not require adherence to any belief system.

Anonymity and confidentiality are fundamental principles, ensuring that every member can share openly in a safe and respectful environment.