From Clearing House to WSO:
75 Years of Al‑Anon World Service
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In May 1951, Lois W., Anne B., and several other volunteers staffed the very first Al‑Anon Clearing House. They received mail from groups and typed letters in response.
Today, the Clearing House, now known as the World Service Office (WSO), receives phone calls, emails, direct messages, and yes, even mailed letters from groups and members around the world.
While technology has changed, our purpose remains the same: to serve the worldwide fellowship of Al‑Anon Family Groups, which includes Alateen, by sharing our collective experience, strength, and hope.
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2026 World Service Conference
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The 66th World Service Conference (WSC) will take place April 20‑24, 2026 in Newport News, Virginia, USA. The WSC is “Al‑Anon’s annual business meeting, which is attended by all Delegates from the World Service Conference Structure, representatives from other countries, members of the Board of Trustees and Executive Committee, voting members of the World Service Office (WSO) administrative Staff, and other WSO personnel. The Conference provides guidance to the WSO on service matters that are brought to its attention” (“World Service Handbook” section of the Al‑Anon/Alateen Service Manual [P‑24/27], page 141).
Each year, following the WSC, the WSO compiles a World Service Conference Summary that provides a full report of the proceedings. The 2026 Summary will be posted on al‑anon.org this summer. Meanwhile, consider taking a look at what has occurred at past WSCs. All Summaries, from 1961 through 2025, are available online.
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World Service Conference FAQs |
The World Service Conference (WSC) is Al‑Anon’s annual business meeting. Delegates, members of the Board of Trustees and Executive Committee, and designated World Service Office (WSO) Staff participate in developing policies that support Al‑Anon worldwide. While the Conference isn’t open to observers, an annual summary is available on the WSO website.
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“Some days, all I notice in my partner are the things that drive me crazy, even though he is sober. My nerves are on edge. It feels like the same tension repeating over and over. How do I interrupt this negative cycle?”
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New Topic for the Member Blog |
As Concept Four states, "Participation is the key to harmony." Participation marks a turning point—from isolation to belonging. By sharing our experience, strength, and hope, sponsoring others, or doing service, we not only strengthen our own recovery but also build meaningful connections. When we participate, we connect to something greater than ourselves.
April’s blog topic is: “How has participation been significant to your recovery?”
As always, you can also write about Al‑Anon’s three Legacies. This month features Step Four, Tradition Four, and Concept Four.
Sharings on the Member Blog may be used in future Al‑Anon publications.
New topics are being added each month!
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